Many researchers do thorough studies in order to complete a dissertation or thesis, but these studies may not always be published later as journal articles. It is important to search for dissertations/theses on your topic, especially as these studies can help you as you are designing your research study.
Open Access Dissertations/Theses
NDLTD's listing of International Open Access Dissertations and Theses resources
Need more help? See the guide to Dissertations and Theses in Libraries of UNC-Chapel Hill