Paper publication ratios by postgraduates based on theses and dissertations in Tehran University of Medical Sciences

Objective: The overview of postgraduate Theses and PhD Dissertations and the factors associated with their publishing is a subject, which has not been studied in recent years, especially in the field of medical sciences. The objective of this study was to find out the publishing trend by postgraduates based on their Theses or Dissertations. Methodology: In this cross-sectional study all Theses and doctorate Dissertations by postgraduates of Tehran University of Medical Sciences between 2001 and 2009 were taken to account. We collected the data using the computer files or directly from mentors, students and different databases such as Pub Med. Results: Findings showed that manuscripts from thirty per cent of the Master Theses, 76% of the PhD Dissertations were published. There was a relationship between the publishing of the Theses or Dissertations and the students’ subject of study, department, Theses or Dissertations grade, the first supervisors’ title, the second advisor’s title, and the number of supervisors and advisors. Conclusion: Since the factors associated with the publishing of papers based on Theses or Dissertations are specified, it is necessary to consider them by introducing more experienced supervisors or advisors to the students. In addition, preference to Theses/Dissertations with excellent grade and publications in indexed journals should be encouraged while interviewing PhD candidates.