masters without dissertation uk

Do All Degrees Have a Dissertation?

In General , University by Think Student Editor February 5, 2023 Leave a Comment

When thinking about university and the work you have to do, dissertations can often come to mind. As they’re an extended piece of writing, they can often feel long, hard, and simply too much of a hassle. Due to this, it’s entirely naturally to wonder if you must do one at all. That’s exactly what you’ll find out in this article.

In short, at undergraduate level, not all degrees will require you to have a dissertation. Whether you have to do a dissertation or not will generally depend on what you study and what university you study at.

However, at master’s degree level, you will need to do a dissertation to gain the full master’s degree. It may be possible for you to start the master’s degree and then to switch to a postgraduate certificate or diploma, which would not require you to do a dissertation.

Continue reading to learn more about dissertations and when you may need to do one. This article will tell you all you need to know about whether you have to do a dissertation and what the point of one is at all.

Table of Contents

Does everyone at university have to do a dissertation?

While university is often associated with traditional degrees, there are many other options for what you can study at university. These will generally be forms of higher education, meaning that they will be qualifications done after completing sixth form or college at level 4 or above. For more on higher education, check out this Think Student article .

The options of what you can study at a university can range from higher national certificates (HNCs) to foundation degrees and many more. For more on these, check out this UCAS guide .

Due to the wide range of qualifications that you can get at university, the answer is no, not everyone at university will have to do a dissertation . This is primarily due to how these higher education qualifications have different structures to the traditional bachelor’s or master’s degrees and so will often not require a dissertation.

For example, a HNC is equivalent to the first year of a bachelor’s degree. As a dissertation would generally be done in the final year of the degree, a dissertation couldn’t fit into its structure at all. For more on HNC qualifications, check out this article by University Compare.

Can you get a degree without doing a dissertation?

University can be hard to navigate, and it can be even harder trying to get your head around all of the terms and trying to figure out what a degree actually involves. Dissertations are a notorious part of the degree process, and you may wonder if they’re also an essential part.

In the UK, most degrees will require you to do a dissertation. However, this doesn’t apply to all degrees and will likely depend on where you go and what you study . To learn more about this, check out this article by Unite Students.

This means that it is entirely possible for you to get a degree without doing a dissertation as long as it’s not a compulsory part of your course. If the dissertation is something you feel strongly about not doing, then it can be worth fully looking at whether the courses you are interested in will make it compulsory in the modules section of course information pages.

For more insight into which subjects at undergraduate degree level are likely to require you to do a dissertation as well as if dissertations are compulsory at master’s degree level, check out the following headings.

Which degrees require a dissertation?

As mentioned above, in the UK, the majority of degrees will require you to do a dissertation. Otherwise, a dissertation or some other kind of research project may be an optional module that you can choose whether or not to take in your third year.

To find out more specific information about whether or not a specific course will require you to do a dissertation, it is best to look at the course information provided on the university’s website.

However, as a rule of thumb, it’s safe to assume that subjects that are based in both researching and writing will likely require you to do a dissertation . For example, history degrees are very likely to require you to do one.

Especially as at some universities they are considered a key part of the degree due to enabling you to put the skills you have developed into practice. For more on this, check out this page on the University of Southampton’s website.

Whereas more practical subjects, such as engineering, may instead get you to do a research or design project instead of a dissertation. In the same way, doing this kind of project instead will enable students to best apply the skills that they have learnt and developed during the course of their degree.

Do all master’s degrees require a dissertation?

During a master’s degree, students will typically learn about their subject area in greater depth to the extent that they pretty much become a “master” of it by the end of the degree. At level 7 (or level 11 in Scotland), master’s degrees are the second highest level of qualification you can get in the UK. To learn more about master’s degrees, check out this Think Student article .

Due to this, it’s no wonder that a range of high-level academic skills are involved and that you will have increased independence in your studies. As both of these are also traits that dissertations give you, you may be wondering if the master’s dissertation is essential.

The answer is yes, it is. In the UK, a master’s degree will require you to do a dissertation in order to complete your full master’s qualification.

However, if you start a master’s degree and are unable to do the dissertation, some universities will allow you to switch to a shorter postgraduate course, where you won’t have to do the dissertation. This may be a postgraduate certificate (PG Cert) or a postgraduate diploma (PG Dip).

To learn more about all of this, check out this guide by the University of York.

What is the point of a university dissertation?

In the UK, a dissertation is a massive research project and extended piece of writing that students undertake typically at the end of their degree, whether it is an undergraduate or master’s. To learn more about dissertations, check out this article by Think Student.

A dissertation allows a student to study the specific area of their subject that they are most interested in. This enables them to get more in-depth knowledge and to specialise in this element of their subject area. This can be especially great if you want to break into a specific career, related to this subject or if you want to study further.

Also, as a dissertation is done independently, it allows students to develop a wide range of skills from problem solving to time management to organisation. This means that a dissertation can enable students to come out of their studies not only with the degree and specialist knowledge in their subject area but also transferable skills that can improve their career prospects. To learn more about how doing a dissertation can improve your employability, check out this article by LSE.

While a dissertation can leave you will some valuable, transferable skills that can greatly enhance your career prospects and make it easier for you to integrate into a working environment, the dissertation alone may not be enough to secure you the graduate job you’re looking for. However, you can look at this Think Student article , which will give you some useful tips on how to find the right job for you after you graduate.

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Masters of Science by Research and Dissertation (MSc) and Masters of Arts by Research (MA)

The period of registration for these degrees is one year full-time or two years part-time. You will normally need a first or second class honours degree or equivalent in a subject appropriate to the proposed field of research.

The degree involves investigation and evaluation of an approved research topic and the presentation of a dissertation. This is between 15,000 and 20,000 words long, depending on the subject discipline. It will be the subject of an oral examination, in which you will show how you have critically investigated your area of research.

The award of MSc by Research and Dissertation or MA by Research is at Level 7 (postgraduate masters level) . This is the same as MPhil, but only carries half the credits (180).

In exceptional circumstances, we may consider you for admission to a research degree without the conventional qualifications. If you have substantial relevant professional experience, including publications or written reports, the University will consider these as a potential alternative basis for an application for admission to a research degree programme.

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• Postgraduate Certificates (PGCert) and Postgraduate Diplomas (PGDip) – A Guide

Written by Mark Bennett

Looking for a shorter postgraduate study option, without a dissertation? A Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) or Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) could be perfect for you.

These programmes include Masters-level content and are available in a wide range of subjects. However, they are much more flexible and can usually be completed in only one or two terms of study.

Here you can read a detailed guide to PGCert and PGDip programmes, including information on how long they take, what their entry requirements are and who should consider studying one.

For advice on other courses, take a look at our full guide to postgraduate qualifications .

What are Postgraduate Certificates and Diplomas?

Postgraduate Certificates and Diplomas (PGCerts and PGDips) are shorter taught postgraduate courses. They include Masters-level content, but take less time to complete.

Many universities offer PGCert and PGDip qualifications as options within a full Masters programme. This can allow you to complete a specific part of a Masters and still come away with a postgraduate qualification.

Other Postgraduate Certificates and Diplomas are more vocational :

• They may be designed as Continuing Professional Development (CPD) courses , providing new skills and training for people in particular jobs.
• Or they may be specific professional training or conversion courses, designed for applicants entering regulated professions such as education or law.

The PGCert and PGDip courses described on this page are most common in the UK higher education system . Other countries offer similar types of shorter postgraduate course.

In Europe , where a Masters often takes two or more years of full-time study, an alternative qualification may be awarded to students who only complete the first year of a course. This will be broadly equivalent to a Postgraduate Certificate or Diploma in UK, but may have a different name.

In countries with newer higher education systems, alternative postgraduate courses may be offered by universities that do not have the power to award full Masters degrees. Again, these may be referred to as certificates or diplomas, but won’t necessarily be equivalent to the British PGCert or PGDip .

What is a Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert)?

A Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) is the shortest commonly available postgraduate qualification. You can earn one after a single term (roughly 15 weeks ) of full-time study.

What is a Postgraduate Diploma?

A Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) is a slightly longer postgraduate course. You can earn one after completing two terms (roughly 30 weeks ) of full-time study.

This usually means completing everything in a Masters degree except the final dissertation. A Postgraduate Diploma can therefore be a great option if you just want to study taught content at the same level of study as a Masters, without having to complete a research project.

What are the differences between PGCerts, PGDips and Masters degrees?

PGCerts and PGDips involve material that is just as challenging as what you'd study during a Masters degree, but are shorter and worth fewer credits.

PGCert and PGDip qualifications are often available as options within full Masters programmes and are therefore ‘equivalent’ to part of a Masters degree.

The following table makes this clearer:

Transferring between PGDip, PGCert and Masters programmes

It’s often possible to switch between postgraduate qualifications within the same degree programme. For example, you might enrol for a Postgraduate Diploma and then ‘upgrade’ to a Masters by completing a dissertation. Alternatively, you may be able to exit a Masters programme early, but still earn a PGCert or PGDip for the work you’ve completed.

How much does a Postgraduate Certificate or Diploma cost?

A PGCert or PGDip will normally cost less than a full Masters, reflecting their shorter length.

The average cost of a classroom-based, taught Masters in the UK is £9,465 . Using that figure, you can extrapolate the following averages based on the credit value of a PGCert or PGDip compared to a Masters:

• PGCert – £3,155
• PGDip – £6,310

These are only intended as ballpark figures, however – there is a great deal of variation when it comes to tuition fees for PGCerts and PGDips. You may find that some PGDips cost more than certain Masters, especially if they are intended for Continuing Professional Development (CPD) purposes and likely to be sponsored by employers.

A Postgraduate Certificate or Diploma could therefore offer you a more affordable postgraduate study option, particularly if you are studying with a clear professional or career goal in mind.

If so, a PGCert or PGDip could provide a quicker route into work, whilst still picking up some advanced skills and training!

Though they’re often cheaper than a Masters, a PGCert or PGDip may not be eligible for the same funding. Scholarships are often intended for full Masters degrees. This also applies to English and Welsh postgraduate loans, which aren’t available for Postgraduate Certificates and Diplomas.

However, Northern Irish postgraduate loans are available for PGDips and PGCerts, while Scottish loans are available for PGDips.

International recognition of Postgraduate Certificates and Diplomas

The PGCert and PGDip qualifications are internationally recognised and compatible with frameworks such as the European ECTS credit system. Other short courses may sometimes need to be accredited – particularly if you wish to use them as the basis for further study or employment abroad.

Which subjects award Postgraduate Certificates and Diplomas?

You can earn a PGCert or PGDip in any subject . If a university awards a Masters degree in a particular subject, it will normally offer associated PGCert and PGDip options.

Some qualifications are more subject-specific, however. As a general rule, you can dive these courses into three types:

• Academic programmes – These are available alongside full Masters degrees in most subject areas. Completing one or two terms of study will earn you a PGCert or PGDip (respectively). Continuing to complete a dissertation will earn you an MA or MSc (depending on the programme).
• Vocational programmes – These offer development opportunities for working professionals. The shorter length of a PGCert or PGDip allows time for training and skill acquisition, but won’t require you to complete a research component.
• Professional training programmes - Some postgraduate courses can allow you to enter regulated professions. These are usually Certificate- or Diploma-level qualifications, rather than full degrees. Common examples include the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) and conversion courses such as the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) . Such courses may be longer than academic PGCert and PGDip programmes but they do not include full dissertations or award a Masters.

Who should study a Postgraduate Certificate or Diploma?

PGCert and PGDip courses are ideal for anyone interested in postgraduate study, but unable to commit to the time required for a full Masters degree.

They’re also perfect for people who aren’t interested in academic research. A Postgraduate Certificate or Diploma gives you the opportunity to learn more about a subject, without having to go on and complete a dissertation.

Remember that a PGCert or PGDip may offer the option to upgrade to a full Masters degree – perfect if your interests or circumstances change after completing your course.

It’s not just fresh graduates who should consider a Postgraduate Certificate or Diploma. If you’re already in work, but looking to ‘upskill’ yourself, a shorter postgraduate course could be ideal.

Whether you should study a PGDip, PGCert or full Masters depends on what you want from postgraduate study. If you’re preparing for a specific job and know that a shorter course will do, there’s little point committing to a full Masters. But if you want to carry out your own independent scholarship, a PGDip or PGCert may not satisfy you.

What’s it like to study a Postgraduate Certificate or Diploma?

In most cases a PGCert or PGDip will be a lot like a Masters in the same subject. (Particularly if your course forms part of a wider degree programme).

You’ll study for a shorter period, but your course content will be organised in the same way as a taught Masters and the material you study will be at the same level.

In most cases you’ll complete separate modules , each with their own assessments.

As a rule of thumb you can expect a PGCert to include two modules over one semester, whilst a PGDip will probably include four over two. This may vary slightly, depending on the credit weighting for modules on your course.

Academic PGCert and PGDip programmes will be assessed in much the same way as an equivalent Masters degree.

You’ll complete coursework essays or other assignments for each module and these will collectively determine your grade. Exams are unlikely and you won’t have to produce a dissertation.

Professional programmes may include more practical assessments and tests of your competency in key skills or proficiencies.

How are Postgraduate Certificates and Diplomas graded?

A PGCert or PGDip is graded using the same scale as Masters grades .

In the UK qualifications will be awarded with Pass, Merit or Distinction depending on the final mark for your PGcert / PGDip:

Search for a PGCert or PGDip now

Ready to start looking for a shorter postgraduate course? Search for your ideal PGCert or PGDip now.

Our postgrad newsletter shares courses, funding news, stories and advice

Want to find out about the differences between taught and research Masters degrees? Our guide covers the essentials, including fees and funding.

Exploring higher education options? Learn exactly what an integrated Masters degree is and how it can help fast-track you in your chosen field with our guide.

Some professional Masters degrees are designed to prepare students to work in specific jobs, such as Social Work, Engineering and Architecture qualifications.

This guide covers the extra costs associated with studying GEM and an overview of where to find alternative financial support.

This guide covers how funding for Graduate Entry Medicine tuition fees and cost of living support works across the UK and for International students.

The Juris Doctor is a graduate-entry degree in Law. It is the main way of qualifying as a lawyer in the USA, and is also available in a number of other countries. This guide covers entry requirements, career options and more!

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Postgraduate study

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“What does my future hold?” 

Whether you’re fresh from an undergraduate course or returning to study after entering the world of work, you’re probably asking yourself that very question. A postgraduate course at Bradford will help you discover the answer – and much more – as you make yourself irresistible to employers with newly-acquired skills gained in our world-class facilities. 

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Get the latest on courses, facilities, research opportunities and life as a postgraduate student at Bradford.

Why study a postgraduate degree?

Boost your earning potential.

Government statistics show the median salary for a postgraduate degree holder was £45,000 in 2022 - £6,500 higher than an undergraduate degree holder. 

Supercharge your career 

Whether you’re looking to advance your existing role or unlock new career paths, a postgraduate degree can help get you to where you want to be. We're committed to maximising the social mobility of our students . 

Take part in pioneering research 

The Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021 found that 73% of our research is rated as Internationally Excellent or World-Leading. Contribute to vital advances in your chosen specialism. 

Forge connections in your industry 

You won’t be studying alone. Work alongside experienced peers and respected academics, developing lifelong connections and gaining valuable industry experience along the way. 

Make it happen

Postgraduate study is more than just a nice idea. Here's how you can secure your postgraduate future.

Discover funding sources to help make your postgraduate dreams at Bradford happen, including government loans and scholarships . If you’re a Bradford graduate, check out our exclusive Alumni Discount Scheme .

There’s more to postgraduate study than full-time, taught courses. Make your studies work around existing commitments with flexible options like distance learning, part-time courses, and CPD programmes.

Find your place at Bradford, an inclusive environment where we welcome students from all walks of life. We are proud Stonewall Diversity Champions , the first British University of Sanctuary , and received the Athena Swan Bronze Award . 

Types of postgraduate study

Not every postgraduate course looks the same. 

Find the best way to achieve your goals, with three distinct categories of postgraduate course: 

Postgraduate taught (PGT) courses

PGT study is similar in structure to undergraduate study – with regular teaching sessions – but a t an advanced level.  

Postgraduate research (PGR) degrees

PGR courses focus more heavily on individual research, allowing you to make a real impact in your field. 

Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

Our CPD programmes allow you to build advanced healthcare skills through a bespoke programme of study. 

The course has given me transferable skills and the breadth of knowledge I’ll need in the future. I’m hopeful that this will help me to stand out from the crowd when it comes to applying for jobs.

Postgraduate finance and funding 

Funding your degree has never been easier. 

Turn your postgraduate dream into reality with a range of finance options, including loans and scholarships that can cover up to the entire cost of your studies. Our alumni will also benefit from the Alumni Discount Scheme , netting you 10% off the price of your tuition fees. 

Find out how you’ll fund your journey of self-discovery: 

Tuition fees

Tuition fees cover the cost of your registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessment and examination.

Master's loans

Government loans of up to £12,167 are available to help cover your tuition fees and living costs while you study.

Scholarships

Every year the University of Bradford invests over £4m in scholarships to help students from all backgrounds. 

Doctoral loans

The government provides doctoral loans of up to £27,892 to help cover your course fees and living costs while you study.

Student life 

It’s not just world-class teaching you’ll unlock with postgraduate life at Bradford. 

When you apply to study with us, you’re taking the first step in a journey to explore a diverse, welcoming campus, award-winning student accommodation , vibrant city with stunning Victorian architecture, and much, much more. 

This is where you’ll build lifelong friendships, create unforgettable memories, and set yourself on an exciting path to your future. 

Discover life as a postgraduate student in Bradford: 

Student profiles

Discover the stories of past and present postgraduate students, and their unforgettable experiences. 

Postgraduate blogs

Don’t take our word for it. Discover the great things that Bradford life has to offer in our postgraduate students’ very own words. 

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Complete an enquiry form to get answers to your burning questions about postgraduate life at Bradford. 

Alternative ways to get a degree

Exploring your options - a guide on the different ways that you can study for an undergraduate or postgraduate degree

17 June 2024

For most people, earning a Bachelor's or Master's degree means studying full-time on campus for 3 years on an undergraduate course or 1 year for a postgraduate course.

But this approach doesn't suit everyone.

Maybe you can't get to campus and don't want to move to a new city. Maybe you're well set in your career. Maybe you have family commitments. Or maybe you don't meet the entry requirements for a degree course yet.

So what are the other ways to get a degree if studying full-time isn't for you?

From degree apprenticeships and work-based degrees that allow you to earn a salary while you study, to foundation years, which usually have lower entry requirements, there are several alternatives to the standard 3-year Bachelor's or 1-year Master's degree.

Degree apprenticeships

Want to earn a salary while you get your Bachelor's or Master's degree and not pay a single pound in tuition fees?

Degree apprenticeships  blend part-time study with practical workplace experience. The Government and your employer cover your tuition fees and some of your other study costs.

The usual setup on a degree apprenticeship is you go to uni 1 day a week on day release and learn on the job with your employer for the other 4 days. During university holidays, you still spend around 20% of your time learning away from your working environment.

Most degree apprenticeships are in subjects where the skills and expertise you develop are in high demand.

To do a degree apprenticeship, you can apply for a role with a company that offers them or ask your employer to set one up with the University.

Work-based degrees

If you're already in employment, a  work-based 'Learning at Work'  course allows you to get a degree alongside your job, without going to university full-time.

You do most of your learning through work-based projects, which benefit your employer. You can also study modules on campus or by distance learning.

You study at a pace that's best for you and apply the knowledge and skills you gain straightaway in your job.

You can often  claim recognition of prior learning (RPL)  to put learning from training courses, employment, voluntary work, private study, and previous attendance at college and university towards your work-based degree. This cuts down the length of time you need to study for.

The course is challenging but very rewarding, as you know you are working towards your future. I haven’t even had to forsake my salary in the process.

Katie Raine, Former Lieutenant in the Royal Navy, PgCert Occupational Health and Safety Management

Part-time degrees

Interested in getting a degree on campus but need to balance it with your other commitments?

Many  postgraduate Master's courses  are available to study part-time. There are a growing number of  part-time undergraduate courses  too.

Obviously, a part-time degree takes longer to complete – you can find out how long each of our part-time degrees take on the  relevant course page . Also bear in mind you may need to attend campus during the day, which may need some planning to fit in around a job and other commitments.

You can usually still get  tuition fee and maintenance loans  on a part-time undergraduate degree, as long as you're studying at least 25% of a full-time course.

If you do a part-time Master's degree, you could still be eligible for a  Government Postgraduate Master's Loan .

Foundation years

Don't meet the entry requirements for a Bachelor's degree or returning to study after a break? A foundation year course might be for you.

These let you get a taste for what university is like. You study a broad area in your chosen field, which can help you decide what subject to study at degree level. You also learn the core study skills you need for degree-level study.

After you complete your foundation year successfully you can do a full Bachelor's degree in a related subject.

Foundation years vs foundation degrees

Note that foundation years and foundation degrees aren't the same thing.

A foundation year prepares you for degree-level study while a foundation degree (FdA) is a qualification equivalent to 2 years of a 3-year Bachelor's degree.

HNDs (Higher National Diplomas)

Looking for a more practical route into higher education? An HND qualification is equivalent to a foundation degree (FdA) or 2 years of a 3-year Bachelor's degree.

Once you complete an HND, you can use your qualification to go straight into work. Or use your knowledge and skills to top-up your HND to a Bachelor's degree.

Top-up degrees

Top-up degrees allow you to 'top up' an existing qualification – typically an HND, foundation degree or diploma – to a full Bachelor's or Master's degree.

They usually last 1 year, full-time.

Distance learning degrees

Distance learning  means you study online at a time that fits your schedule and commitments.

You learn using digital course material, streamed lectures and online forums, and live chats with your teachers and peers.

Distance learning has great benefits, such as:

• You can usually decide when, where and how much you study
• Lower tuition fees than courses on campus
• You can study anywhere that you have an Internet connection

Postgraduate taught

About postgraduate taught courses

Postgraduate taught courses involve completing a series of assessed modules throughout your course.

Courses are delivered through a mix of lectures and seminars and you may be required to produce a dissertation. Most courses start in September

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UK government loans : you may be entitled to loan to help fund your postgraduate studies.

Qualifications

Contact hours and self-directed study

Contact time (time spent in lectures, seminars etc.) and the time you will need to dedicate to self-directed study varies by course. For more information you could contact the relevant academic department .

• Education (PGCE)

Studying a Masters degree will develop and build upon the skills and knowledge learned at undergraduate level or enable you to study a new subject at a higher level. If you're already building a career, a Masters degree will add academic theory to professional experience.

Our MA and MSc courses can be studied full-time over one year or part-time over two years (or longer). A Masters course is made up of 180 academic credits. Taught modules are typically worth 20 credits each, and most courses culminate in a 60- or 80-credit independent project - often a dissertation.

On a full-time course, you'll normally attend lectures and produce coursework for the first six to eight months. Your performance will be assessed by means of assignments or examinations. You'll then have up to six months to produce a dissertation. This will be on a topic you choose with advice from your tutors. Dissertations are normally 15,000 to 20,000 words. Study times are usually doubled if taken part-time.

PG Dip and PG Cert

Postgraduate Certificates and Diplomas allow you to specialise at Masters-level without the dissertation. They are often vocational in nature. They can allow you to progress further and faster in your chosen sector or open the door to a new career path.

They may be offered as a stand-alone course, or as an exit-point from a longer degree. If for whatever reason you can't complete a full Masters course, you could still walk away with a qualification.

Postgraduate Diplomas normally last nine months. Postgraduate Certificates normally last six months. A small number of these certificates are available as stand-alone qualifications.

Graduate Diplomas

We also offer a number of stand-alone Graduate Diplomas, which last between nine months and one year.

Professional training courses

Our professional development courses are designed for those working in or with public services, or who wish to enter certain professions. They include:

• Find your academic department : for entry into teaching
• Social Work (MA) : enables you to apply to register as a social worker
• MSc Nursing (Mental Health) : for experienced public services managers who want to develop their understanding and skills.
• MA/PGDip/PGCert in Health Professions Education : designed for professionals from all health backgrounds who are interested in teaching.
• Masters of Public Administration (MPA) and MSc Nursing (Adult) : an accelerated pre-registration route to convert your undergraduate degree into a career in care.
• Visiting students

If you're already studying for a postgraduate degree at another university, you can apply to spend time at York as a visiting student. You could study with us for up to three terms before returning to your university to complete your qualification.

• Learn more about studying at York as a visiting student

Related links

• Find a postgraduate course
• Fees and expenses

Can You Graduate Without Dissertation in UK?

Yes, on occasion. Many universities are now offering Ph.D. programs online that do not require dissertations, which have been typically requires for a Ph.D. Students can instead finish a capstone project that demonstrates their knowledge while also contributing new information. Students may want to know if they must write a thesis before enrolling in graduate school. Despite popular belief, not all graduate programs require a thesis. Apart from thesis or dissertations, there are other different kinds of writing assignments, so you will start learning about them and which ones you prefer to do during your educational life.

What Is a Dissertation?

Research projects are sometimes referred to as dissertations or theses. The major requirement for one is common in several graduate programs. In order to graduate, it is important that you should complete these courses right after completing the remaining of your degree program. Undergraduate and graduate programs do this frequently. However, it is quite common for many students to write dissertations. Furthermore, writing dissertations is enjoyable to some students. A dissertation writing services London can assist you in writing your best dissertation. We all want our assignments to be unique and free of plagiarism, which is what they claim they provide. That’s awesome!

How Does a Dissertation Work?

What is the Process of Writing a Dissertation? The first step in writing a dissertation is the selection of the topic. Then go for the research work and get the content according to your topic. Dissertation length is longer than other types of assignments or essays. The objective of the dissertation is to get the results or outcomes of your dissertation topic. Many thousands of words are needed in writing a dissertation in any field. 

Not Compulsory for Many Schools or Programs.

The good news, a dissertation is not compulsory for many programs other than Ph.D. Like many other doctorate degrees.  In many programs, it is not necessary for students to submit dissertations. Therefore, students will not invest their effort and time in writing a dissertation. 

Capstone or Research Project,

Students should know that other than dissertations there are many hands-on experience projects which will be very beneficial for their academic careers, such as capstone projects and final research. It is like an experimental task. For example, an IT student `can create any software rather than writing a long document on a particular topic. 

Choosing the Right Option:

Choosing the best graduate school option is critical for students starting graduate school. Graduate students frequently decided to ask if they are required to write theses even though they dislike doing research and spending an hour in libraries. Choose a non-thesis path if you really want to take more classes to learn more about one chosen field without having to write a completely separate paper. If you don’t mind putting in extra hours before graduating, the research study option is ideal for you, and fieldwork programs are best if you want to make a comprehensive project without even doing research. you if you want to create a detailed project without doing any research.

Dissertation is a Related Resource.

Some students think that all grad students must write a thesis, but that’s not always the case. Depending on the program, some schools may offer an alternative to thesis writing, such as field research or research projects.

Although some students believe that all graduate students are required to write a thesis, this isn’t always the case. There are schools that offer alternatives to thesis writing, such as fieldwork or research projects, so this depends on the program.

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Is it possible to go from a non-thesis MS to a PhD?

I graduated with my B.S. during the pandemic and decided to go directly into a non-thesis Masters in Earth Science. I want to pursue a PhD, however I am unsure about my eligibility without having completed a thesis beforehand. I do have some research experience which have resulted in 4 conference posters, although I have not published a manuscript to date. As I prepare for my next steps, I would appreciate any insight. My other consideration is to seek a one year MRes though a school in the UK.

• graduate-admissions

• 1 Are you asking strictly about UK? If not, say more to get better answers that what I currently see here. –  Buffy Commented Aug 27, 2021 at 19:14
• Hi, not necessarily. If an applicant can show they have sufficient background experience and skills the research group needs, they will probably give them a chance to hire them. If the PhD path is something related to the skills they have gained during their MSc thesis, that is one possibility. But those research and study skills may be gained during professional work, freelance studies and research, etc. The CV and recommendations are so important. –  enthu Commented Aug 30, 2021 at 8:57

3 Answers 3

Yes, it is absolutely possible.

You have to write and publish some research papers in peer-reviewed journals.

• 3 This seems too facile. Do you have UK experience to back it up? –  Buffy Commented Aug 27, 2021 at 19:12

In my experience, having a non-thesis MSc in the UK doesn't really make much difference in terms of PhD applications. If you have a supervisor/tutor who you worked closely with (or at least knows you well enough), and can write you a strong letter of recommendation, you should be fine. Often MSc students' thesis isn't even relevant for the PhD they're applying for anyway. It's also uncommon here to have publications in the sciences before beginning a PhD.

My advice would be to just apply for the PhD's, write about your research experience in your cover letters/CV. If your grades are up to the standard, I don't think you'll have much of a disadvantage .

People have gone from just a BS to having a PhD as well as from programs like OMSCS (example of an online non-thesis MS) to being able to get a PhD so I would imagine it is possible for you as well. I would definitely highlight the research experience that you do have so far, as a PhD is all about your research. Also, I would make sure that you know what your (specific) interests are in, as that will be of great help for identifying programs and advisors of interest, and vice-versa.

I'd start by talking with any research advisors you have had or advisors in your current program to see if a PhD is the logical next step for you, and if you can still get involved in research at your current program to help further hone your interests.

• 1 This answer probably works in US, but the OP is asking about UK. Are you sure the same is true there? –  Buffy Commented Aug 27, 2021 at 19:13

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Academic writing: a practical guide

Dissertations.

• Academic writing
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• Academic writing style
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Dissertations are a part of many degree programmes, completed in the final year of undergraduate studies or the final months of a taught masters-level degree. 

Introduction to dissertations

What is a dissertation.

A dissertation is usually a long-term project to produce a long-form piece of writing; think of it a little like an extended, structured assignment. In some subjects (typically the sciences), it might be called a project instead.

Work on an undergraduate dissertation is often spread out over the final year. For a masters dissertation, you'll start thinking about it early in your course and work on it throughout the year.

You might carry out your own original research, or base your dissertation on existing research literature or data sources - there are many possibilities.

What's different about a dissertation?

The main thing that sets a dissertation apart from your previous work is that it's an almost entirely independent project. You'll have some support from a supervisor, but you will spend a lot more time working on your own.

You'll also be working on your own topic that's different to your coursemate; you'll all produce a dissertation, but on different topics and, potentially, in very different ways.

Dissertations are also longer than a regular assignment, both in word count and the time that they take to complete. You'll usually have  most of an academic year to work on one, and be required to produce thousands of words; that might seem like a lot, but both time and word count will disappear very quickly once you get started! 

Find out more:

Key dissertation tools

Digital tools.

There are lots of tools, software and apps that can help you get through the dissertation process. Before you start, make sure you collect the key tools ready to:

• use your time efficiently
• organise yourself and your materials
• manage your writing
• be less stressed

Here's an overview of some useful tools:

Digital tools for your dissertation [Google Slides]

Setting up your document

Formatting and how you set up your document is also very important for a long piece of work like a dissertation, research project or thesis. Find tips and advice on our text processing guide:

University of York past Undergraduate and Masters dissertations

If you are a University of York student, you can access a selection of digitised undergraduate dissertations for certain subjects:

• History  
• History of Art  
• Social Policy and Social Work  

The Library also has digitised Masters dissertations for the following subjects:

• Archaeology
• Centre for Eighteenth-Century Studies  
• Centre for Medieval Studies  
• Centre for Renaissance and Early Modern Studies  
• Centre for Women's Studies  
• English and Related Literature
• Health Sciences
• History of Art
• Hull York Medical School
• Language and Linguistic Science
• School for Business and Society
• School of Social and Political Sciences ​​​​​​​

Dissertation top tips

Many dissertations are structured into four key sections:

• introduction & literature review

There are many different types of dissertation, which don't all use this structure, so make sure you check your dissertation guidance. However, elements of these sections are common in all dissertation types.

Dissertations that are an extended literature review do not involve data collection, thus do not have a methods or result section. Instead they have chapters that explore concepts/theories and result in a conclusion section. Check your dissertation module handbook and all information given to see what your dissertation involves. 

Introduction & literature review

The Introduction and Literature Review give the context for your dissertation:

• What topic did you investigate?
• What do we already know about this topic?
• What are your research questions and hypotheses?

Sometimes these are two separate sections, and sometimes the Literature Review is integrated into the Introduction. Check your guidelines to find out what you need to do.

Literature Review Top Tips [YouTube]  |  Literature Review Top Tips transcript [Google Doc]

The Method section tells the reader what you did  and why.

• Include enough detail so that someone else could replicate your study.
• Visual elements can help present your method clearly. For example, summarise participant demographic data in a table or visualise the procedure in a diagram. 
• Show critical analysis by justifying your choices. For example, why is your test/questionnaire/equipment appropriate for this study?
• If your study requires ethical approval, include these details in this section.

Methodology Top Tips [YouTube]  |  Methodology Top Tips transcript [Google Doc]

More resources to help you plan and write the methodology:

The Results tells us what you found out . 

It's an objective presentation of your research findings. Don’t explain the results in detail here - you’ll do that in the discussion section.

Results Top Tips [YouTube]  |  Results Top Tips transcript [Google Doc]

The Discussion is where you explain and interpret your results - what do your findings mean?

This section involves a lot of critical analysis. You're not just presenting your findings, but putting them together with findings from other research to build your argument about what the findings mean.

Discussion Top Tips [YouTube]  |  Discussion Top Tips transcript [Google Doc]

Conclusions are a part of many dissertations and/or research projects. Check your module information to see if you are required to write one. Some dissertations/projects have concluding remarks in their discussion section. See the slides below for more information on writing conclusions in dissertations.

Conclusions in dissertations [Google Slides]

The abstract is a short summary of the whole dissertation that goes at the start of the document. It gives an overview of your research and helps readers decide if it’s relevant to their needs.

Even though it appears at the start of the document, write the abstract last. It summarises the whole dissertation, so you need to finish the main body before you can summarise it in the abstract.

Usually the abstract follows a very similar structure to the dissertation, with one or two sentences each to show the aims, methods, key results and conclusions drawn. Some subjects use headings within the abstract. Even if you don’t use these in your final abstract, headings can help you to plan a clear structure.

Abstract Top Tips [YouTube]  |  Abstract Top Tips transcript [Google Doc]

Watch all of our Dissertation Top Tips videos in one handy playlist:

Research reports, that are often found in science subjects, follow the same structure, so the tips in this tutorial also apply to dissertations:

Other support for dissertation writing

Online resources.

The general writing pages of this site offer guidance that can be applied to all types of writing, including dissertations. Also check your department guidance and VLE sites for tailored resources.

Other useful resources for dissertation writing:

Appointments and workshops 

There is a lot of support available in departments for dissertation production, which includes your dissertation supervisor, academic supervisor and, when appropriate, staff teaching in the research methods modules.

You can also access central writing and skills support:

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Choosing Between a Thesis or Non-thesis Master's Degree

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•       Resources       Choosing Between a Thesis or Non-thesis Master's Degree

As of 2015, approximately 25.4 million Americans held advanced degrees , with more citizens joining these ranks each year. As studies continue to show the career advancement and salary benefits of completing a master's degree, more and more students elect to pursue advanced educations. When considering their options, many question whether to enroll in a master's requiring a thesis or not. The following guide examines some of the reasons degree seekers may want to write a thesis while also highlighting why they might not. Students on the fence about this important decision can find expert advice, actionable tips, and relevant guidance to help them make an informed choice in the guide that follows.

Understanding the Master's Thesis

What is the difference between a thesis & non-thesis master's program, the decision not to do a thesis.

As students research various master's programs in their chosen discipline, it's common to find that many degrees require a thesis – especially if they want to enter a research-heavy field. While this word gets thrown around a lot in academia, some learners may want more information regarding what it entails in order to make an informed decision.

What is a Master's Thesis?

The master's thesis is an original piece of scholarship allowing the student to dig into a topic and produce an expanded document that demonstrates how their knowledge has grown throughout the degree program. These documents require significant independent research of primary and secondary sources and, depending on the subject, may require interviews and/or surveys to support the overarching argument.

Individual schools and departments dictate the length of these documents, but they typically range between 60 and 100 pages – or approximately 20,000 to 40,000 words. While tackling a document of such heft may seem overwhelming at first, learners need not fret. Each master's candidate receives a faculty advisor early in their tenure to provide support, feedback, and guidance throughout the process. Because the final thesis is expected to be of a publishable quality, learners seeking the highest marks typically send their supervisor excerpts of the document as they write to ensure they are on the right track.

When picking a thesis topic, no magical formula exists. Students should consider their interests and read extensively on that topic to get a better sense of existing scholarship. They should also speak to other academics working in that sphere to familiarize themselves with ongoing projects. Only after they feel reasonably well-read should they begin looking for uncovered angles or interesting ways of using emerging methodologies to bring new light to the topic.

When considering formatting, degree seekers should check with their specific schools and departments, as they may have unique requirements. To get a general understanding of what to expect, learners can review Simon Fraser University's guidelines on thesis formatting. After completing the thesis, some programs require an oral defense before a committee while others read the document and provide a grade. Check with your prospective schools to get a better sense of procedure.

Format & Components of a Master's Thesis

While this guide attempts to provide helpful and actionable information about the process of deciding whether to follow a thesis or non-thesis track in a master's program, readers should remember that specific components and requirements of a thesis vary according to discipline, university, and department. That being said, some commonalities exist across all these – especially when it comes to what students must include in their final drafts.

As the first section a reader encounters after moving through the table of contents and other anterior text, the introductory allows the writer to firmly establish what they want to accomplish. Sometimes also called the "research question" section, the introductory must clearly state the goals of the paper and the overarching hypothesis guiding the argument. This should be written in a professional yet accessible tone that allows individuals without specializations in the field to understand the text.

This section allows learners to demonstrate their deep knowledge of the field by providing context to existing texts within their chosen discipline Learners review the main bodies of work, highlighting any issues they find within each. Constructive criticism often centers around shortcomings, blind spots, or outdated hypotheses.

Students use this section to explain how they went about their work. While scientists may point to a specific method used to reach conclusions, historians may reference the use of an emerging framework for understanding history to bring new light to a topic. The point of this section is to demonstrate the thought processes that led to your findings.

This section allows for learners to show what they learned during the research process in a non-biased way. Students should simply state what information they gathered by utilizing a specific framework or methodology and arrange those findings, without interpretation, in an easy-to-read fashion.

After providing readers with all the necessary information, the discussion section exists for candidates to interpret the raw data and demonstrate how their research led to a new understanding or contributed a unique perspective to the field. This section should directly connect to the introduction by reinforcing the hypothesis and showing how you answered the questions posed.

Even though the previous sections give prospective degree seekers a better sense of what to expect if they decide to write a thesis during their master's program, they don't necessarily help learners decide whether to pursue a thesis or non-thesis track. The following section highlights some of the reasons students frequently choose to complete a thesis or bypass the process altogether by providing a pros and cons list.

Why a Thesis Program

• Especially when entering a research-heavy discipline, completing a thesis shows prospective schools and employers that you possess the skills needed for researching and writing long-form reports.
• Students hoping to pursue a Ph.D. stand in better stead with admissions panels if they wrote a thesis during a master's program.
• Individuals hoping to enter a field that values syntax and grammar often better their writing skills by completing a thesis.
• Students who write a thesis can submit the final product to various academic journals, increasing their chances of getting published.
• Theses expand students' understanding of what they're capable of, deepen their ability to carry out an argument, and develop their skills in making connections between ideas.

Why a Non-thesis Program

• Because they don't require a significant written product, non-thesis master's tend to take less time to complete.
• Often mirrors a bachelor's program in terms of structure, allowing learners to complete classes and take exams without a great deal of research or writing.
• Students who excel in project-based assignments can continue building skills in this arena rather than focusing on skills they don't plan to use (e.g. research)
• Provides learners the opportunity to work more closely and more frequently with faculty on real-world projects since they don't spend hundreds of hours researching/writing.
• Allows learners to take more classes and gain hands-on skills to fill the time they would have spent researching and writing a thesis.

How to Choose a Master's Program: FAQs

Within some academic disciplines and professional fields, research and writing plays a key role in work done on a daily basis. Because of this, master's programs in these fields require learners to complete theses to compete against peers and be seen as competent in their work. Other disciplines, conversely, rely on other tools to accomplish work and progress ideas – making theses less important.

Yes. Master's programs focused more on application than research typically don't require a thesis – although they may still give students the option. Examples of common non-thesis master's programs include nursing, business, and education.

Even though non-thesis students won't be writing a 100-page paper, that doesn't mean they avoid completing a significant project. In place of a thesis, most applied master's programs require students to take part in at least one internship or complete a culminating project. These projects typically ask learners to take what they learned throughout coursework and create an expansive final project – examples include case studies, creative works, or portfolios.

While students who followed a non-thesis path routinely receive acceptance to Ph.D. programs, those with theses often find the process easier. Even if a learner pursues a Ph.D. in a discipline that isn't research-heavy, admissions panels still want to get a sense of your academic interests and ability to engage in independent, nuanced thought. Students with theses can provide solid proof of these skills, while those without may struggle to demonstrate preparedness as thoroughly.

The answer to this question depends on many factors, but typically it is okay not to do a thesis if you plan to enter a field that doesn't depend heavily on research or writing, or if you don't plan to complete a Ph.D.

Students wanting to work in academic, research, or writing should always opt for the thesis track. They should also follow this path if they have any doctoral degree aspirations.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to complete a thesis rests with the individual student. Figuring out how to proceed on this front requires lots of careful consideration, and learners should ensure they consider various aspects before coming to a final decision. The following section helps students consider how they should and should not come to a conclusion.

Dos and Don'ts of Choosing a Thesis or Non-thesis Program

• Consider the longevity of your decision: will you feel the same in 5-10 years or are you making a decision based on current desires?
• Talk to others who with experience in this area. Ask them questions about their decision-making process and if they regret their choice.
• Research potential thesis topics before starting a program. Going in with a game plan can help you feel more confident and settled about the process than if you're scrambling for a topic while in school.
• Reach out to prospective schools to speak with faculty and/or current students following both tracks. This will provide knowledge specific to the school while also expanding your network if you choose to attend there.
• Research Ph.D. entrance requirements to ascertain if the majority expect learners to possess a thesis when applying. This will give you a sense of whether you may experience issues later on if you do not complete one.
• Decide not to complete a thesis simply because you have never taken on such a task and feel overwhelmed or fearful that you will fail.
• Complete a thesis simply because you think it will look good on your resume. Theses require intense devotion over an extended amount of time; learners who complete them without conviction often find the process miserable.
• Forget to research alternatives to writing a thesis. Just because you don't complete a research paper doesn't mean a non-thesis track lacks rigor or challenging coursework.
• Forget to read examples of theses by previous students. If you feel overwhelmed by the task, reading work other people have done can often make the task at hand feel less scary.
• Let yourself off easy by taking the non-thesis path. If you find you have extra time in the program, talk to your advisor about taking more classes, develop meaningful projects for yourself, or see about presenting at an academic conference.

From the Expert

Sudiksha Joshi, Ph.D. is a learning advocate. Her mission is to empower our youth to think bigger, bolder thoughts and forge a career path that will change the world. She taps into her natural curiosity and ability to identify strengths to help students and those in transition find their path from feeling lost in the traditional ways of achieving success to charting their own path. Her work has been featured in Forbes, Huffington Post, Thrive Global, Medium and LinkedIn.

Why might a student decide to follow a thesis track? Why might they follow a non-thesis track?

A student might decide to take a thesis track if she/he wants to pursue a Ph.D. Also, if the students want to focus on careers where research and writing have a strong focus, the students opt for the thesis option. Research assistantships at the graduate level are also more often available to students who opt for the thesis option.

A student who might feel that writing is not one of their strengths might choose to go the non-thesis track. Likewise, a student who has other work commitments may find a non-thesis option more convenient.

Do you have any tips for deciding on a program?

I chose a thesis option because being able to conduct independent research was a big reason to go to graduate school. Also, showing the ability that I could do research was what afforded me research assistantships which meant that my tuition was paid for and I got a stipend that paid for expenses while I was in graduate school. This also allowed me the opportunity to work closely with the faculty mentor that provided me with the support and the accountability I wanted.

I would not recommend taking a non-thesis option if all the degree requires is for you to take courses. You have little to show in terms of your learning other than your grades unless you are already working on something on the side that does that for you and all you need is a certificate.

Opt for a non-thesis option if you can still work closely with a professor or on a project and if you'd rather be involved in multiple projects rather than focus on a single project. If you already have a good (informed) reason for choosing one over the other, go for it.

What's the most important thing to consider when choosing a program?

The most important thing to consider when choosing a program is getting excited about the projects that at least one of the faculty members are involved in. Do some research and see why you are excited about a particular work that at least one of the faculty members have been involved in.

Who should students talk to when considering options?

Students should talk to other students and also reach out directly to the graduate coordinator and even individual faculty members. This means that students should have done prior homework and have some good questions ready. Asking good questions will get you at least halfway through to make the right decision.

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A PhD Without A Masters Degree

The PhD usually came after the Bachelor’s degree for many years in the United Kingdom. There was no real need to successfully gain a Master’s degree before embarking on this mammoth task of empirical research. Whilst some undergraduate degrees still lead to a Master’s qualification, and many people still complete Master degrees, it is possible to do a PhD without a Masters degree .

Firstly, your creative ideas are novel which allows for innovative, fresh approaches, in addition to exerted interest and enthusiasm for an area of study. Secondly, a Master’s degree can be quite expensive and although there are bursaries and schemes available they often still require costly personal financial contributions. Thirdly, pursuing a PhD without a Master’s degree reduces the amount of time on your studies, allowing you to follow a desired career path that motivates and excites you.

Disadvantages

The Master’s degree exists to show that the student can study at a higher level and this qualification allows you to practice the necessary research skills. This also determines if committing to a large research project is right for you. Additionally, the Master’s dissertation forms a part of the PhD in several British universities, so you are potentially gaining one to two extra years to make your original contribution to the field of study.

Applications

As with any PhD application , it is important to check your eligibility with the universities you have chosen to apply to. Different institutions have varying regulations, and in some cases, a Master’s degree might be compulsory. Also, make sure you have lots of evidence in your application about why you would make a good doctoral student by presenting concrete examples of your work at the equivalent of Master’s degree level. Additionally, be clear that you are motivated and determined to add to a body of knowledge through innovative, empirical research that requires stamina, hard work, determination and collaboration.

Coping strategies

The first few months can be overwhelming, but it is important to remember that you have been accepted as a doctoral student. This confirms that a panel of experts believe that you can achieve such a prestigious degree.

In your first term try and reread your research proposal once a week and review it critically. The nature of research is that it changes but it is also useful to remember what you proposed to do. Critical thinking is essential throughout the process.

Avail of the PhD support within the university. Regularly meet with supervisors and other doctoral researchers as support is necessary during this journey, especially in year one. Sign up to university workshops about PhD research – many run one-day skills sessions covering everything from communication to project managing. As a PhD student, you are part of a community of other doctoral researchers and this can be a great source of advice and wisdom, plus a great way of meeting new people.

In your first term, you should have regular and consistent supervision meetings. This allows your research team to set clear time goals and confirm milestones which you can work towards.

And remember, with consistent hard work, dedication, determination, collaboration and a critical mind, you will achieve your PhD .

Find your PhD here .

What is a PhD and Why Should YOU do one?

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21st April 2020 at 11:04 am

To whom it concerns. During this enforced Covid Lockdown I explored the possibility of undertaking a Master’s in English Literature by distance learning. My Thesis has explored the topic of “Discrimination of Women in the Literature because of their gender”. As yet I am not affiliated with a University as my exploration is in earl. y stages. I have a Primary Honour’s Degree from my local University in Galway, Ireland. My query is can I bypass the Master’s and undertake a P.H.D in English Literature? I am familiar with the steps necessary to undertake the proposed course of study.

19th December 2020 at 6:03 pm

Good evening. Hope you are doing well inshaAllah. My wife wants to apply for a PHD program nearby london area. Do you have any suggestions on where to apply? She will need to apply for a student visa first in order to enrol into a graduate school. How can she apply for a student visa ? What type of governmental funding is available to her wife? My wife is a USA citizen and she already has her undergraduate degree from New York university. Plz advise me which university will be the best for my wife to enrol into a PhD program.

3rd March 2021 at 5:57 pm

I want to register fie for PHD, i only have law degree, i have no Masters degree

15th January 2022 at 3:30 pm

I want to apply for PhD. I have already have and degree and postgraduate diploma. Please advise

15th January 2022 at 3:32 pm

I have already a degree and a post graduate diploma

11th April 2022 at 10:13 am

Please advice to me where to start. I have degree in Public Administration and Political since graduated 2012 on South East European University in Skopje, in 2012 I make NARIC UK Recognized my foreign degree in UK comparable. In 2018 I have applied on South East European University Master in Business Administration and Management – Sub field Management. And I have finished all my exams on master degree but started this Pandemic Period with covid19 and I have no chance to make defend my master decertation in public defend. I am here in UK more then 10 years I am passion to study. I have EU Settled Status. I was in search for Integrated PhD ( Master and PhD ) in one. Because I have transcript but I don’t hold certificate in Master degree make me break this process. Please advice to me how to continue.

4th February 2023 at 6:47 pm

I am interested in completing a PhD, but only have a Social Science BA 2:1. Is this possible?

14th November 2023 at 2:38 pm

Firstly, you will have to improve your spelling and grammar before you apply for a PhD degree (even more so since you are a lawyer)!!!

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5 routes to getting a Doctorate

While most of those studying for a PhD take the PhD by thesis pathway, there are five viable routes to achieving a Doctorate, with both full-time and part-time options available

PhD by thesis

This is the most common means of getting a Doctorate. Over the three or four years of research at university, your PhD supervisor will support you as you aim to produce a thesis based on your research proposal .

A thesis is typically 60,000-90,000 words in length - although this can vary between institutions. For instance, the University of Glasgow's College of Social Sciences expects a thesis to be 70,000 to 100,000 words including references, bibliography and appendices, while the University of Cambridge has set an upper limit of 80,000 words.

Once completed, you'll need to defend your PhD thesis in front of a panel of examiners during your viva voce .

Doctorate by publication

This route involves submitting previously published work - such as books, book chapters and journal articles, which together form a coherent body of work and show evidence of an original contribution to a particular field of study.

The PhD by publication route is often taken by mid-career academics that haven't had the opportunity to undertake a standard Doctorate degree.

Generally, a minimum of five to eight published pieces are required, but this varies between institutions and depends on their length. The published work will be assessed to the same rigorous standards as a traditional PhD by thesis.

You must also provide a written supporting statement, which typically ranges from 5,000 to 15,000 words.

For instance, the University of Westminster asks for a commentary of 5,000 words (science and technology subjects) or 10,000 words (arts, social sciences and humanities). On the other hand, Queen Margaret University Edinburgh requires 12,000 to 15,000 words on the rationale and theoretical context for the portfolio of published work.

The work will then be presented to an academic committee. A supervisor will assist you with selecting which publications to submit, as well as guidance on the supporting statement.

Some universities accept only their own graduates for a PhD by publication, while others restrict this route to their academic staff. In general, you should have graduated from your first degree at least seven years ago to be eligible.

For example, The University of Manchester has published its own Guidance for the PhD By Published Work , with eligibility only extending to current members of staff.

Professional Doctorate

This type of Doctorate includes a significant taught component and a smaller research project, and is geared primarily towards current professionals in vocational sectors such as:

• engineering and manufacturing
• teaching and education .

Professional Doctorates are often taken on a part-time basis and can last between two and eight years. Like their standard PhD counterparts, they usually begin in October or January.

While you won't typically be looking to get an academic job , your research is expected to contribute to theory as well as professional practice. Projects often revolve around a real-life issue that affects your employer.

Several professional Doctorates, such as the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy), are accredited by a professional body - for instance, the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC) and The British Psychological Society (BPS) - and may also lead to a professional qualification .

Common titles for graduates of professional Doctorate degrees include:

• Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
• Doctor of Education (EdD)
• Doctor of Engineering (EngD)
• Doctor of Medicine (MD).

Unlike many professional Doctorates, the EngD is typically offered as a full-time course and is aimed at young engineering graduates with little or no professional experience.

Integrated PhD

This four-year qualification, also known as the New Route PhD, involves studying a one-year research Masters degree (MRes) before progressing onto a three-year PhD.

Offered by a select number of universities across the UK, integrated PhDs are supported by the government and the British Council through UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) .

Visit Research Council funding for further information on research and funding for different types of PhD.

The integrated PhD involves a combination of taught materials, practical experience and advanced research. This allows you to learn subject-specific methodologies, while building the transferable skills that will enable you to become a leader in your chosen profession.

Institutions can also develop personalised integrated PhD programmes to meet each student's needs. For example, universities may offer you the opportunity to gain a postgraduate certificate (PGCert) in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education - perfect if you're considering a career as a higher education lecturer .

Online/distance learning PhD

As PhDs are based primarily on independent research rather than time spent in lectures and seminars, distance learning has always been a viable route for many Doctoral students.

PhDs by distance learning offered by course providers such as The Open University are therefore a good option to consider if you've got family or work commitments or are an international student - as this gives you the chance to undertake Doctoral research without having to live close to your chosen institution. It's also a suitable mode of study if your subject requires you to be based in a specific location away from the university.

For the most part, you'll be in touch with your supervisor by phone, email or Skype/Zoom. You'll need to bear in mind that even if you opt for this form of research, you'll generally still need to attend university for one or two weeks of each academic year for meetings and to receive research skills training. Your final exam may be undertaken either face-to-face or virtually.

With online PhDs, you can usually register as a full or part-time student. The level of fees you pay varies between institutions - some charge the same as for a standard PhD while others offer a reduced rate.

Check that any funding you plan to apply for is available to distance learning students, as this isn't always the case.

Search for online/distance learning PhDs .

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• Discover what is a PhD?
• Sort out funding for postgraduate study .
• Consider what to do after completing your PhD .

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Can You Complete Masters Without Dissertation When Studying In The UK?

As of 2019, more than 2.38 million students in the UK held higher education degrees. As higher studies continue to grow in the UK, more and more students are pursuing master’s degrees. Along with this increment in the number of students, the fear of submitting dissertations and the desire to complete masters without dissertation are also increasing. Nowadays, in 2022, more students want their degrees without spending time on a dissertation or even without writing this dreadful document.

As students want to complete their masters without dissertation, then in today’s article, we will discuss the several options they have. Many universities offer these options in the UK, and even the top universities from Russell Group offer those options. So, what are the options that you have? Do not worry a lot, and read the information given below.

Can You Complete A Masters Without Dissertation In The UK

In the British education system, submitting a thesis or a dissertation at the end of your qualification, whether an undergraduate , postgraduate, or doctorate, is necessary. Many students hire dissertation writers UK to complete their dissertations. However, it is now a thing of the past. The recent developments in the British education system have also introduced courses of master’s level which requires no submission of a such lengthy document. So, it is absolutely and 100% possible that you can complete your masters without dissertation while studying in the UK.

Ways To Complete A Master’s Without A Dissertation

From the discussion above, you now have a good idea that completing a degree without a thesis is possible. However, you still do not know that taking which ways you can achieve this. What are the possible pathways to getting a degree this way? Let’s not make you wait further as a brief description of all the pathways is as follows:

1. Enrol Yourself In Master’s Taught Programs

As we mentioned earlier, the British education system has changed a bit. Almost all the universities in the UK now offer two kinds of master’s degrees or programs. Master’s taught programs, and master’s research programs are those two different kinds. Master’s by research means that you have to research something while getting your education. In this mode of study, writing a dissertation is a must.

On the other hand, master’s taught programs do not require submitting a dissertation. These are the programs which are module based. It means that each module is assessed along with your studies, and you do not need to give another assessment in the form of a thesis at the end. Hence, enrolling yourself in master’s taught programs is the first way to complete a masters without dissertation in the UK. Some prominent universities that offer such kinds of master’s studies are as follows:

• University of York
• University of Exeter
• University of Greenwich
• University of Bradford
• University of Westminster

Also Read: How to get good grades in your undergraduate program with a flawless dissertation?

2. Enrol In A Pgdip Course

Postgraduate diplomas or certificates are another way to get your degree which is equivalent to a master’s without writing a dissertation. PGDip is a short form of postgraduate diploma. The content of such a diploma is the same as a master’s degree. It means you study the same 120 credits at the university, covering all the subjects. Then where is the difference? We know this question is circulating in your mind.

So, let me tell you the difference. The difference lies in the mode of assessment. Unlike a master’s degree, where you are assessed by a dissertation at the end of your course, in PGDip, your course instructor assesses you through lectures, seminars, and practical assessments. The mode of assessment entirely depends on your chosen course. For example, if you are a master’s student pursuing a course in Creative Writing, you may be asked to write essays and other different types of writing. The teacher will judge you based on that. Some universities that offer PGDip courses are as follows:

• Staffordshire University
• University of Bolton
• University of Warwick
• University of London
• University of Leicester

3. Seek Admission In Programs That Require Final Year Project (FYP)

The 3 rd option you can avail yourself of to complete masters without dissertation is seeking admission to programs that require FYP. An FYP is a built project that depicts the real-world scenario in a paper or concrete form. There are many universities that offer such programs. All you need to do is select a topic and develop a project prototype depicting the real-world scenario, and that is it. The supervisor will check your FYP and grade you based on that. See, there is no need to write a dissertation by enrolling in such courses.

Some programs that require FYP instead of a dissertation are Architecture, BIM, Geographic Information System etc. There are many other programs like this which you can find on the websites of universities.

4. Taking Professional Training Courses

Want to enrol yourself in a program equivalent to a master’s and also complete the masters without dissertation? If yes, then you do not have any other option instead of enrolling in professional training courses. These courses are equivalent to master’s degrees and do not require a master’s thesis. The plus point of taking such courses is that such programs make you professional and train you to enter your desired field. These programs are specially designed for those students who are employees and want to expand their expertise but cannot give time to research or dissertation. The University of York offers the following courses:

• Education (PGCE) for entry into teaching and training of experienced teachers
• Social Work (MA) enables you to apply and register as a social worker in the UK
• Master of Public Administration (MPA) allows experienced public administrators to come and train themselves further.
• MSc Nursing (Adult) is an accelerated route to becoming an adult nurse without writing a dissertation.

Conclusively, it is 100% possible to complete masters without dissertation when studying in the UK. It is now possible due to the recent developments in the British Education System when the government has approved programs like PGDip, PGCE, professional training courses, and taught master programs. So, what are you waiting for? Enrol yourself in one of these programs and get your degree without a dissertation.

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Got a question about going to uni in the UK? Want to find out more and speak to others about their course/uni? Not sure if you can eat something that's been loafing in your fridge for 3 weeks, and gone a dubious shade of purple-green? This is the place for you. If you want to post a survey for your dissertation, please make sure your post includes all information required by the rules linked in our wiki!

Masters without a bachelors in the UK?

My husband has >20 years of applied technical experience managing teams of 50-100 people and capital budgets $150M/year, but no formal university education. He is interested completing a degree to cap his career. He is working internationally and mentioned friends that earned masters without a bachelors in the UK with credit earned for work experience (I’m from the US and had not heard of this). Has anyone done this or have any recommendations of reputable universities where this is possible? He is interested in studying an engineering/business related field. I.e. engineering management/ project management/ MBA.

I’ve seen other posts regarding employer sentiment of masters without bachelors, but I’m looking specifically for recommendations of organizations/programs where this is possible. I believe the friends mentioned above earned degrees in unrelated fields. The uni websites typically specify that a bachelors is required to apply.

Can I apply for a masters degree without having done a dissertation in my undergrad?

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