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And to make it even more confusing, some institutions or departments will even use the terms differently!
But what are we all really talking about when we refer to a dissertation or a thesis? And does the term you use actually impact on what you actually end up writing?
This article covers the main differences between a dissertation and thesis, and how the terms may differ depending on the course, university and location.
A dissertation is a piece of academic writing centred around original research. In their dissertations, students review existing research but also build on this with unique hypotheses and approaches.
A dissertation can be used to disprove a previous theory or take existing theories and research in a new direction. It is a large research project that is usually completed at the end of the academic year.
Usually, a dissertation starts with a dissertation proposal , which is approved by a study supervisor. The student then completes the research and writes up the methodology , findings, evaluations and conclusions from the research.
Dissertations can be undertaken by both undergraduate and postgraduate students. At undergraduate level the word count is around 5,000 to 8,000 and at postgraduate level it is usually 10,000 to 15,000.
A thesis is an academic paper covering an in-depth review of existing research in a particular discipline. It will involve an academic argument, although it doesn’t usually require original research from the student. The existing research is used to support and evaluate the proposed argument.
A thesis is not usually required at undergraduate level and is more common at postgraduate level.
This large piece of written-up research is usually completed at the end of a masters degree. Some masters courses require a thesis to graduate.
The main purpose of a writing a dissertation is to add new findings to the existing literature in that field with original research. Whereas theses tend to evaluate existing findings, as their purpose is to demonstrate knowledge and skills within the course’s subject matter.
In terms of how long it takes to complete a thesis or dissertation project, a thesis is typically shorter than a dissertation since there are fewer original research aspects involved. This means that it will probably take less time. However, this can differ depending on the university and the course.
Dissertations sometimes require an oral presentation, known as a viva , where findings are showcased to academics who ask questions about the research. Theses usually do not require this.
The word ‘dissertation’ originates from the Latin word ‘dissertare’, meaning to continue to discuss and the Latin word ‘disserere’ which means to examine and discuss .
The word ‘thesis’ originally comes from the Greek word ‘tithenai’, which means to place or position. This later evolved into the Latin ‘thesis’, which had two meanings: an abstract question and to put something forward .
Although there are some key differences between a dissertation and a thesis, there are also similarities.
Though, the difficulty of a thesis or dissertation depends on your personal skill set. For instance, students that learn better by developing their own research ideas may find a dissertation easier than a thesis.
Difficulty can also depend on the level of the course. For instance, a thesis completed at doctorate level is likely to require more advanced knowledge than a thesis at undergraduate level.
The difficulty of either type of research project can also vary depending on the subject matter and the resources available to you.
Both dissertations and theses can be challenging, but don’t be put off by the thought of having to produce a larger body of work. Your supervisor will be there to support you.
The terms ‘dissertation’ and ‘thesis’ are sometimes used interchangeably, and the meanings can differ depending on the country and university.
There are plenty of differences between the variant forms of English, such as British English and American English. Around the world, different English-speaking countries use the words ‘dissertation’ and ‘thesis’ differently.
Generally, nations with British-based academic systems of university education use dissertation to refer to the body of work at the end of an undergraduate or masters level degree . British-based institutions generally use thesis to refer to the body of work produced at the end of a PhD .
In countries and institutions that are based on the American system of education, the words tend to be used in reverse. However, institutions and even different departments in the same university can use the words differently.
If you're in doubt, then stick with the way the university and department you're currently attending use the terms.
In the UK, the terms ‘dissertation’ and ‘thesis’ are generally applied equally across institutions and subjects.
However, in the US the meanings can differ between different subject areas. The term ‘thesis’ can be used to describe a piece of original research in US academia, whereas original research is usually referred to as a dissertation in the UK.
If you’re studying in the US , you may complete a thesis at masters level in another subject area that involves wide-ranging reading and understanding rather than original research and still call it a thesis.
With so much interchangeability between the two terms, it’s understandable that there is often confusion in the debate between a dissertation vs thesis, as there is no clear answer.
Always read specific course details to understand exactly what’s involved in the research project that you are required to produce.
Georgetown University in the US refers to a dissertation and a thesis as both adding to your 'field of knowledge' . The University of Edinburgh recommends that you refer to your individual course handbook for guides to dissertations, so each department will have their own guidelines to using the word dissertation and thesis. At University College London they refer to a thesis as the piece of work at the end of an EngD, MPhil, MD(Res) or PhD, which are all research degrees.
Ultimately, it doesn't really matter which word you use as both refer to a serious and lengthy piece of work where you can show what you have researched and understood as part of your postgraduate studies.
As long as you are referring to the piece of work that you are compiling in the same way as those in your department then you will avoid confusion.
It is important to check whether the research piece involves original research or expects you to build upon existing research.
Writing a dissertation or a thesis requires a substantial amount of planning and work and you don't want to let yourself down at the last hurdle with poor presentation of your work, so always keep an eye on your course or department guidelines.
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Undergraduate and graduate students often find themselves navigating the intricacies of higher education, including the requirement to complete a research project as part of their academic journey.
This can be a source of confusion, particularly when it comes to distinguishing between a dissertation and a thesis. While both terms are used interchangeably in some educational institutions, they actually have distinct meanings and purposes. Let's delve into the world of dissertations and theses, exploring their differences, purposes, and unique attributes.
What is a dissertation.
A dissertation is a research project that marks the culmination of a doctoral program. It requires students to conduct original research and contribute new knowledge to their field of study. Dissertations are typically longer and more comprehensive than theses, as they delve deep into a specific topic, often spanning several chapters.
When embarking on a dissertation, students are expected to choose a research topic that is both relevant and original. This topic should contribute to the existing body of knowledge in their field and address a gap in current research. To accomplish this, students must thoroughly review the existing literature and identify areas that require further investigation.
A thesis, on the other hand, is usually associated with a master's degree program. It is a research project that allows students to explore a particular topic in depth. Theses are generally shorter than dissertations, spanning fewer chapters. While they also require original research, the depth and scope may be narrower compared to a dissertation.
Similar to a dissertation, a thesis requires students to select a research topic and conduct a thorough literature review. However, due to the shorter length of a thesis, the literature review may not be as extensive as that of a dissertation. Nevertheless, it is still important for students to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the existing knowledge on their chosen topic.
Purpose and structure.
The primary difference between a dissertation and a thesis lies in their purpose and structure. A dissertation aims to contribute new knowledge to a specific field of study and is typically a more extensive and comprehensive project. It involves an in-depth exploration of a research problem or question, often requiring the collection and analysis of primary data. The structure of a dissertation usually includes multiple chapters, such as an introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion.
Furthermore, a dissertation often requires the student to engage in critical thinking, originality, and creativity to develop a unique contribution to the field. It may involve the development of new theories, models, or frameworks that can advance the understanding of a particular subject area.
Dissertations are known for their length and the depth of research they require. Doctoral candidates spend years conducting original research, analyzing data, and crafting comprehensive arguments. The research conducted for a dissertation is typically more extensive and rigorous compared to that of a thesis.
In addition, a dissertation often involves a thorough review of existing literature to establish a theoretical framework and identify research gaps. This review helps situate the research within the broader academic context and provides a foundation for the research design and methodology. The depth of research in a dissertation allows for a more comprehensive analysis and interpretation of the findings.
Another key difference between dissertations and theses is the level of education for which they are typically required. Dissertations are a common requirement for doctoral degrees, such as Ph.D. programs, while theses are more commonly associated with master's degree programs. The specific requirements for each project may vary across institutions and academic disciplines.
Doctoral candidates are expected to demonstrate a high level of expertise and mastery in their field of study. They are often required to defend their dissertation orally in front of a committee of experts in the field. This defense allows for a rigorous examination of the research, ensuring its validity and contribution to the field.
On the other hand, theses for master's degrees are usually shorter in length and may not require the same level of originality and depth of research as a dissertation. However, they still require students to demonstrate their ability to critically analyze existing literature, conduct research, and present their findings in a coherent and scholarly manner.
Factors to consider.
When deciding between a dissertation and a thesis, several factors should be taken into account. Firstly, consider your academic goals and the requirements of your degree program. If you aim to pursue a doctoral degree or a research career, a dissertation may be the most appropriate choice. However, if your goals are more focused on professional advancement or further specialization within your field, a thesis may suit your needs.
Reflect on your academic interests and aspirations, as well as the amount of time and resources you are willing to invest in your research project. Each option comes with its own set of challenges and expectations, so it is important to choose the path that aligns with your academic and career goals.
The dissertation process.
The dissertation process involves multiple stages, starting with the development of a research proposal. Doctoral candidates must conduct a literature review, outline their research methodology, collect and analyze data, and present their findings in a comprehensive written document. The final step typically involves defending the dissertation orally, where candidates must respond to questions and critique from a committee of experts in the field.
The thesis process follows a similar trajectory but on a smaller scale. Students will still need to develop a research proposal, conduct a literature review, collect and analyze data, and present their findings in a written document. The defense process for a thesis may involve an oral presentation or an examination by a committee, depending on the institution's requirements.
Guidance and support in the dissertation journey.
Dissertation advisors play a crucial role in guiding students through the research process. They provide valuable mentorship, offer insights into the field, and help refine research questions and methodologies. Advisor-advisee relationships are essential for the successful completion of a dissertation, as advisors provide ongoing feedback and support during the entire research journey.
Similarly, thesis advisors offer mentorship and guidance to students pursuing a master's degree. They help students refine their research topic, provide feedback on drafts, and ensure that the research project meets the required standards. Working closely with a knowledgeable advisor can significantly enhance a student's thesis experience and contribute to the overall success of the project.
Understanding the differences between dissertations and theses is essential for students embarking on their research journey. By considering their academic goals and evaluating the resources available, students can make an informed decision when choosing between a dissertation and a thesis. Additionally, the guidance and support provided by advisors throughout the process are invaluable and contribute to the successful completion of these significant research endeavors.
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Published on September 14, 2022 by Tegan George . Revised on April 16, 2024.
A thesis is a type of research paper based on your original research. It is usually submitted as the final step of a master’s program or a capstone to a bachelor’s degree.
Writing a thesis can be a daunting experience. Other than a dissertation , it is one of the longest pieces of writing students typically complete. It relies on your ability to conduct research from start to finish: choosing a relevant topic , crafting a proposal , designing your research , collecting data , developing a robust analysis, drawing strong conclusions , and writing concisely .
You can also download our full thesis template in the format of your choice below. Our template includes a ready-made table of contents , as well as guidance for what each chapter should include. It’s easy to make it your own, and can help you get started.
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Thesis vs. thesis statement, how to structure a thesis, acknowledgements or preface, list of figures and tables, list of abbreviations, introduction, literature review, methodology, reference list, proofreading and editing, defending your thesis, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about theses.
You may have heard the word thesis as a standalone term or as a component of academic writing called a thesis statement . Keep in mind that these are two very different things.
The final structure of your thesis depends on a variety of components, such as:
Humanities theses are often structured more like a longer-form essay . Just like in an essay, you build an argument to support a central thesis.
In both hard and social sciences, theses typically include an introduction , literature review , methodology section , results section , discussion section , and conclusion section . These are each presented in their own dedicated section or chapter. In some cases, you might want to add an appendix .
We’ve compiled a short list of thesis examples to help you get started.
The very first page of your thesis contains all necessary identifying information, including:
Sometimes the title page also includes your student ID, the name of your supervisor, or the university’s logo. Check out your university’s guidelines if you’re not sure.
Read more about title pages
The acknowledgements section is usually optional. Its main point is to allow you to thank everyone who helped you in your thesis journey, such as supervisors, friends, or family. You can also choose to write a preface , but it’s typically one or the other, not both.
Read more about acknowledgements Read more about prefaces
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An abstract is a short summary of your thesis. Usually a maximum of 300 words long, it’s should include brief descriptions of your research objectives , methods, results, and conclusions. Though it may seem short, it introduces your work to your audience, serving as a first impression of your thesis.
Read more about abstracts
A table of contents lists all of your sections, plus their corresponding page numbers and subheadings if you have them. This helps your reader seamlessly navigate your document.
Your table of contents should include all the major parts of your thesis. In particular, don’t forget the the appendices. If you used heading styles, it’s easy to generate an automatic table Microsoft Word.
Read more about tables of contents
While not mandatory, if you used a lot of tables and/or figures, it’s nice to include a list of them to help guide your reader. It’s also easy to generate one of these in Word: just use the “Insert Caption” feature.
Read more about lists of figures and tables
If you have used a lot of industry- or field-specific abbreviations in your thesis, you should include them in an alphabetized list of abbreviations . This way, your readers can easily look up any meanings they aren’t familiar with.
Read more about lists of abbreviations
Relatedly, if you find yourself using a lot of very specialized or field-specific terms that may not be familiar to your reader, consider including a glossary . Alphabetize the terms you want to include with a brief definition.
Read more about glossaries
An introduction sets up the topic, purpose, and relevance of your thesis, as well as expectations for your reader. This should:
In other words, your introduction should clearly and concisely show your reader the “what, why, and how” of your research.
Read more about introductions
A literature review helps you gain a robust understanding of any extant academic work on your topic, encompassing:
A literature review is not merely a summary of existing work. Rather, your literature review should ultimately lead to a clear justification for your own research, perhaps via:
Read more about literature reviews
Your literature review can often form the basis for your theoretical framework, but these are not the same thing. A theoretical framework defines and analyzes the concepts and theories that your research hinges on.
Read more about theoretical frameworks
Your methodology chapter shows your reader how you conducted your research. It should be written clearly and methodically, easily allowing your reader to critically assess the credibility of your argument. Furthermore, your methods section should convince your reader that your method was the best way to answer your research question.
A methodology section should generally include:
Read more about methodology sections
Your results section should highlight what your methodology discovered. These two sections work in tandem, but shouldn’t repeat each other. While your results section can include hypotheses or themes, don’t include any speculation or new arguments here.
Your results section should:
Additional data (like raw numbers or interview transcripts ) can be included as an appendix . You can include tables and figures, but only if they help the reader better understand your results.
Read more about results sections
Your discussion section is where you can interpret your results in detail. Did they meet your expectations? How well do they fit within the framework that you built? You can refer back to any relevant source material to situate your results within your field, but leave most of that analysis in your literature review.
For any unexpected results, offer explanations or alternative interpretations of your data.
Read more about discussion sections
Your thesis conclusion should concisely answer your main research question. It should leave your reader with an ultra-clear understanding of your central argument, and emphasize what your research specifically has contributed to your field.
Why does your research matter? What recommendations for future research do you have? Lastly, wrap up your work with any concluding remarks.
Read more about conclusions
In order to avoid plagiarism , don’t forget to include a full reference list at the end of your thesis, citing the sources that you used. Choose one citation style and follow it consistently throughout your thesis, taking note of the formatting requirements of each style.
Which style you choose is often set by your department or your field, but common styles include MLA , Chicago , and APA.
Create APA citations Create MLA citations
In order to stay clear and concise, your thesis should include the most essential information needed to answer your research question. However, chances are you have many contributing documents, like interview transcripts or survey questions . These can be added as appendices , to save space in the main body.
Read more about appendices
Once you’re done writing, the next part of your editing process begins. Leave plenty of time for proofreading and editing prior to submission. Nothing looks worse than grammar mistakes or sloppy spelling errors!
Consider using a professional thesis editing service or grammar checker to make sure your final project is perfect.
Once you’ve submitted your final product, it’s common practice to have a thesis defense, an oral component of your finished work. This is scheduled by your advisor or committee, and usually entails a presentation and Q&A session.
After your defense , your committee will meet to determine if you deserve any departmental honors or accolades. However, keep in mind that defenses are usually just a formality. If there are any serious issues with your work, these should be resolved with your advisor way before a defense.
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The conclusion of your thesis or dissertation shouldn’t take up more than 5–7% of your overall word count.
If you only used a few abbreviations in your thesis or dissertation , you don’t necessarily need to include a list of abbreviations .
If your abbreviations are numerous, or if you think they won’t be known to your audience, it’s never a bad idea to add one. They can also improve readability, minimizing confusion about abbreviations unfamiliar to your reader.
When you mention different chapters within your text, it’s considered best to use Roman numerals for most citation styles. However, the most important thing here is to remain consistent whenever using numbers in your dissertation .
A thesis or dissertation outline is one of the most critical first steps in your writing process. It helps you to lay out and organize your ideas and can provide you with a roadmap for deciding what kind of research you’d like to undertake.
Generally, an outline contains information on the different sections included in your thesis or dissertation , such as:
A thesis is typically written by students finishing up a bachelor’s or Master’s degree. Some educational institutions, particularly in the liberal arts, have mandatory theses, but they are often not mandatory to graduate from bachelor’s degrees. It is more common for a thesis to be a graduation requirement from a Master’s degree.
Even if not mandatory, you may want to consider writing a thesis if you:
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Embarking on an academic journey often involves deciphering the complexities of advanced research projects like dissertations and theses. While these terms might seem interchangeable, they possess distinctive changes in the world of higher education. A fundamental distinction between a thesis and a dissertation lies in their approach to research. A thesis typically involves synthesizing existing research and knowledge in your field, while a dissertation requires conducting original research, addressing research gaps, and making a substantive contribution to the academic domain.
As you continue your higher education journey in academia, it’s critical to decipher the fundamental differences between dissertation and thesis that set them apart.
A thesis is a long-term academic research paper that presents an in-depth review of existing research on a specific subject. It requires extensive research, data collection, analysis, and critical interpretation of the findings. Although some undergraduate programs may mandate a thesis, it is more commonly expected in postgraduate studies, such as upon completing a master’s degree .
A dissertation is a longer and more comprehensive research project based on original research. It’s a substantial piece of academic writing required for the completion of a doctoral degree . The dissertation is the culmination of years of research, study, and expertise, contributing valuable insights in a particular field of study.
Both theses and dissertations serve as culminating projects for program graduation, demanding a profound grasp of the research subject and analytical skills to substantiate findings. Despite these commonalities, significant differences set them apart. The key differences include:
The academic requirements for a doctoral dissertation are clearly defined hypotheses, a detailed methodology section, rigorous data analysis, and a critical discussion of the results in the context of existing literature.
In contrast, the requirements for a master’s thesis include a thorough literature review, methodology, data analysis, and a conclusion that summarizes the findings.
Research requirements are also more extensive for dissertations compared to theses, as they include conducting original experiments and studies.
The length of a dissertation or a thesis varies according to the topic and the method of analysis, or it can vary based on the departmental requirements. Usually, a master’s thesis is around 40-80 pages, sometimes up to 100 pages. A dissertation, however, is significantly longer, ranging from 100 to 300 pages and sometimes up to 400.
Dissertations and theses also vary on the level of complexity. While the thesis requires a thorough literature review and analysis of existing research, it’s less complex than a dissertation. Moreover, the original research is limited, contrary to dissertations involving extensive original research (experiments and studies).
The research objectives are an essential component that can guide the research project and highlight the specific goals to achieve. Moreover, they outline the grounds for pursuing a particular topic.
However, they can vary depending on the academic level and the nature of the research. In a master’s thesis, the research objectives usually focus on addressing specific research questions related to the chosen topic, to deepen the understanding of existing theories within the field of study. Contrarily, in a doctoral dissertation, the research objectives are broader and are formulated to address complex research gaps, propose new theories, and contribute to the academic field.
The timeframe depends on internal factors like the student’s work pace and personal circumstances and external factors like the complexity of the subject, availability of resources, and academic level. While we can’t give a definitive answer, it usually takes a couple of semesters or 1-2 years to complete a master’s thesis. On the contrary, a doctoral dissertation is more time-consuming and can take 4-7 years to complete.
Although there are many similarities between the milestones for completing a thesis and a dissertation, such as topic selection, literature review, and data collection, their differences lie in the higher complexity of doctoral dissertations, including original research, review by the advisory committee, and publication.
The review and approval process is vital to evaluate the quality of research, analysis, and presentation. Although the overall process is similar for both a master’s thesis and a doctoral dissertation, the scrutiny applied to dissertations is notably more rigorous. For a master’s thesis, a committee of professors or advisors within the university’s department evaluates the thesis for adherence to academic standards, clarity, and coherence. Following the review, approval is granted to the thesis if the evaluators are content with the student’s work. On the other hand, for a doctoral dissertation, the review process includes a committee of experts in the field, often external reviewers, to assess the dissertation’s quality, methodology, and contribution to the academic field. The approval process is more challenging as it may require defending the dissertation orally and answering questions from the committee members and to a broader audience than a master’s thesis presentation.
Lastly, one of the main differences between a dissertation and a thesis is the potential for publication. As the dissertation is more extensive and requires original research contributing to the academic field, theses are less likely to be published in a peer-reviewed journal. Although a master’s thesis is more narrowly focused, it can still be published as a single article. In contrast, a doctoral dissertation is generally equivalent to at least three articles.
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While both require extensive research and dedication, the thesis has a narrower scope on a specific topic within the field of study. It aims to illustrate the student’s mastery of the subject matter, ability to synthesize existing research, and ability to present coherent arguments. On the other hand, the dissertation has a broader scope , encompassing a comprehensive analysis of a complex research problem or exploring interconnected topics in the field. It aims to showcase the student’s expertise and ability to conduct original and independent research and contribute new knowledge in the field.
As we draw the curtain in exploring the factors that differentiate a thesis and a dissertation, it becomes evident that both academic endeavors are crucial in unraveling discoveries. A master’s thesis showcases analytical finesse and a deep understanding of existing theories. And a doctoral dissertation displays new groundbreaking insights, original research, and innovative methodologies. Therefore, while they may have substantial differences, they remain a driving force in shaping the future of academia.
While many factors differentiate a dissertation and a thesis, the main difference is their academic level. A thesis is usually required at the end of a master’s degree program. In contrast, a dissertation is necessary to complete a doctoral degree.
The time it takes to complete a thesis or a dissertation depends on the complexity of the research, the availability of resources, and the student’s work pace. Usually, it takes a couple of semesters to complete a thesis at the end of a master’s program. In contrast, completing a doctoral dissertation can take four to seven years.
Although a thesis requires a significant amount of research literature review and analysis of existing studies, a dissertation demands a higher level of original research through identifying research gaps, developing new hypotheses, conducting experiments, and collecting and analyzing data.
Yes, there are specific publication and accessibility differences between dissertations and theses. Doctoral dissertations are usually published and made public through university libraries or digital repositories. Whereas a master’s thesis is less frequently published in academic journals compared to doctoral dissertations. Theses are often made available within the university’s library or department.
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Thesis and dissertation are extensive research papers that differ in terms of their requirements, length, and purpose, with the former being associated with a master's degree and the latter with a doctoral degree, but are often used interchangeably.
Updated on September 15, 2023
A thesis and a dissertation are both extensive research papers, and both require literature searches and novel findings, but the two differ in various ways. Their definitions also differ across regions. Typically, in North America, a thesis is required for the completion of a master’s degree, while a dissertation is required for the completion of a doctoral degree. The former is long, while the latter is longer and more intensive.
Despite these differences, the two terms are often used interchangeably, especially among those who haven’t completed one or the other. Here, we’ll compare the components, length, and purpose of these two academic documents to clearly understand the differences between these important papers in the life of a graduate student.
The term “thesis” explained here is generally consistent with how the word is used in North America to describe this substantive research paper.
A thesis is an extended argument (PDF). It is a research-based document that displays the student’s/author’s knowledge and understanding of a specific subject within their field of study. It generally presents findings on a particular topic.
See this and this (PDFs) for examples. These superb master’s theses from Canada will give you an idea of the size and format of these papers.
You generally write a thesis if you’re undertaking a research-oriented master's degree program (as opposed to a practical program, which may require a capstone, internship, exam, etc.).
The thesis is the essential part of a program’s research component, demonstrating the student's ability to critically analyze the literature and complete independent research. The process of writing a thesis involves exploring a specific research question, conducting a comprehensive literature review, collecting and analyzing data, and presenting findings in a structured and cohesive way.
A thesis' specific requirements and expectations differ depending on the academic institution, department, and program.
A thesis is typically presented in chapters. How many chapters will vary, but a common structure is:
Within that structure, and in addition to those parts, a thesis may also include:
This is also viewed from a North American perspective, where a dissertation is usually the main research work toward completing a research-based doctoral program.
A dissertation is a comprehensive and in-depth research project completed as part of the requirements for a doctoral degree. It’s a substantial piece of original work that contributes new knowledge to a specific field of study. Naturally, when it’s completed as the major requirement for earning a PhD, it’s longer, more detailed, and the expectations are higher.
Dissertations themselves can add to the literature in the field. For this reason, some students choose to publish them and have them indexed. The research and the data acquired while working on a dissertation can potentially lead to more publications and help define the researcher’s growing area of expertise.
See this and this (PDFs) top-ranking dissertation on ProQuest for good examples.
Completion and defense of a dissertation is a standard requirement for doctoral students to earn a PhD or another doctorate such as an EdD or DM. But some specialized degrees, such as a PsyD (Doctor of Psychology), JD (Juris Doctor) or DPT (Doctor of Physical Therapy) may have practice-based requirements in place of a research project, as these courses of study are geared more toward practical application.
A dissertation’s components are generally the same as those of a thesis. You can look at the list above for a thesis to see what typically goes into a dissertation. But, if compared with a master’s thesis, most aspects are longer and more rigorous.
The word count requirements for theses can vary significantly, but doctoral dissertations often range 40,000–80,000 words or, per Harvard , 100–300 pages.
As already touched on, the key differences are in where the two documents are used, length, and rigor. There are also regional differences.
A thesis typically demonstrates a master’s degree program student's grasp and presentation of a specific subject in their field of study. It normally involves a literature review, data analysis, and original research, but it is usually shorter and less comprehensive than a dissertation. The standards for rigor and novelty may also be lower.
A dissertation requires more extensive research, original contributions to the field, and a deeper exploration of the research topic. A dissertation is typically the output associated with a doctoral degree program.
The main differences in structure between a thesis and a dissertation are in the scope and complexity.
The word count requirement for theses and dissertations can vary depending on the institution and program.
A thesis is usually 20,000–40,000 words. However, there have been cases of mathematics dissertations that were only a few pages long!
Doctoral dissertations may range 60,000 to upward of 100,000 words, and exceed 100 pages. Many universities, however, seek around 80,000 words.
A thesis may simply be submitted to the student's instructor, though rigorous thesis programs require a committee and defense. A dissertation will nearly always require the student to choose a chair, a committee, and then go through a more rigorous defense and revision (if necessary).
The terms' use varies among (and even within) countries. Here are some general regional differences:
In the United Kingdom, a thesis is commonly associated with both master's and doctoral degree programs. For example, the University College London refers to a thesis for EngD, MPhil, MD(Res), and PhD degrees. At the University of Nottingham , a dissertation is written for a research master’s degree.
In Australia and New Zealand , “thesis” is generally used to refer to a substantial research project completed for a higher degree, though not limited to a master’s (you’ll find ample references to a “PhD thesis”).
In Latin American countries, the thesis is commonly used to refer to both master's and doctoral research projects.
Both theses and dissertations are necessary documents for students in graduate programs. Despite the differences in expectations, and even in definitions of these papers, the student-author must do a diligent and rigorous job to earn their degree.
Here are a few helpful resources if you want to get into greater detail:
Whether you’re submitting a thesis or a dissertation, if it’s in English, it should:
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Dissertation vs thesis! What are you writing?
Table of Contents
Many graduate students from universities in Canada often get confused and mix both terms. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they carry distinct meanings and purposes in academia. Read this blog to fully understand the difference between a thesis and a dissertation.
A dissertation is a substantial piece of academic writing typically required to complete a doctoral degree (such as a Ph.D.). It represents an original and significant contribution to the field of study and is usually the culmination of several years of research and study.
A thesis is a scholarly piece of writing, usually at the master’s or undergraduate level, that presents an original research question, methodology, and findings. It represents the culmination of a student’s academic work and demonstrates their ability to contribute to the field of study.
The history of the thesis and dissertation dates back several centuries, and the evolution of these academic documents reflects changes in scholarly practices, educational systems, and the expectations of advanced degree programs.
The concept of a scholarly thesis has roots in medieval universities. In the 12th and 13th centuries, institutions like the University of Paris introduced the practice of disputations, where students defended their theses in a public forum. These early theses were often theological or philosophical in nature.
During the Renaissance, the practice of defending theses continued to evolve. The 16th and 17th centuries saw an increasing emphasis on empirical observation and scientific inquiry. The thesis became more diverse, covering topics in natural philosophy, mathematics, and other emerging disciplines.
The 18th century marked the formalization of the thesis as a requirement for academic degrees. Universities started to mandate the submission of a written document along with the oral defence. This practice became more standardized in the 19th century as universities across Europe and North America adopted similar academic norms.
The term “dissertation” has its roots in the Latin word “dissertatio,” meaning “discussion.” Dissertations, as we understand them today, emerged in the 19th century, primarily in German universities. Doctoral candidates were required to produce substantial research demonstrating their ability to contribute original knowledge to their field.
The 20th century saw a global expansion of higher education and an increase in the number of doctoral programs. The thesis and dissertation became integral components of graduate education worldwide. The structure, format (eg, APA or MLA ), and expectations for these documents varied among disciplines and institutions.
With the advent of digital technology in the late 20th century, there was a shift toward electronic submission of theses and dissertations. This made research papers more accessible and facilitated the dissemination of knowledge. Many universities now require the submission of ETDs.
In the 21st century, the thesis and dissertation continue to evolve. Educational institutions are adapting to new forms of scholarship , interdisciplinary research, and varied modes of dissemination. The focus is often on producing high-quality, original research that contributes significantly to the academic community.
|
|
|
| Master's Program | Doctoral Program |
| Typically 50-100 pages | Often exceeds 100 pages, can be much longer |
| More focused on a specific aspect of a broader topic | Broader in scope, aims for a significant and original contribution to the field |
| Demonstrates mastery of subject matter and ability to conduct independent research within a defined scope | Makes an original and substantial contribution to the field, addressing gaps in existing literature |
| Often required for completion of a master's degree | Essential for the completion of a doctoral degree |
| In-depth research, but may not be as exhaustive as a dissertation | Extensive and exhaustive research, involving a comprehensive exploration of the chosen topic |
| Master's programs in various disciplines | Doctoral programs, especially in research-focused disciplines |
One of the key differences between a thesis vs dissertation lies in their length and depth of research:
Theses are typically shorter in length, ranging from 50 to 100 pages, depending on the institution and program requirements. The research conducted for a thesis is expected to contribute to the existing literature but may not need to be as exhaustive as that of a dissertation.
Dissertations, being the pinnacle of doctoral research, are substantially longer, often exceeding 100 pages and sometimes reaching several hundred pages. Doctoral candidates are expected to delve deeply into their chosen topic, conducting extensive research and offering a unique contribution to the academic community.
Another significant distinction between a dissertation vs thesis is the scope and purpose of the research:
The primary goal of a thesis is to demonstrate a student’s understanding of the subject and their ability to conduct independent research within a defined scope. A thesis is often more focused and may be an exploration or analysis of a specific aspect of a broader topic. For example, a finance thesis could be about any topic within the subject.
Dissertations, being doctoral-level projects, have a broader scope. Doctoral candidates are expected to make an original and substantial contribution to the field, advancing existing knowledge and addressing gaps in the current literature. Dissertations often involve more extensive data collection, analysis, and synthesis of information.
While there are distinct differences between a thesis vs dissertation, they also share several similarities, reflecting their common purpose within academic research papers . Here are some key similarities between a dissertation and a thesis.
Both dissertations and theses involve original research and scholarly inquiry. Students are expected to engage in a systematic investigation of a chosen topic, demonstrate a deep understanding of existing literature, and contribute new knowledge or insights to their field.
Both documents adhere to high standards of academic rigour and integrity. They require meticulous attention to detail, adherence to citation and referencing styles, and a commitment to intellectual honesty.
Dissertations and theses typically follow a formal structure, including elements such as a thesis statement , an introduction, a literature review, methodology, results, a discussion, and a conclusion. This structured format ensures a comprehensive presentation of the research.
In both cases, students work closely with faculty advisors or mentors throughout the research process. Advisors guide research design, literature review, data analysis, and other aspects of the project.
A commonality between dissertations and theses is the requirement for an oral defence. In many academic institutions, students must defend their research findings before a committee of faculty members. This defence allows students to articulate their research methods, results, and conclusions, while also responding to questions and critiques.
Both a thesis and a dissertation serve as a crucial component for the completion of an academic degree. Thesis is typically associated with master’s programs, while dissertations are a requirement for doctoral degrees. In both cases, successfully completing the research project is essential for obtaining the respective degrees.
Whether a thesis or a dissertation, the primary goal is to contribute to the existing body of knowledge in a particular field. Both documents aim to advance understanding, address gaps in the literature, and offer meaningful insights that can inform future research.
A comprehensive literature review is a common element in both dissertations and theses. This section provides context for the research by summarizing and critiquing relevant scholarly works, helping establish the rationale and significance of the study.
What is the difference between a dissertation and a thesis.
A thesis is a shorter, master’s-level research document demonstrating mastery of a subject. A dissertation, typically for a doctoral degree, is longer and requires a more extensive, original contribution to the field.
A master’s thesis is a shorter research document showcasing mastery of a specific subject. A dissertation, associated with a doctoral degree, is more extensive, requiring a substantial, original contribution to the field.
No, a thesis and a dissertation are not the same. A thesis is a research document associated with a master’s degree, demonstrating mastery of a subject. A dissertation is a more extensive research document required for a doctoral degree, emphasizing original contribution to the field.
There are several online sources that can help you in finding the perfect thesis and dissertation for your research. ResearchProspect Canada is one of the leading and trustworthy brands, helping students achieve academic excellence.
An Electronic Thesis and Dissertation (ETD) is a digital version of a student’s thesis or dissertation. It is submitted and stored electronically, allowing easy access, distribution, and archiving, reflecting the shift towards digital formats in academia.
To cite theses and dissertations, follow the citation style specified by your academic institution or the preferred style guide (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago). Include author, title, publication year, institution, and retrieval information for online sources, ensuring consistency and accuracy.
To cite a ProQuest dissertation or thesis in APA format, use the following template: Author, A. A. (Year). Title of dissertation/thesis (Publication No.). ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global. Include the ProQuest publication number for online sources.
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If you plan to pursue an advanced degree, you may be wondering about the differences between dissertation vs. thesis projects.
Most candidates in master’s or PhD programs are required to complete a final project in the form of a thesis or dissertation before graduating.
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Because both a master’s thesis and a doctoral dissertation consist of in-depth research, analysis, and writing, some people use the terms interchangeably. They are separate assignments, though, that are completed at different stages in a student’s academic journey.
Students enrolled in masters degree programs typically write a thesis, whereas doctoral students complete a dissertation.
Although these projects are both research-based and are usually required for graduation, they have different lengths, requirements, and timeframes. Knowing how to distinguish between them is vital for anyone hoping to attend graduate school.
A thesis is a scholarly paper that many students write before completing their master’s programs. Most graduate schools require students to submit a thesis that reflects the breadth and depth of their knowledge of the field and demonstrates their advanced research skills.
To create a thesis, students begin by selecting a topic of interest and conducting extensive research in that area. That information serves as the basis for a lengthy paper that describes the student’s position on the subject and presents evidence proving their assertion. Although it’s not common, some undergraduate schools also require students to write a short thesis.
A dissertation is a doctoral-level project that is a standard feature of PhD programs. When completing a dissertation, a student will conduct original or expanded research that can contribute to their field and solidify their status as a scholar.
So, what’s a dissertation and how long does it take to write one? Dissertations are often hundreds of pages in length and are completed over several years. They reflect that a student not only understands the current state of the field but also has a unique approach to the subject matter. After writing a dissertation, a student must defend it to a committee and faculty chair, who determine whether it is acceptable.
A number of universities now offer doctorate programs without dissertations but have a capstone project for completion. Common programs are DBA degrees or doctoral programs in education with no dissertation online or on campus.
A dissertation and thesis are distinct in important ways, including:
The difference between dissertation and thesis projects depends on where you’re studying. For instance, in the United Kingdom, master’s students complete a dissertation, and PhD students write a doctoral thesis.
Much like the similarity between a dissertation vs. capstone , a thesis is usually accomplished as a partial requirement for an academic degree. A thesis and a dissertation usually share these common features:
If you intend to complete a doctoral dissertation, you may have the opportunity to expand on the research from your master’s thesis or select a new area of interest.
There may be a difference between a thesis and a dissertation in terms of when students complete them, how long they are, and what type of research they involve, but they are both beneficial academically and professionally.
These projects provide students with an opportunity to gain expertise in their fields and prepare for their careers. Graduates also sometimes publish their work as journal articles or books. Having a record of publications may strengthen your candidacy for future positions. Writing a dissertation or thesis is challenging, but it can be a valuable experience.
You can take the next step in your educational journey today by researching accredited master’s and PhD programs.
No matter the location or timing of your pursuit for a master's or doctoral degree, you'll probably need to undertake either a thesis or a dissertation. The primary distinction lies in the academic level of these requirements: a thesis is typically completed for a master's degree, whereas a dissertation is pursued for a doctoral degree.
Feeling stumped? Check out our comprehensive guide to know the distinctions between a dissertation and a thesis! Delve into their purpose, structure, and requirements. We’ll also clarify common questions and misconceptions along the way.
Our goal is to show how these two differ in scope, depth of research, and academic contexts, particularly across different regions like the United States and beyond. Our team offers expert insights to empower you on your academic journey.
Both can be daunting, so we’re ready with helping hands. Whether you're tackling a master's thesis or a doctoral dissertation, we're here to provide the support you need to succeed in your scholarly endeavors.
The primary distinction between a thesis and a dissertation lies in the degree they're aimed at: a thesis is typically required for a master's program, while a dissertation is necessary for a doctoral degree. The prospect of conducting extensive research and writing a substantial paper might seem daunting, but it's a manageable and rewarding part of your academic journey.
In the academic world, a thesis and a dissertation have different roles, not just in timing but in purpose too. Picture a thesis as the final lap of your master's degree journey, where you showcase your understanding of what you've learned. On the other hand, a dissertation is an ultimate challenge in your struggle to get a doctorate. It's your chance to pioneer new ideas and theories.
In simpler terms, a thesis is akin to following a recipe, where you compile existing knowledge to demonstrate your mastery, much like copying a tried-and-tested dish. Meanwhile, a dissertation is like crafting a completely new dish, requiring innovation and creativity to contribute fresh insights and theories to your field.
It's your chance to concoct something entirely novel and defend its value, similar to creating a unique culinary masterpiece from scratch. So, whether you're wrapping up your master's degree or a doctoral degree, think of this writing challenge as the opportunity to create something truly original, innovative, and impactful.
A master's thesis mirrors the familiar research papers from undergrad, where you delve into a topic, analyze findings, and showcase critical thinking skills. It's an opportunity to deepen your understanding of a specialized area while demonstrating your expertise.
Conversely, a doctoral dissertation is a monumental endeavor, focusing on your original hypothesis or concept, with the bulk of content attributed to you. While a thesis typically spans around 100 pages, a dissertation is far more extensive.
An expert dissertation writing service notes that it is often two to three times longer, encompassing exhaustive research and intricate details. Despite differing lengths, both projects offer valuable academic growth under the guidance of a faculty adviser.
Feature | Dissertation | Thesis |
---|---|---|
Purpose | To demonstrate original research and contribute new knowledge to the field. | To showcase the understanding of existing research and apply it to a specific question. |
Degree Level | Doctoral (PhD) | Master's |
Scope | Extensive, aiming to add to the academic field with original research. | More limited, focusing on synthesizing and analyzing existing research. |
Length | Often longer, sometimes over 200 pages. | Typically shorter than a dissertation, usually under 100 pages. |
Research Depth | Requires original research that provides new insights into the field. | Involves deep research but mainly revolves around existing knowledge. |
Advisory Committee | Generally involves a larger committee for guidance and evaluation. | Usually has a smaller committee focused on guiding the student's research. |
Defense | Public defense of research is common, involving detailed questioning. | Defense may be required but is typically less extensive than a dissertation. |
Outcome | Contributes new knowledge or theories to the field. | Demonstrates mastery of the subject area and research methodologies. |
Masteral and doctoral thesis vs dissertation can be puzzling. All share several similarities, contributing to the confusion surrounding them. They are substantial research projects undertaken by students to fulfill academic requirements for advanced degrees. They demand the following:
Moreover, these projects involve rigorous research methodology that follows the guidance of faculty and adheres to academic standards. Furthermore, they both conclude with a final oral defense to evaluate the student’s understanding and expertise in the subject matter. These resemblances frequently blur the lines, causing bewilderment and confusion.
Is it a master's thesis, PhD thesis or dissertation? It can be very confusing since the names may vary depending on where you’re from. You'll hear about "dissertations" and "theses" in school, as they are major independent research projects needed to finish a doctoral degree program.
However, the two terms are used differently based on where you are. At times, "dissertation" might encompass both master's and doctoral levels, while "thesis" is solely for master's degrees.
Conversely, in some cases, "thesis" pertains to doctoral research, with "dissertation" reserved for master's studies. Confusing, right? But knowing these differences is key for understanding what's expected in your academic journey, wherever you may be!
Let’s settle the conundrum between dissertation and thesis. In the U.S., a thesis represents a preliminary degree, typically for a bachelor’s or master’s degree, emphasizing technical expertise rather than original research.
For example, a communication undergrad will need a thesis, while engineering students often pursue master’s degrees and master's thesis. In fields like Chemistry that require a direct path to a doctorate, students need dissertations to complete a PhD. In former colonies and countries with American influence, they also follow these labels.
And since the world is a global village, it’s also important to take note what is the difference between a thesis and a dissertation in Europe. In this region, including former colonies (e.g., Great Britain and Hong Kong), a doctoral thesis signifies original research for a PhD.
Therefore, completing a PhD program necessitates a thesis. Conversely, a dissertation represents the culmination of earning a bachelor's or master's degree. The word dissertation also forms part of broader postgraduate research.
Experts from a thesis writing service explained that when you write this document, you gather existing knowledge to build a strong argument. You do so to show expertise in a specific area.
On the other hand, tackling a dissertation means conducting your own research to bring new ideas or theories to the table.
While both demand thorough research and critical thinking, a thesis focuses on summarizing and analyzing existing information. Conversely, a dissertation aims to innovate and contribute new knowledge. So, your approach to a thesis involves organizing existing information, while with a dissertation, it involves exploring new ideas through primary research.
You must always remember the difference between a thesis and dissertation before planning your work. More importantly, keep in mind that you need proper preparation because both need a lot of time and hard work, no matter what country you’re in or what term you use.
Moreover, remember that the evolving nature of the thesis and dissertation entails extensive background research with a focus on original contributions and plagiarism-free work. Any written output must reflect the changing demands of academic scholarship and research.
No matter the term–dissertation vs thesis– academic institutions recognize how labor-intensive these works are. After all, these endeavors are significant because they shape scholarly pursuits and advance knowledge.
Organize your thoughts systematically, write progressively, understand what examiners seek, substantiate personal insights with evidence, gain insights from peers, ensure logical coherence and clarity, seek constructive feedback, and meticulously proofread your work for perfection.
Wondering how to write a dissertation or thesis? It doesn’t matter what scholarly work you’re writing. Avoid burning the midnight oil and prevent panic by following these tips:
The time frame varies but typically ranges from several months to a few years. The duration is influenced also by factors like:
It's essential to consult with your academic advisor to establish a realistic timeline for completion.
I’m ready to write my thesis , but don’t understand the difference between thesis and dissertation. Let’s break it down. A dissertation is usually for a doctoral degree, where you dive deep into original research, while a thesis is often for a master's degree, where you gather and analyze existing information.
You can think of it as making a new discovery versus summarizing what's already known in your field. But, of course, take a look at your geographic location to ascertain which term is acceptable for your programs and degree level.
Yes, seeking help from a service like ours is common and acceptable, especially if you feel confused about dissertation vs thesis. It can provide valuable guidance, especially when navigating complex academic requirements.
However, maintain academic integrity by acknowledging assistance appropriately and contributing substantially to the work.
Any research paper or literature review writing for a graduate student or doctoral students is complex. This is the perfect time to remember seeking help is never a sign of weakness.
When stressing over PhD thesis vs dissertation, consider professional help. Seek recommendations from peers or faculty, read reviews, assess sample work, and inquire about credentials and guarantees. Additionally, ensure transparency in pricing and communication.
Any graduate student or a doctoral programs student with a dissertation defense coming soon can utilize research paper writing help. A PhD dissertation is a major project that combs through existing research and creates a sturdy dissertation defense - all of which are challenging and may require a helping hand.
The academic world is filled with many different types of writing assignments, each with its own unique set of requirements and expectations. One common source of confusion for students is the distinction between a thesis and a dissertation. Both are long-form academic works, but there are several key differences between the two that are important to understand.
In Shakespeare’s day, a candidate for a master’s degree would write a thesis, an original paper in which he maintained a certain proposition. Whereas, completion of a doctoral program required submission and defense of a dissertation. He would read his thesis to his committee, after which he sat in silence while two faculty members gave point-by-point refutations of everything the candidate said.
The focus here was on the student’s ideas and his ability to arrange and express them clearly. If a student wished to advance further in academia he could pursue a dissertation. This was more of a literature review . He would read widely in a particular area and write up his findings, discussing the various authorities and their opinions. The point was to demonstrate that he was well-versed in the literature of the field. While the confusion between the two terms is understandable, we shall tackle the dissertation vs. thesis topic in this article and provide unambiguous insights on it.
Table of Contents
A thesis is a critically written scholarly piece of research work. Typically, it is submitted by students graduating from a master’s program. The purpose of a thesis is to allow students to showcase their knowledge and expertise within the subject matter they have been studying as part of the program.
A dissertation is a comparatively lengthier piece of scholarly writing that accounts for your research work throughout the doctoral program. A researcher earns the Ph.D. after submitting and defending his/her dissertation. It includes all information about the original research or expanded research on a new or existing topic conducted by the Ph.D. candidate.
In Europe, the original distinction between a thesis and a dissertation has been largely retained. A doctoral thesis is a focused piece of original research that is performed to obtain a Ph.D. A dissertation is part of a broader post-graduate research project.
However, the thesis has evolved since original research nowadays requires plenty of background research . So, a thesis will contain extensive citations and references to earlier work, although the focus remains on the original work that comes out of it.
In the United States, the definition of a thesis is almost the opposite of that in Europe. Because a thesis is shorter than a dissertation it gradually came to mean a preliminary degree on the way to a doctorate. A thesis is now performed to earn a Master’s degree. In scientific fields, a master’s candidate takes advanced coursework and gains hands-on experience in a research project but does not direct the project to the same extent that he would in a doctoral program. In a master’s project, the student’s ideas are welcomed and expected but the focus is on obtaining technical expertise, not doing original research. Engineering students commonly obtain Master’s degrees and seldom go on to get PhDs. In other fields such as Chemistry, the opposite is true, with a Master’s degree no longer being required as the first step for a doctorate. Almost everyone I know who received a Master’s degree in Chemistry got one because they dropped out of graduate school and wrote their truncated research as a Master’s project.
Needless to say, the dissertation vs. thesis facts are real. Therefore, using one term instead of another is not acceptable as an academic. One must remember the purpose of each and use them accordingly. However, one is not undermined by the other. Whether you are writing a thesis or a dissertation, both must be done with the same seriousness. Both require critical technical and soft skills. Improving your time management and academic writing skills plays a major role in acing both forms of scholarly writing.
How do you decipher dissertation vs. thesis? Should the interchanged usage of these terms be acceptable? How is your approach to writing a thesis different from that of a dissertation? What are the other differences associated with the thesis and dissertation? Let us know in the comments section below!
"Dissertation" and "thesis" are used interchangeably but differ in: Academic Level: Thesis for master's, dissertation for doctoral degrees (US). Scope and Depth: Thesis shorter, demonstrates mastery; dissertation extensive, original research. Originality: Thesis may involve original analysis; dissertation presents significant new insights. Time and Effort: Dissertations require more resources and time than theses.
The length of a dissertation varies depending on factors like academic discipline, research topic, institution, and country. Generally, dissertations are longer than theses, ranging from 10,000 to over 100,000 words. However, word count alone does not reflect the quality or depth of the research. Guidelines from the academic institution should be consulted for specific requirements.
The length of a thesis varies depending on factors like academic discipline, research topic, institution, and country. Generally, the word count ranges from around 10,000 to 50,000 words. Specific guidelines from the academic institution should be consulted for precise requirements.
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Home » Dissertation vs Thesis – Key Differences
“Dissertation” and “ thesis ” are often used interchangeably, but there are some differences between them, depending on the context and country in which they are used. Here is a brief overview of their differences:
In the United States and Canada, a thesis is usually associated with a master’s degree, while a dissertation is associated with a doctoral degree. A thesis involves original research and is usually shorter than a dissertation, with a typical length of 50-100 pages. A dissertation, on the other hand, is a longer piece of original research, with a typical length of 100-300 pages or more.
In the United Kingdom, the opposite is true: a thesis is usually associated with a doctoral degree, while a dissertation is associated with a master’s degree. However, the terms are sometimes used interchangeably.
In some other countries, such as Australia and New Zealand, the terms “thesis” and “dissertation” are used interchangeably, and the length and content of these documents depend on the degree program and the requirements of the institution.
In general, both a thesis and a dissertation involve original research and are used to demonstrate the candidate’s expertise in a particular field of study. However, the specific requirements and expectations for each may vary depending on the degree program, institution, and country.
Both a thesis and a dissertation typically involve conducting original research and presenting findings in a formal document. They often include a literature review, methodology section, analysis of data, and conclusions based on the findings.
The purpose of both a thesis and a dissertation is to contribute to the body of knowledge in a particular field and demonstrate the student’s mastery of the subject matter. They are also important for advancing academic and professional careers in fields such as academia, research, and policy-making.
While the requirements and expectations for a thesis or dissertation may vary, it is important for students to work closely with their advisors and follow all guidelines provided by their institution. This includes adhering to formatting and citation styles, conducting ethical research, and submitting drafts and revisions in a timely manner.
Info | Thesis | |
---|---|---|
Purpose | To present original research and findings in order to obtain a doctoral degree | To present original research and findings in order to obtain a master’s degree |
Length | Generally longer, between 100-300 pages or more, depending on the field and program | Generally shorter, between 40-100 pages, depending on the field and program |
Structure | Typically consists of several chapters, including an introduction, literature review, methodology, results, and conclusion | Typically consists of several chapters, including an introduction, literature review, methodology, results, and conclusion |
Originality | Must present original research and findings that contribute to the body of knowledge in the field | Must present original research and findings that contribute to the body of knowledge in the field |
Defense | Must be defended orally in front of a committee of experts in the field | May or may not require an oral defense, depending on the program and institution |
Field | Typically associated with doctoral programs in the humanities, social sciences, and some scientific fields | Typically associated with master’s programs in a wide range of fields, including science, engineering, social sciences, and humanities |
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If you’ve landed on this article, chances are you’ve got a dissertation or thesis project coming up (hopefully it’s not due next week!), and you’re now asking yourself the classic question, “what the #%#%^ is a dissertation?”…
In this post, I’ll break down the basics of exactly what a dissertation is, in plain language. No ivory tower academia.
So, let’s get to the pressing question – what is a dissertation?
Simply put, a dissertation (or thesis – depending on which country you’re studying in) is a research project . In other words, your task is to ask a research question (or set of questions) and then set about finding the answer(s). Simple enough, right?
Well, the catch is that you’ve got to undertake this research project in an academic fashion , and there’s a wealth of academic language that makes it all (look) rather confusing (thanks, academia). However, at its core, a dissertation is about undertaking research (investigating something). This is really important to understand, because the key skill that your university is trying to develop in you (and will be testing you on) is your ability to undertake research in a well-structured structured, critical and academically rigorous way.
This research-centric focus is significantly different from assignments or essays, where the main concern is whether you can understand and apply the prescribed module theory. I’ll explain some other key differences between dissertations or theses and assignments a bit later in this article, but for now, let’s dig a little deeper into what a dissertation is.
Okay, so now that you understand that a dissertation is a research project (which is testing your ability to undertake quality research), let’s go a little deeper into what that means in practical terms.
The best way to understand a dissertation is to view it as a process – more specifically a research process (it is a research project, after all). This process involves four essential steps, which I’ll discuss below.
The very first step of the research process is to find a meaningful research question, or a set of questions. In other words, you need to find a suitable topic for investigation. Since a dissertation is all about research, identifying the key question(s) is the critical first step. Here’s an example of a well-defined research question:
“Which factors cultivate or erode customer trust in UK-based life insurance brokers?”
This clearly defined question sets the direction of the research . From the question alone, you can understand exactly what the outcome of the research might look like – i.e. a set of findings about which factors help brokers develop customer trust, and which factors negatively impact trust.
But how on earth do I find a suitable research question, you ask? Don’t worry about this right now – when you’re ready, you can read our article about finding a dissertation topic . However, right now, the important thing to understand is that the first step in the dissertation process is identifying the key research question(s). Without a clear question, you cannot move forward.
Once the research question is clearly established, the next step is to review the existing research/literature (both academic and professional/industry) to understand what has already been said with regard to the question. In academic speak, this is called a literature review .
This step is critically important as, in all likelihood, someone else has asked a similar question to yours, and therefore you can build on the work of others . Good academic research is not about reinventing the wheel or starting from scratch – it’s about familiarising yourself with the current state of knowledge, and then using that as your basis for further research.
Simply put, the first step to answering your research question is to look at what other researchers have to say about it. Sometimes this will lead you to change your research question or direction slightly (for example, if the existing research already provides a comprehensive answer). Don’t stress – this is completely acceptable and a normal part of the research process.
Once you’ve got a decent understanding of the existing state of knowledge, you will carry out your own research by collecting and analysing the relevant data. This could take to form of primary research (collecting your own fresh data), secondary research (synthesising existing data) or both, depending on the nature of your degree, research question(s) and even your university’s specific requirements.
Exactly what data you collect and how you go about analysing it depends largely on the research question(s) you are asking, but very often you will take either a qualitative approach (e.g. interviews or focus groups) or a quantitative approach (e.g. online surveys). In other words, your research approach can be words-based, numbers-based, or both . Don’t let the terminology scare you and don’t worry about these technical details for now – we’ll explain research methodology in later posts .
Combining your understanding of the existing research (Step 2) with the findings from your own original research (Step 3), you then (attempt to) answer your original research question (s). The process of asking, investigating and then answering has gone full circle.
Of course, your research won’t always provide rock-solid answers to your original questions, and indeed you might find that your findings spur new questions altogether. Don’t worry – this is completely acceptable and is a natural part of the research process.
So, to recap, a dissertation is best understood as a research process, where you are:
Depending on your specific degree and the way your university designs its coursework, you might be asking yourself “but isn’t this just a longer version of a normal assignment?”. Well, it’s quite possible that your previous assignments required a similar research process, but there are some key differences you need to be aware of, which I’ll explain next.
While there are, naturally, similarities between dissertations/theses and assignments, its important to understand the differences so that you approach your dissertation with the right mindset and focus your energy on the right things. Here, I’ll discuss four ways in which writing a dissertation differs substantially from assignments and essays, and why this matters.
Unlike assignments or essays, where the general topic is determined for you, for your dissertation, you will (typically) be the one who decides on your research questions and overall direction. This means that you will need to:
This is very different from assignments, where the theory is given to you on a platter, and the direction is largely pre-defined. Therefore, before you start the dissertation process, you need to understand the basics of academic research, how to find a suitable research topic and how to source the relevant literature.
A dissertation is a long journey, at least compared to assignments. Typically, you will spend 3 – 6 months writing around 15,000 – 25,000 words (for Masters-level, much more for PhD) on just one subject. Therefore, successfully completing your dissertation requires a substantial amount of stamina .
To make it even more challenging, your classmates will not be researching the same thing as you are, so you have limited support, other than your supervisor (who may be very busy). This can make it quite a lonely journey . Therefore, you need a lot of self-discipline and self-direction in order to see it through to the end. You should also try to build a support network of people who can help you through the process (perhaps alumni, faculty or a private coach ).
We touched on this earlier. Unlike assignments or essays, where the markers are assessing your ability to understand and apply the theories, models and frameworks that they provide you with, your dissertation will be is assessing your ability to undertake high-quality research in an academically rigorous manner.
Of course, your ability to understand the relevant theory (i.e. within your literature review) is still very important, but this is only one piece of the research skills puzzle. You need to demonstrate the full spectrum of research skills.
It’s important to note that your research does not need to be ground-breaking, revolutionary or world-changing – that is not what the markers are assessing. They are assessing whether you can apply well-established research principles and skills to a worthwhile topic of enquiry. Don’t feel like you need to solve the world’s major problems. It’s simply not going to happen (you’re a first-time researcher, after all) – and doesn’t need to happen in order to earn good marks.
In your assignments, you were likely encouraged to take a broad, interconnected, high-level view of the theory and connect as many different ideas and concepts as possible. In your dissertation, however, you typically need to narrow your focus and go deep into one particular topic. Think about the research question we looked at earlier:
The focus is intentionally very narrow – specifically the focus is on:
By keeping the focus narrow, you enable yourself to deeply probe whichever topic you choose – and this depth is essential for earning good marks. Importantly, ringfencing your focus doesn’t mean ignoring the connections to other topics – you should still acknowledge all the linkages, but don’t get distracted – stay focused on the research question(s).
So, as you can see, a dissertation is more than just an extended assignment or essay. It’s a unique research project that you (and only you) must lead from start to finish. The good news is that, if done right, completing your dissertation will equip you with strong research skills, which you will most certainly use in the future, regardless of whether you follow an academic or professional path.
Hopefully in this post, I’ve answered your key question, “what is a dissertation?”, at least at a big picture-level. To recap on the key points:
In this post, I’ve gently touched on some of the intricacies of the dissertation, including research questions, data types and research methodologies. Be sure to check out the Grad Coach Blog for more detailed discussion of these areas.
Hello Derek
Yes, I struggle with literature review and am highly frustrated (with myself).
Thank you for the guide that you have sent, especially the apps. I am working through the guide and busy with the implementation of it.
Hope to hear from you again!
Regards Micheal
Great to hear that, Michael. All the best with your research!
Thank you. That was quite something to move forward with. Despite the fact that I was lost. I will now be able to do something with the information given.
That’s great, Pheladi. Good luck!
Thank you so much for your videos and writing research proposal and dissertation. These videos are useful. I was struggling, but now I am starting to write. I hope to watch your more videos to learn more about the dissertation.
Before this post, I didn’t know where to start my research, today I have some light and do certain % of my research. I may need for direction on literature review. Big thanks to you.
Very very good Derek
Thanks immensely Derek
You’re welcome 🙂 Good luck with your dissertation/thesis.
Thank you Derek for widening my scope on research, this can be likened to a blind man whose eyes can now see.
Remain bless sir🙏
You guys are doing really great… I am extremely grateful for your help… Keep going.. Please activate that research help for indian students as well I couldn’t access it being an indian.
Hello Derek,
I got stuck in the concept paper because I changed my topic. Now I don’t know where to pick up the pieces again. How can I focus and stay on track. I am getting scared.
Thank you so much Derek, I am a new comer, learning for the first time how to write a good research. These in information’s to me is a mind opener, I hope to learn more from you in the future, Thanks and God bless.
Thanks Guys this means so much to me
A pretty good and insightful piece for beginners like me. Looking forward to more helpful hints and guide. Thanks to Derek.
This is so helpful…really appreciate your work.
Great to hear that
On cybersecurity Analytics research to banking transactions
This was of great help to me and quite informative .
Thank you so much GradCoach,
This is like a light at the end of the tunnel. You are a lifesaver. Thank you once again.
hello, I’m so grateful for such great information. It appears basic, but it is so relevant in understanding the research process.
Your website is very helpful for writing thesis. A big well done to the team. Do you have a website for paper writing and academic publishing or how to publish my thesis, how to land a fully funded PhD, etc. Just the general upward trajectory in the academia. Thank you
I have learned a lot from the lectures, it was beneficial and helped me a lot in my research journey. Thank you very much
Thank you for your gifts of enlightenment to a person like me who’s always a student. May your ‘well’not dry out.
It’s quite a fun and superb, now I have come to believe that the way one teach can have an impact in understanding and can change one’s assumption and position about a subject or a problem, before I came here and learn I consider research methodology a hard thing because, I wasn’t taught by a mentor like this one. Thanks so much who ever have make this effort to make this something easy and engaging
I can’t imagine that world has achieved major aspects of every field of study
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This topic is intended for my MPhil. Work (The perception of parents on Technical and Vocational Education, the impact on educational policy). May you consider the suitability of the topic for me and refine if the need be. Thank you,
Hello here…
i have gone through the notes and it is interesting. All i need now is a pdf file that contain a whole dissertation writing inclusive of chapter 1 to 5 on motivation as a topic… thanks
Remarkable!!! You made it sound so simple
I got stuck in my writing because I need to change my topic. I am getting scared as I have a semester left 🙁
Thanks for such an educational opportunity and support
Thanks for your educational opportunity and support
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What is a dissertation, getting started, staying on track.
A thesis is a long-term project that you work on over the course of a semester or a year. Theses have a very wide variety of styles and content, so we encourage you to look at prior examples and work closely with faculty to develop yours.
Before you begin, make sure that you are familiar with the dissertation genre—what it is for and what it looks like.
Generally speaking, a dissertation’s purpose is to prove that you have the expertise necessary to fulfill your doctoral-degree requirements by showing depth of knowledge and independent thinking.
The form of a dissertation may vary by discipline. Be sure to follow the specific guidelines of your department.
Finding a topic for your thesis or dissertation should start with a research question that excites or at least interests you. A rigorous, engaging, and original project will require continuous curiosity about your topic, about your own thoughts on the topic, and about what other scholars have said on your topic. Avoid getting boxed in by thinking you know what you want to say from the beginning; let your research and your writing evolve as you explore and fine-tune your focus through constant questioning and exploration.
Get a sense of the broader picture before you narrow your focus and attempt to frame an argument. Read, skim, and otherwise familiarize yourself with what other scholars have done in areas related to your proposed topic. Briefly explore topics tangentially related to yours to broaden your perspective and increase your chance of finding a unique angle to pursue.
Critical Reading
Critical reading is the opposite of passive reading. Instead of merely reading for information to absorb, critical reading also involves careful, sustained thinking about what you are reading. This process may include analyzing the author’s motives and assumptions, asking what might be left out of the discussion, considering what you agree with or disagree with in the author’s statements and why you agree or disagree, and exploring connections or contradictions between scholarly arguments. Here is a resource to help hone your critical-reading skills:
http://writing.umn.edu/sws/assets/pdf/quicktips/criticalread.pdf
Conversation
Your thesis or dissertation will incorporate some ideas from other scholars whose work you researched. By reading critically and following your curiosity, you will develop your own ideas and claims, and these contributions are the core of your project. You will also acknowledge the work of scholars who came before you, and you must accurately and fairly attribute this work and define your place within the larger discussion. Make sure that you know how to quote, summarize, paraphrase , integrate , and cite secondary sources to avoid plagiarism and to show the depth and breadth of your knowledge.
A thesis is a long-term, large project that involves both research and writing; it is easy to lose focus, motivation, and momentum. Here are suggestions for achieving the result you want in the time you have.
The dissertation is probably the largest project you have undertaken, and a lot of the work is self-directed. The project can feel daunting or even overwhelming unless you break it down into manageable pieces and create a timeline for completing each smaller task. Be realistic but also challenge yourself, and be forgiving of yourself if you miss a self-imposed deadline here and there.
Your program will also have specific deadlines for different requirements, including establishing a committee, submitting a prospectus, completing the dissertation, defending the dissertation, and submitting your work. Consult your department’s website for these dates and incorporate them into the timeline for your work.
Accountability
Sometimes self-imposed deadlines do not feel urgent unless there is accountability to someone beyond yourself. To increase your motivation to complete tasks on schedule, set dates with your committee chair to submit pre-determined pieces of a chapter. You can also arrange with a fellow doctoral student to check on each other’s progress. Research and writing can be lonely, so it is also nice to share that journey with someone and support each other through the process.
Common Pitfalls
The most common challenges for students writing a dissertation are writer’s block, information-overload, and the compulsion to keep researching forever.
There are many strategies for avoiding writer’s block, such as freewriting, outlining, taking a walk, starting in the middle, and creating an ideal work environment for your particular learning style. Pay attention to what helps you and try different things until you find what works.
Efficient researching techniques are essential to avoiding information-overload. Here are a couple of resources about strategies for finding sources and quickly obtaining essential information from them.
https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/subject_specific_writing/writing_in_literature/writing_in_literature_detailed_discussion/reading_criticism.html
https://students.dartmouth.edu/academic-skills/learning-resources/learning-strategies/reading-techniques
Finally, remember that there is always more to learn and your dissertation cannot incorporate everything. Follow your curiosity but also set limits on the scope of your work. It helps to create a folder entitled “future projects” for topics and sources that interest you but that do not fit neatly into the dissertation. Also remember that future scholars will build off of your work, so leave something for them to do.
Browsing through theses and dissertations of the past can help to get a sense of your options and gain inspiration but be careful to use current guidelines and refer to your committee instead of relying on these examples for form or formatting.
DASH Digital Access to Scholarship at Harvard.
HOLLIS Harvard Library’s catalog provides access to ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global .
MIT Architecture has a list of their graduates’ dissertations and theses.
Rhode Island School of Design has a list of their graduates’ dissertations and theses.
University of South Florida has a list of their graduates’ dissertations and theses.
Harvard GSD has a list of projects, including theses and professors’ research.
Harvard University Digital Accessibility Policy
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Getting a graduate degree, whether it is a master or a doctoral degree is highly challenging. These degrees are all comprised of advanced courses and expect students to be constantly engaged with the material. Both a master’s and a doctoral program mean that the student is on his or her way to become an expert in the field.
In order to succeed in these advanced degrees, students need to complete all coursework by doing the readings, projects, and the necessary research. Whereas a Bachelor’s Degree only goes over subjects of interest in a more superficial manner, still giving students time to commit to a field, students doing a master’s and doctoral degrees take one field of study and explore it in depth.
Besides the necessary courses that are required for a graduate degree most programs also involve the completion of an advanced piece of work in research, either a thesis or a dissertation. Thesis or dissertations are the final pieces of work that students submit before graduation and they encompass all the skills and knowledge that has been accumulated during the years of study for the degree.
Most people use the words thesis and dissertation interchangeably, meaning that one could substitute the other and they are the same. There are so many academic terms now that it is easy to confuse them. However, there are similarities and differences in both the thesis and the dissertation , and this article will explore them.
The thesis and dissertation are both academic papers which focus on the field of study of the student. They are both research focused and explore a topic in depth, bringing together all concepts, theories, and practical applications which have been acquired during the years that a student has been in graduate school, whether it is a master’s or a doctoral (PhD) program.
The terms of thesis and dissertation are used as if they were the same, and there are quite a few similarities between them. These include the fact that both projects are for graduate students and not for undergraduate students. In addition, they are both lengthy papers , often surpassing hundreds of pages depending on the field of study and whether they are more theoretical or practical.
Also, both projects require some sort of guidance to complete. That is why mentors or advisers are assigned to students to help them along the way and give them advice on how to proceed. The advisers or mentors comment on the student’s research plans, writing, collection of data and so on. At the end, they are mentioned in the final project as main contributors besides the author or student.
Since the thesis and dissertation are required for students to be allowed to graduate, those who undertake to do these projects must get a passing grade . This passing grade is usually considered to be a B or above . Due to the mentorship and effort that students give to complete either a thesis or a dissertation, they usually get good grades.
In case a student does not get a passing grade , many universities have policies on letting students redo or rewrite their thesis or dissertation . However, there are limits on the number of times students are allowed to redo their research projects. These limits depend on the university which is awarding the degree.
Moreover, both the dissertation and the thesis have similar structures that students need to write.
Even though these parts have the same names, their contents will be quite different.
After students complete their dissertations or thesis projects they are required to present them . Most universities require oral presentations or as they are called thesis or dissertation defenses. This means that students will present and defend their work and arguments in front of a panel of professors, mentors, industry experts, peers, as well as family members. The audience will ask questions at the end to test whether the student has done good work and to see how valid the project is. At the end, the professors will evaluate the research project and will grade them.
Whether you choose a thesis or a dissertation depends on a few factor s, however through completing one or the other you will be doing the following:
A thesis and a dissertation despite being used interchangeably, also have many differences in various aspects. Below we will give details on the 5 main differences of a thesis and dissertation.
Because different countries or continents in general have different educational systems, the definitions of various academic terms will also not be the same. This stands for the dissertation vs thesis concepts, more specifically the differences are in Europe and the United States .
In Europe, a thesis is a requirement to graduate from a doctoral or PhD program . It is a large body of original research that the student does over several years, which also contains references and relations to existing research that has been done by other people.
The dissertation on the other hand is a smaller research project that is done to complete a Master’s program. It does not necessarily need to have original research, but the student must take a view and back it up with arguments collected from existing research in the form of literature review.
In the United States, the definitions of a thesis and dissertation are completely opposite. The thesis in this case is the research project necessary for graduating from a master’s degree program , while the dissertation is done for doctoral degrees .
So the thesis will contain the arguments developed mostly from existing research , while the dissertation will be complete when the student picks a topic which has not been explored yet and dedicates years to researching it and prove or disprove a hypothesis .
In this article, we will explore the difference between thesis and dissertation from the U.S perspective and definitions.
The dissertation vs thesis difference is in what they are used for. The dissertation will be used to get the terminal degree or the highest qualification possible in different fields such as the doctoral or PhD degree .
On the other hand, the thesis is used to mark the end of a master’s degree , so students will get their second cycle qualifications or education after their Bachelor’s Degree by presenting their thesis.
There are also cases when a thesis or dissertation is not required and this depends on the type of program or institution that the student is completing their degree in. This mostly occurs with master’s degrees rather than PhD programs. Some masters programs will give students a choice between doing their thesis or completing an additional course.
It is recommended that if students aim to continue their education and get a PhD qualification that they choose to complete the thesis instead of the course. That is because completing a thesis will add to your research experience and PhD programs will be more likely to accept you if you have already published some form of research.
It is also better to do the thesis if you plan to get a PhD since the dissertation requires more extensive work than the thesis, so you will already have a basic understanding of the effort and work it takes to complete it.
Another difference between thesis and dissertation is the way in which students go through the data collection process.
Since the dissertation is the original research for which students graduate from a PhD, it mostly uses primary data such as:
The thesis which does not necessarily require primary data collection, relies more on secondary data such as:
The dissertation focuses on primary data , but uses secondary sources to back arguments and provide evidence for or against a certain hypothesis. The thesis on the other hand may or may not contain primary data , and it all depends on the student’s choice.
The purpose of each of the research projects is different.
A thesis is mostly the usage of secondary sources to demonstrate to your professors and peers that you have gained enough information and skills in your field of interest. The thesis starts with a proposition and then the student analyzes and makes a case for their point of view.
The purpose of the dissertation is completely different from the thesis. The dissertation is done in order to contribute to the advancement of your field through discovering new knowledge based on research . Those who do a dissertation try to discover new concepts and theories which have not been researched enough before. They have a hypothesis and use quantitative and qualitative primary data to prove or disprove it.
Lastly, another difference between the thesis and dissertation is in their length .
Because the dissertation is original research, it can be as long as 400 pages so it will basically be a book on your topic of interest.
The thesis though relies on secondary sources and does not go as in depth into the subject as the dissertation, so its length is minimum 100 pages , but it is not necessarily a whole book about a subject.
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by Antony W
June 28, 2024
Many people use these terms thesis vs dissertation interchangeably to mean the same thing.
There are even education departments and academic institutions that use these terms differently, making them all the more confusing and therefore difficult to understand.
In this guide, you’ll learn about thesis vs dissertation so you know exactly what they mean when someone in your academic institution mentions the terms.
We’ll look at:
The primary difference between a dissertation and a thesis is the level at which a learner completes them. You’ll write a thesis if you enroll in a master’s degree courses and work on a dissertation to earn a doctoral degree.
You’ll have to do a lot of research and writing in both cases. And although the task can seem overwhelming, especially given the scope of the research and the length of the assignment, starting early can go a long way to help you finish a thesis or dissertation within the respective deadline.
A dissertation is a written assignment that features original or expanded research by a PhD student on a new or existing topic. The doctoral student chooses the topic they would like to explore within their field of study, conducts their own original research, and then presents their results (findings) in writing.
There are two reasons why writing a dissertation is worth it . First, it proves the knowledge and research skills of a doctoral student. Second, it presents an opportunity for the student to add to the existing body of knowledge in their respective field.
The time to start working on a dissertation varies from institution to institution.
In some schools, students have to complete a doctoral course, sit through a series of examinations, and then spend at least 24 weeks writing the dissertation . Other schools integrate dissertation writing into the curriculum, allowing the doctoral to start their research early.
In dissertation writing, a student has the opportunity to present a hypothesis or a new theory in their field of research, which they can use to either disapprove or support a previously presented theory in existing research.
They also have the option to add to the existing research, in which case they have to consider a unique angle that can establish their research in a unique direction.
Perhaps the most intimidating part of working on a dissertation is the defense stage because you can’t be certain of the outcome.
However, you can work closely with the assigned committee throughout the writing process to point your research and writing in the right direction.
A thesis is an academic piece of writing done by students who wish to graduate from a Master’s degree program.
The purpose of writing a thesis is to examine whether students can express their knowledge within the subject they’ve been studying in their Master’s degree program.
Some universities require Master’s students to write undergraduate theses, but these tend to be shorter with less depth compared to the Master’s degree theses.
As with dissertation, thesis writing requires that a student choose a topic of their interest in their field of study.
The minor difference is that the topic has to be narrow. For example, if you’re taking a course in computer science, you might focus on a topic such as the effect of internet of things in textile industry.
Next, look into existing research on the topic and then use the knowledge gathered to construct an academic argument. You will finalize the process by using already existing research to prove your argument.
In dissertation and thesis writing, PhD and Master’s students have to choose topics to explore. We recommend that you choose a topic that interests you so you can have an easy time researching, writing, presenting, and defending your findings.
Thesis and dissertation writing requires a student to demonstrate their ability to think and express their view in writing.
Both assignments requires defense, in which case the selected committee asses a student’s ability to present their academic findings in their field of study.
Both assignments have specific deadlines that students have to observe. Start working on your thesis or dissertation early so you don’t end up making unnecessary excuses when it’s almost time to submit your work.
The following table explains the difference between a thesis and a dissertation:
Students complete the assignment based on existing research | Students have to conduct research, perform analysis, and then come up with original research | |
At least 100 pages long. | Usually 100 to 300 pages long. | |
A thesis takes a short time to present and defend before an elected student committee | A dissertation can take between one to several hours to present and defend because it’s longer | |
A thesis is written by students who have enrolled into a Master’s degree program | A dissertation is written by students who want to earn doctorate degrees |
As you can see, the main difference between a thesis vs dissertation is the academic level at which students have to complete them. In other words, you will work on a thesis to earn a master’s degree and write a dissertation to earn a doctorate degree at the end of your academic year.
Writing a thesis or dissertation shouldn’t be difficult either. That’s because your academic journey equips you with the knowledge necessary to write an authentic and comprehensive assignment.
The most important rule when it comes to doing such assignments is to start early. Never wait until it’s too late to start writing your thesis or dissertation. Last minute rush may work well for an essay, but it won’t be quite as effective for thesis or dissertation writing.
We hope this guide clears the confusion on thesis vs dissertation.
About the author
Antony W is a professional writer and coach at Help for Assessment. He spends countless hours every day researching and writing great content filled with expert advice on how to write engaging essays, research papers, and assignments.
Dissertation and thesis. These words are enough to fill any graduate student with dread. They are both academic endeavors — two kinds of paper that represent the culmination of a graduate student’s many years of study and research. Furthermore, the word “thesis” has another meaning — an argument or main point of an essay or paper — which I’ll discuss later.
These two scholarly endeavors are similar in many respects: They both involve extensive research in a focused area, and they are both “defended” before a committee of experts — more on that later.
The thesis and dissertation are both long-form research papers written by graduate students that demonstrate knowledge in their chosen field. These papers are overseen and approved by a committee of school faculty and sometimes other experts.
While similar in some ways, the dissertation and the thesis are also distinct, and they come at different stages of the academic journey.
A master’s thesis is the culmination of a master’s program, while a doctoral dissertation concludes a doctorate program.
But wait, you say, what about a “thesis statement” or “thesis sentence”? Good question. Any good paper — be it thesis, dissertation, or other — needs a strong thesis statement. Yes, your thesis needs a thesis, but I’ll delve into that later.
For now, let’s look at the master’s thesis and the doctoral dissertation.
A thesis is a long-form paper (50-100 pages) that is the final project of most master’s level graduate students — if you’re getting an M.A., M.F.A., M.S., or other master’s degree, it’s likely you’ll have to write a thesis in order to graduate. (Some programs, though, require an alternative — like a capstone project or comprehensive exam.) A number of colleges and universities also require undergraduate seniors to produce a thesis as a final project as well. Mine did!
While there is wide variation across institutions and programs, a master’s thesis, from inception to research to completion, will generally take about 2 to 3 semesters, or 1 to 1.5 years to complete.
A thesis is a formal research paper that demonstrates a student’s ability to engage in independent research, analyze information, and, particularly for master’s students, contribute to the existing body of knowledge in their field. A student’s paper will focus on a specific topic within a broader field.
For example, someone getting a master’s degree in the rather broad field of English Literature doesn’t write their paper on all of English writing, but focuses on something specific, like 19th-century depictions of monsters in British novels. Someone pursuing a master’s degree in Anthropology doesn’t discuss anthropology generally, but may hone in on something like burial rituals in pre-modern Europe.
When I wrote my MFA thesis in theater, I focused specifically on using the body as a signifier in a small-scale production of Coriolanus — if you have no idea what I just said, that’s ok! Part of being a master’s student means that you become an expert in a very particular area.
Thesis students will have a thesis advisor, typically a faculty member with a master’s or doctoral degree in a related field, who guides the student through the research and the writing. There will also be second readers and sometimes third readers, other mentors who contribute to guiding the student’s work. These folks make up the student’s thesis committee.
At the end of the thesis process, the student will have a thesis defense . At this event, the student meets with their committee to defend their thesis. While the word defend makes the event sound adversarial, in many situations, it is more of a conversation. It is an opportunity for you to discuss your work in depth, and — occasionally, yes — respond to challenges from your committee. But don’t fear! By the time you’ve finished your thesis, it is possible that you know more about the specific topic than your readers — I had one professor who always told students that by the time of the defense, the student was the expert who was teaching him.
A dissertation is a longer paper (100-300 pages) that is the final project of doctoral students. If you’re getting a Ph.D., you’ll likely write a dissertation. (Some doctoral programs, such as those in physical therapy or law, have other requirements in lieu of a dissertation.)
It is an extensive and original piece of research, and, more so than a master’s thesis, is meant to make a substantial contribution to the academic field.
A dissertation can take substantial time to complete. Unlike a master’s thesis, which is often completed within a year or year and a half, a doctoral dissertation may take 3, 4, or 5 years — or even longer — to plan, research, and complete.
Similar to a thesis, a dissertation is supervised by a dissertation advisor, and at the end of the process, the doctoral student will attend a dissertation defense and discuss their work with a committee of experts.
So what about the other use of the word “thesis”?
The term “thesis” can have another meaning in the context of an essay, distinct from its meaning as a research paper as a whole.
In this context, the word thesis refers to the central point or argument of an essay, paper, or any written piece. It represents the main idea or assertion that the author aims to convey and support throughout their work.
Your thesis statement is like your North Star, guiding your writing as well as your reader’s journey through your piece.
So, a thesis and a dissertation are both long-form academic papers that represent the culmination of a graduate student’s work. Additionally, a thesis statement is a sentence that offers the central argument of an essay or paper.
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The academic world is rife with traditions, terminologies, and nuances that can be overwhelming for those just entering it. Among the myriad of terms and concepts students encounter, two are prominent: “dissertation” and “thesis.” Trying to understand how to move through the complicated worlds of theses and dissertations, students often seek additional support and resources to streamline their academic journey. For some, this might involve turning to custom thesis writing services , which can offer tailored assistance and expert insights, helping them craft a document that adheres to stringent academic standards and authentically represents their research and findings. But in this article, we’ll first clarify the difference between these two definitions.
Key takeaways:
For first-year students, understanding the difference between a thesis and a dissertation might not seem immediately relevant. After all, there are lectures to attend, assignments to complete, and exams to prepare for. However, as the academic journey unfolds, the importance of these two terms becomes undeniable. Depending on one’s educational aspirations, either a thesis or a dissertation will be the final mission before obtaining a postgraduate degree.
Thus, the important thing here is not just about distinguishing between two academic papers . It’s about understanding the essence of one’s academic journey and the milestones ahead. Whether you’re a freshman just starting out or a seasoned scholar, understanding the nuances, similarities, and differences between a thesis and a dissertation is crucial. It prepares you for the challenges ahead and ensures that when the time comes to choose your path, you do so with clarity and confidence.
This article will go deep into the world of theses and dissertations, exploring their definitions, similarities, and differences . By the end, you’ll be well-equipped with the knowledge to navigate your academic journey with purpose and precision.
The words “thesis” and “dissertation” are rooted in classical languages, which speaks to the age-old nature of these academic traditions. The term “thesis” originates from the Greek word “θέσις” (thésis), which means “a proposition” or “something set down.” In academic terms, a thesis is a statement or theory put forward as a premise to be maintained or proved . It’s the culmination of a master’s program, representing the results of independent research on a topic of significance in the respective field.
On the other hand, “dissertation” is derived from the Latin word “dissertātiō,” which translates to “discussion” or “debate.” A dissertation is a lengthy, formal treatise, especially one written by a candidate for a doctoral degree . It’s an original contribution to the existing body of knowledge in a particular academic field.
A thesis is a research paper that master’s students are required to submit to earn their degree. It showcases the skills and knowledge they’ve acquired throughout their program. While it may involve original research, it can also demonstrate an understanding of the field, presenting a new perspective or interpretation of existing research.
The primary aim is to show the student’s ability to think critically about a topic and effectively communicate their findings.
A dissertation, conversely, is a more exhaustive work. Doctoral candidates submit it as the final project before earning their Ph.D. Unlike a master’s thesis, a dissertation must contribute new knowledge or practices to its field. It’s an extensive piece of original research requiring significant time, effort, and academic rigor. In this intensive process, some candidates seek assistance from top-rated dissertation writing services to ensure their work is polished, academically rigorous, and free of any errors.
The process involves proposing a unique research question, conducting the research, and then writing and defending the dissertation to a panel of experts.
At first glance, the two might seem quite distinct, but before exploring their fundamental differences, let’s take a quick look at what these two papers have in common:
Both serve as a testament to the student’s mastery of their chosen field of study. They demonstrate the individual’s critical thinking, research, and effective communication capacity. | |
Both require a significant amount of research. Whether reviewing existing literature or conducting original research, students must prove their analytical and research skills. | |
Both theses and dissertations are reviewed by a committee. This committee assesses the quality, relevance, and significance of the student’s work. | |
Often, both require an oral defense. Students must defend their findings and methodologies in front of a panel of experts, showcasing their depth of knowledge and research capabilities. | |
Both documents have a similar structure, including an introduction, literature review, methodology, findings, conclusions, and bibliography. |
Understanding the distinction between a thesis and a dissertation is necessary for any postgraduate student. While the two share similarities, as discussed in the previous paragraph, they also have distinct differences that set them apart. In this chapter, we’ll first delve into the basic differences and then explore the more intricate structural differences.
A thesis is typically required for a master’s degree, while a dissertation is a staple for a doctoral degree (PhD). When it comes to the depth of research, a thesis often involves reviewing existing literature or applying known information to a new area or topic. It may involve some original research but not as extensively as a dissertation. A thesis is generally shorter, often ranging from 30 to 100 pages, depending on the subject and institution. In contrast, a dissertation is significantly longer, often exceeding 200 pages, as it provides comprehensive details of the research and its findings .
The primary purpose of a thesis is to demonstrate a student’s understanding of their field of study and often seeks to answer a research question based on existing literature.
On the other hand, a dissertation aims to add to the existing body of knowledge in a field and involves discovering something new or a fresh perspective on an existing topic .
Let’s look at a comparative table further to explain the distinctions between a thesis and a dissertation. This table will provide a visual representation, highlighting the structural elements and features that differentiate the two academic works, offering students a clearer perspective on what to expect from each.
🎓 | 📚 | |
Extensive and mandatory | Limited or based on existing research | |
Often 200+ pages | Typically 30-100 pages | |
Comprehensive, often multiple chapters | Concise, usually one chapter | |
In-depth detailing of research methods | Overview of research methods | |
Primary data collection and extensive analysis | Often secondary data or limited primary data | |
Must contribute new knowledge or perspectives | Demonstrates understanding of existing knowledge | |
Rigorous defense in front of a panel of experts | May or may not require defense | |
Often results in multiple publications | Might result in a publication, but less common |
In wrapping up this exploration of theses and dissertations, it’s evident that while there are some similarities and numerous differences between the two, the defining factor ultimately boils down to the degree a student is pursuing. Whether it’s the depth of research, the length of the document, or the nature of the contribution to the field, these distinctions are inherently tied to the academic requirements of a master’s versus a doctoral degree. As students chart their academic paths, understanding these nuances can guide their decisions and help them align their efforts with their desired academic and professional outcomes.
No, a dissertation and a thesis are not the same, although they are often used interchangeably. Typically, a thesis is a written work that a student submits as part of the requirements for a master’s degree. In contrast, a dissertation is submitted for a doctoral degree. However, the distinction can vary by country or institution.
Neither. A PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) is an academic degree that typically requires the submission of a dissertation to obtain. The dissertation is a substantial piece of original research that contributes new knowledge to the field. In some countries or institutions, it might be referred to as a “PhD thesis,” but it is generally understood as a dissertation.
The difficulty of a thesis versus a dissertation can differ based on the specific requirements of a program or institution. However, in general, a dissertation, which is required for a doctoral degree, is considered more extensive and in-depth than a master’s thesis. A dissertation often involves more original research and a greater contribution to the field. In contrast, a master’s thesis might involve a more limited scope or a comprehensive review of existing literature.
Typically, a bachelor’s degree does not require a thesis or dissertation. However, some bachelor’s programs, especially honors programs, might require students to complete a senior thesis or project as part of their degree requirements. This is not as extensive as a master’s thesis or doctoral dissertation but serves as a capstone experience for undergraduate students.
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Thesis And Dissertation
Dissertation Vs Thesis
Last updated on: Feb 9, 2023
By: Cathy A.
Reviewed By: Melisa C.
Published on: Nov 17, 2020
What are the things that make a dissertation different from a thesis? If you are planning to attend graduate school at the doctoral or master's level then knowing these differences is important for you.
Though they are used interchangeably in many places, there are some things that make them different from each other.
Read the blog to know about these differences and get started with your thesis or dissertation.
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In order to get these advanced degrees, it is compulsory for all the students to complete their coursework by doing the necessary readings, research, and project work.
Other than the compulsory courses, most graduate degree programs require the completion of advanced research work, either a dissertation or a thesis.
Dissertation or thesis after many years of studying in order to graduate. Most people use these two terms interchangeably, which means that one term could substitute the other without changing the actual meaning.
However, there are a number of differences and similarities between a thesis and a dissertation. And this is what we are going to talk about in this article.
A dissertation and thesis are both academic papers that primarily focus on the student's field of study. Both papers focus on research and explore a particular topic in depth.
A thesis is an important academic research paper required for master’s degree programs. You will have to do a lot of research to complete a thesis paper.
In a thesis, you have to conduct your research which has to be original.
Want to learn more about the thesis? For your assistance, we have curated a step-by-step guide on how to write a thesis .
A dissertation is another important form of assessment required for doctoral program degrees. Students opting for higher education like doctoral students do this kind of paper.
In this paper type, you are required to synthesize your collected information. Other than that, you can also include your own thoughts.
The objective of both papers is to bring out the theories, concepts, and practical implications acquired during the time period of a graduate student. Apart from the fact that it is a doctoral or master’s degree.
The words dissertation and thesis are used interchangeably, leading to confusion about what each word actually means.
Despite the interchangeable use of these two terms, a thesis and a dissertation differ in so many ways.
Below you can find 5 major differences between Thesis and Dissertation.
Different countries follow different structures for their education system. The definitions for academic terms are also different. This specifically stands for thesis vs dissertation concepts. It is more specifically different in the US and in Europe.
In the United States:
Type of Degree
The thesis vs dissertation is what in the terms they are specifically used for. The dissertation is required to get the highest degree in different fields.
The thesis is required to complete the master’s degree program. So students will have the second cycle qualification after that bachelor’s degree program by submitting their thesis.
There are also some cases where a thesis or dissertation is not required. As it completely depends on the type of degree and the institution from where the students are completing their degree.
Another important difference between dissertation and thesis is the data collection process in which the students go through. Apart from the differences, keep in mind that the purpose of both papers is the same.
Master thesis and doctoral dissertation need research conducted in an extensive way in order to prove that the students have gathered enough information on their field of study.
A dissertation is an original or genuine research required for students to graduate from a doctoral or Ph.d. degree program.
In most cases, it uses primary data.
The thesis does not require primary data, it solely relies on secondary data
The purpose behind each paper is different and perhaps it is the biggest difference between dissertation and thesis.
A thesis is the usage of secondary sources to elaborate to your professors that you have gathered enough information in the field of your interest.
It starts with the preposition and analysis to make a case for a point of view.
A dissertation is entirely different from a thesis. It is conducted in order to contribute to advance your field by discovering new knowledge which is based on your research.
The length of the project is another important factor in differentiating dissertation and thesis.
The dissertation is based on original research. It can be up to 400 pages. So you can consider it a book on a topic of your interest.
As discussed above, the thesis relies on secondary sources and does not involve in-depth research. So its length is up to 100 pages. It is not a complete book but a subject. You can explore our step-by-step guide on how to write a thesis.
Below you can find a sample of the thesis that you can check to clearly understand and everything about thesis writing. However, we don't recommend you copy the work.
THESIS SAMPLE
The word Thesis and dissertation are used interchangeably, pointing out the fact that there are some similarities between them.
Both thesis and dissertation require guidance to complete. This is the main reason why advisors or instructors are assigned to provide help to students in the whole process.
So, thesis and dissertation are compulsory for students to graduate. Students who undertake these projects get a passing grade which is usually b or above. Because of the mentorship and the efforts that students put into completing their thesis or dissertation, they eventually get good grades.
Both dissertation and thesis follow the same structure.
Though the names are the same in thesis and dissertation, the content may differ.
After completing their thesis or dissertation. It is important for students to present them. There are universities that require students to present their projects in oral presentations. It is also known as dissertation defense or thesis defense.
It clearly means that the students will have to present and defend their work in front of a panel of professors, mentors, and experts. Faculty members ask different questions and that you have to answer in your final paper and project’s defense. In the end, the professors will evaluate the project and will grade them.
If you are working on your dissertation paper. We highly recommend you to check our step by step guide on how to write a dissertation . It will really help you get started with your paper.
Below you can find a sample of a dissertation that you should check to clearly understand everything about writing a dissertation. However, we don't recommend you copy the work.
DISSERTATION SAMPLE
Now you know the difference between a dissertation and a thesis.
Following is the comparison chart that you can delve further to understand the similarities and differences between them.
|
|
|
| Research that demonstrates the knowledge of the candidate in the field of study | Addition to the existing knowledge |
| Claiming a hypotheses | Describing a hypotheses |
| Graduate/Master’s Degree Program | Doctorate Degree Program |
| To test the understanding and knowledge | To test the ability to conduct an independent research |
It will be useful for you to look at a number of samples to clearly understand before getting started. You can find many examples on the internet that are written in the same way. But clearly, you can find some differences between them.
In addition to that, it is important to note that writing either a thesis or a dissertation is quite a tough job. It needs skills, great ability in writing, patience, and practice.
Writing a thesis or dissertation requires a lot of hard work. So if it complicates you can order a great thesis or dissertation using our dissertation writing services.
Don't forget to get " help me do my essay now " when you are selecting a graduate program. We will make sure that you find expert writers who know how to write a successful thesis or dissertation.
Which is longer, dissertation or thesis.
A dissertation is longer than a thesis because it requires original and new research. A thesis is based on existing research and its analysis.
No, a dissertation is for all doctoral-level studies, including EdD, the doctor of education, and other such kinds.
Yes, a thesis is submitted at the end of a Master’s degree, and the degree is awarded on its basis. On the other hand, a dissertation is a part of doctoral studies.
Usually, the students spend about one to two years conducting the research and another couple of years completing the writing process.
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September 8, 2023 by Chukwuemeka Gabriel Leave a Comment
Earning a degree at a college or university involves different types of writing assignments and for those who seek to earn a master’s or doctoral degree, the biggest project they have to work on is a thesis or dissertation.
The academic world involves a lot of writing, most importantly for graduate students pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree. For graduate students to complete their degree, they need to present a major research and writing project.
It’s a dissertation for those pursuing a doctoral degree and a thesis for a master’s degree program. It’s sometimes confusing to understand the difference between these two projects.
What are the differences between dissertation vs thesis?
While these two projects share a few similarities, there are key differences between dissertation and thesis. We will be discussing the major differences and similarities between these two projects and more in this article.
According to the University of the People , a thesis is a scholarly piece of writing, an academic paper completed by a graduate student near the end of their course of study for a master’s degree program.
Generally, most master’s degrees require students to complete a thesis before graduation. At the undergraduate level, there are some bachelor’s degree programs that require students to commit and write an undergraduate thesis.
An undergraduate thesis is usually shorter and less in-depth compared to a master’s degree thesis.
A thesis provides an opportunity for students to show their knowledge within the subject matter they have learned.
Graduate students choose a specific topic of interest in their field in other to write a master’s thesis.
According to Grand Canyon University , a student pursuing a degree in nutrition science may have to examine the effects of varying compositions of pregame meals on athletic performance.
The student will need to conduct an in-depth review of existing research on that specific topic. The next step is to formulate an academic argument i.e. high crab pregame meals are being of advantage for endurance athletes.
With the existing research, the student can easily prove their assertion.
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Unlike a thesis, a dissertation is a piece of written work that incorporates original research. Doctoral student working on a dissertation usually conduct their own expanded research on a new or existing topic.
The aim of writing a dissertation is not just to prove the student’s knowledge, but to contribute to the existing knowledge in their field.
Doctoral student working on a dissertation may present a new theory or hypothesis in their own field. The students may also present research to disapprove a previously presented theory.
Doctoral students are given the opportunity to choose what they want to write about in their own field. The requirement for a researcher to earn a doctoral degree includes submitting and defending a dissertation.
A dissertation is a lengthy piece of scholarly writing required from doctoral students pursuing a PhD, while a thesis is an academic paper completed by a master’s student near the end of their course of study.
The key difference between a dissertation and a thesis is the academic degree programs that need these two projects.
A thesis is a scholarly writing required from students to complete their master’s degree program. In contrast, doctoral students are required to submit and defend their dissertations to earn their Ph.D. degree.
Another difference between a dissertation and a thesis is the need for an oral defence. Doctoral students are required to submit and defend their dissertation in order to earn a PhD, whereas not all master’s degree programs require students to orally present their thesis.
Doctoral student are required to submit their completed dissertation to their dissertation committee. After that, they will schedule dates for the oral presentation of their dissertation.
The students will be questioned by the dissertation committee about their work. They must be prepared to justify the interpretation and methodology of their work.
A dissertation is a lengthy scholarly written work compared to a master’s thesis. Generally, the average dissertation is between 100 to 300 pages of written work compared to a master’s thesis which is somewhere around 100 pages depending on the degree.
Also Read: Faculty vs Staff: Difference and Comparison
Dissertation | Thesis | |
Definition | Dissertation is a piece of written work that incorporate original research. | A thesis is a scholarly piece of writing, an academic paper completed by a graduate student near the end of their course of study for a master’s degree program. |
Function | To test the researcher’s ability to conduct independent research and understand the subject. | The purpose is to claim a hypothesis. |
Objective | To test the master’s student’s understanding and knowledge in the specialization subject. | To test the master’s student understanding and knowledge in the specialization subject. |
Length | A dissertation is a lengthy piece of written work with about 100 to 300 pages. | A master’s thesis is at least 100 pages in length. |
Dissertation and thesis are two distinct projects for master’s and PhD students. Although these two projects differ, dissertation and thesis share some similarities.
Dissertation and thesis are scholarly writings that require intensive research as well as the completion of a paper made up of original writing.
These two projects at the graduate level require the following.
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Dissertation | Thesis |
Content is mostly attributed to the student as the author | Expands upon and analyse existing research |
About two to three times lengthier than a master’s thesis | At least 100 pages in length |
Here are a few frequently asked questions about the difference between a dissertation vs thesis.
A dissertation is a piece of written work that incorporates original research. Doctoral student working on a dissertation usually conduct their own expanded research on a new or existing topic.
A thesis is a scholarly piece of writing, an academic paper completed by a graduate student near the end of their course of study for a master’s degree program.
Also Read: Seminar vs Workshop: Difference and Comparison
While these two projects share a few similarities, there are key differences between a dissertation and a thesis.
A dissertation is a lengthy piece of scholarly writing required from doctoral students pursuing a PhD, while a thesis is an academic paper completed by master’s students.
Depending on the master’s degree program and other factors such as research top, institution, and country, a thesis should be at least 100 pages.
A dissertation is a lengthy scholarly written work that is usually two to three times lengthier than a master’s thesis. On average, a dissertation should have 100 to 300 pages.
A dissertation is a lengthy piece of scholarly writing required from doctoral students pursuing a PhD, while a thesis is an academic paper completed by a master’s student near the end of their course of study for a master’s degree program.
Although these two projects differ, dissertation and thesis share some similarities. Both dissertation and thesis require analytical skills for students to support their findings.
Master’s students and PhD students work with a committee that consists of faculty members, advisors, and similar professionals.
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Permanent URI for this collection https://hdl.handle.net/2152/11
This collection contains University of Texas at Austin electronic theses and dissertations (ETDs). The collection includes ETDs primarily from 2001 to the present. Some pre-2001 theses and dissertations have been digitized and added to this collection, but those are uncommon. The library catalog is the most comprehensive list of UT Austin theses and dissertations.
Since 2010, the Office of Graduate Studies at UT Austin has required all theses and dissertations to be made publicly available in Texas ScholarWorks; however, authors are able to request an embargo of up to seven years. Embargoed ETDs will not show up in this collection. Most of the ETDs in this collection are freely accessible to all users, but some pre-2010 works require a current UT EID at point of use. Please see the FAQs for more information. If you have a question about the availability of a specific ETD, please contact [email protected].
Some items in this collection may contain offensive images or text. The University of Texas Libraries is committed to maintaining an accurate and authentic scholarly and historic record. An authentic record is essential for understanding our past and informing the present. In order to preserve the authenticity of the historical record we will not honor requests to redact content, correct errors, or otherwise remove content, except in cases where there are legal concerns (e.g. potential copyright infringement, inclusion of HIPAA/FERPA protected information or Social Security Numbers) or evidence of a clear and imminent threat to personal safety or well-being.
This policy is in keeping with the American Library Association code of ethics to resist efforts to censor library resources, and the Society of American Archivists code of ethics that states "archivists may not willfully alter, manipulate, or destroy data or records to conceal facts or distort evidence."
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Learn the main differences between a dissertation and a thesis, two types of scholarly projects for master's and doctoral degrees. Find out how they differ in length, research, structure, oral presentation, and context.
Learn the difference between a dissertation and a thesis, two types of academic papers that students complete for their master's or doctoral degrees. Find out the similarities, differences, structures, and requirements for each in the US and Europe.
Learn how the terms 'dissertation' and 'thesis' are used in different countries and academic levels. Find out the key features and requirements of each type of research project.
Learn the main differences between a dissertation and a thesis, two types of academic research projects. Find out how the terms vary by course, university and location, and see examples from US and UK universities.
Learn how to distinguish between a dissertation and a thesis, two types of research projects that mark the culmination of academic programs. Find out the differences in purpose, structure, length, depth, degree level, and requirements for each project.
A thesis is a type of research paper based on your original research, usually submitted as the final step of a master's program or a capstone to a bachelor's degree. Learn how to structure, write, and defend your thesis, and see examples of different disciplines and formats.
Learn how to distinguish between a dissertation and a thesis, two types of academic research projects that vary in scope, complexity, and objectives. Find out the main differences in academic and research requirements, length, timeframe, review process, and potential for publication.
A thesis and a dissertation are both extensive research papers, and both require literature searches and novel findings, but the two differ in various ways. Their definitions also differ across regions. Typically, in North America, a thesis is required for the completion of a master's degree, while a dissertation is required for the completion of a doctoral degree.
Learn the key differences and similarities between a dissertation and a thesis, two types of academic writing that require original research and scholarship. Find out the academic level, length, scope, purpose, and degree requirement for each document.
Learn how to distinguish between a dissertation and a thesis, two types of research projects that students complete for master's and doctoral degrees. Find out the academic level, research requirements, length, and completion process of each project.
Learn the differences and similarities between a dissertation and a thesis, two major research and writing projects for graduate students. Find out how to choose, structure and defend your dissertation or thesis with GCU's guidance.
Learn the key distinctions between a dissertation and a thesis, two types of research projects for master's and doctoral degrees. Find out how they vary in scope, depth, length, and requirements across different regions like the U.S. and Europe.
Learn the key differences and similarities between a dissertation and a thesis, two types of academic writing assignments. Find out how they vary by academic level, scope, depth, originality, and time in Europe and the USA.
Dissertation vs Thesis "Dissertation" and "thesis" are often used interchangeably, but there are some differences between them, depending on the context and country in which they are used. Here is a brief overview of their differences: In the United States and Canada, a thesis is usually associated with a master's degree, while a dissertation is associated with a doctoral degree.
A dissertation is a research project where you ask a question and find an answer using academic methods. Learn the four steps of the dissertation process, the differences between dissertations and assignments, and how to find a suitable topic.
A thesis is a long-term, large project that involves both research and writing; it is easy to lose focus, motivation, and momentum. Here are suggestions for achieving the result you want in the time you have. The dissertation is probably the largest project you have undertaken, and a lot of the work is self-directed.
This stands for the dissertation vs thesis concepts, more specifically the differences are in Europe and the United States. Europe. In Europe, a thesis is a requirement to graduate from a doctoral or PhD program. It is a large body of original research that the student does over several years, which also contains references and relations to ...
The differences between a thesis and a dissertation. The primary difference between a dissertation and a thesis is the level at which a learner completes them. You'll write a thesis if you enroll in a master's degree courses and work on a dissertation to earn a doctoral degree. You'll have to do a lot of research and writing in both cases.
A master's thesis is the culmination of a master's program, while a doctoral dissertation concludes a doctorate program. But wait, you say, what about a "thesis statement" or "thesis sentence"? Good question. Any good paper — be it thesis, dissertation, or other — needs a strong thesis statement. Yes, your thesis needs a thesis ...
The difficulty of a thesis versus a dissertation can differ based on the specific requirements of a program or institution. However, in general, a dissertation, which is required for a doctoral degree, is considered more extensive and in-depth than a master's thesis.
The thesis vs dissertation is what in the terms they are specifically used for. The dissertation is required to get the highest degree in different fields. The thesis is required to complete the master's degree program. So students will have the second cycle qualification after that bachelor's degree program by submitting their thesis.
What is the difference between dissertation vs thesis? While these two projects share a few similarities, there are key differences between a dissertation and a thesis. A dissertation is a lengthy piece of scholarly writing required from doctoral students pursuing a PhD, while a thesis is an academic paper completed by master's students. ...
The dissertation is organized into six chapters, encompassing the connection between crystal structure and magnetic structure, an overview of spintronics and magnon band topology, detailed descriptions of experimental techniques, investigation of the spin Seebeck effect, examination of the magnon Hall effect in quantum magnets, and an in-depth ...
Congratulations to all of Temple's recent master's and doctoral graduates! Temple University Libraries and University Press is proud to host these students' outstanding research in Temple's institutional repository TUScholarShare.. We received 128 doctoral dissertations and 47 master's theses this May. Of those, only 14% chose to embargo (i.e., delay access to) their work.
- Dissertation: California Settler-Colonialism: Unsettling Genocide Prevention. Dr. Malloy is a tribal member of Yurok and Karuk. Dr. Malloy has worked in the field of Native American and Indigenous Studies for nine years, seven of which as a lecturer in the Department
My thesis reexamines the boundary between hardware and software to enable efficient data center processing. I begin this chapter with an overview of the problem: processor inefficiency for data center applications (§1.1). Subsequently, I present an overview of my vision: hardware/software