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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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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.
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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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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.
(Last updated: 29 May 2024)
We have helped 10,000s of undergraduate, Masters and PhD students to maximise their grades in essays, dissertations, model-exam answers, applications and other materials. If you would like a free chat about your project with one of our UK staff, then please just reach out on one of the methods below.
The summer seems a very long way away, particularly during a COVID lockdown when normal university life seems suspended. But round about now is when students begin thinking about their thesis dissertation. If you were hoping for a flash of inspiration to strike later on, remember that ‘chance only favours the well-prepared mind’!
When it comes to your thesis dissertation, it’s always good to start early. You can gather ideas, run initial thoughts past lecturers, and do some preliminary reading, at leisure. Your library can start retrieving your hard-to-find research materials. And the weeks, sometimes months, they take to arrive won’t stress you out! Meanwhile, you can set to work on initial thesis dissertations ideas. If, for whatever reason, they stop working out, you can discard them without penalty. There's ample time to come up with something new.
Often, initial ideas for the thesis dissertation are far too ambitious. They tend to be loose, baggy monsters, so broad in scope that they cannot tamed with even the most ingenious research and structure. Starting on your thesis dissertation now gives you time to step back and reflect. It gives you time to make good, strategic choices, without kettling yourself into a corner with limited time and no alternatives.
What precisely is a thesis dissertation? Strangely, this is a question often overlooked by both students and lecturers alike. Perhaps where you are studying it’s just called a ‘dissertation’ or a ‘thesis’. At which point, the question becomes: dissertation versus thesis – what’s the difference? This blog post attempts to answer just that question. It also shows how you can move forward in your studies, by understanding the difference between a dissertation and a thesis.
If you are an undergraduate and have been tasked with writing a dissertation, this differs to a dissertation (or thesis) at postgraduate level.
The task you have been set is what many departments at the University of Oxford continue to call the ‘long essay’. This is an extended form that mimics the kind of written work that you’ve already been submitting throughout the year. It may be more ambitious than those other pieces of work. It may use more primary and secondary sources, and will likely be longer. But, overall, it will be similar in form and structure to your usual essays.
Be aware, though, that this is not always the case.
Recently, digital technologies have made research materials more readily accessible to larger audiences. In response, traditional long essays are evolving to resemble higher degree research. Oxford’s Faculty of History has been something of a pioneer in transferring undergraduates from ‘long essays’ to ‘theses’. ‘The thesis offers you the opportunity to engage in primary research on a subject of your own revising, and to work out arguments which are entirely your own, not a synthesis of the conclusions of others’, they explain, ‘[...] Some undergraduate theses are so good that they are ready to be published as they stand’ (University of Oxford, 2020).
The 12,000-word limit of these new undergraduate theses is comparable to that found in peer-reviewed journals. And other universities are following suit. They, too, are making changes towards this new research-based dissertation thesis model.
At the time of writing, these new research-based undergraduate theses are still quite rare. For now, the thesis dissertation remains central to organisation of higher, postgraduate degrees.
Commercial press literature doesn't help much when it comes to the thesis versus dissertation discussion. Savvy writers and publishers are eager for as broad a readership – and as many library catalogue search hits – as possible. Because of this, they tend to hedge their bets when it comes to their choice of title.
Patrick Dunleavy goes with Authoring a PhD Thesis: How to Plan, Draft, Write and Finish a Doctoral Dissertation (2003). Joan Balker chooses Writing Your Dissertation in Fifteen Minutes a Day: A Guide to Starting, Revising, and Finishing Your Doctoral Thesis (1998).
Others bring the terms closer together. Randy L. Jayner chooses Writing the winning thesis or dissertation: a step-by-step guide (2018). R. Murray Thomas markets Avoiding Thesis and Dissertation Pitfalls: 61 Cases of Problems and Solutions (2001).
The thesis versus dissertation terminology gets even more strained as you move beyond the covers. Inger Mewburn’s How to Tame Your PhD (2013) discusses ‘the oddities of the thesis/dissertation process’. Fred Pyrczak does the same in his Completing Your Thesis or Dissertation (2000), ‘a book to help students with the thesis/dissertation’.
It’s a short skip from Nineties-looking ‘thesis/dissertation’ (complete with forward slash or oblique). And, from there, to the hybrid ‘thesis dissertation’ term that we’ve used so far. This is a term that can be spotted in Alet Kruger’s Corpus-Based Translation Studies (2011). It is also in Antonio Blanco’s Medical Biochemistry (2017), and many other books and publications.
As the two terms blend, it is becoming harder to recognise the difference between 'thesis' and 'dissertation'. The appearance of the new 'thesis dissertation' catch-all doesn't help much either.
Historical usage offers a much-needed point of clarity. In the UK, the extended piece of work done at the end of a master’s degree has traditionally been called a ‘dissertation’. This has been the case since the seventeenth century. The long piece of work done as the primary requirement for a PhD has been called a ‘thesis’ for almost as long.
Cultural influences from America have unsettled these once-fixed definitions. Until the early twentieth century, America followed Britain closely when it came to the use of 'thesis' and dissertation.
Recording Dan Dodson vs The State, the Records and Briefs of the Supreme Court (1832) is one of the earliest mentions of the ‘doctoral thesis’ in America. ‘I have a doctoral thesis on this problem and it tends to say that the new building, at least in a short run, didn’t make that much difference’. As late as 1919, the University of Chicago’s Circular of Information, recorded the ‘Master’s Dissertation’ passed.
By the mid-1960s, however, the terms in America had reversed. The archives begin to discuss and cite the ‘Master’s Thesis’ and ‘Doctoral Dissertation’. The reason for this switch remains unclear. The classical etymologies of the terms don’t point to any distinction that might be pertinent to a dissertation vs thesis debate. ‘Dissertation’ comes from the Latin ‘dissertatio’ meaning ‘discussion or debate’. ‘Thesis’ comes from a Greek/late Latin ‘thesis’ meaning ‘placing, a proposition’. The origins of these words seem to allow for a flexible interchangeability. The fact that ‘dissertation’ and ‘thesis’ traded meanings in America indicate as much too.
It is anyone’s guess why America started referring to ‘Master’s Theses’ and ‘Doctoral Dissertations’. And this after more than a century of ‘Master’s Dissertations’ and ‘Doctoral Theses’.
In post-war America, there was an expansion of liberal arts colleges in America. This was accompanied by a proliferation of higher degrees. The master’s degree quickly became more significant, financially, than the doctoral degree. And it may be that, in this transition, the 'thesis' was transplanted over, from doctoral student to master’s, in an act of linguistic grade inflation.
American universities and colleges wanted their master’s students to feel proud and clever. In engineering this, they handed over the ‘thesis’ term from their more advanced doctoral counterparts.
The confusion that we witness in the Dissertation vs Thesis UK debate today is due to the exporting of these revised terms back from America to the UK. Their effect is amplified because of the increasing globalisation of higher education. Their effect is also amplified by a larger trans-Atlantic cultural homogenisation.
We have, then, considered two forces operating on the language of thesis dissertation. There is this American muddling of the traditional thesis/dissertation hierarchy. And there is a second, similar process at work, in the upgrade of undergraduate 'long essay' to 'dissertation' or 'thesis'. It is no longer practical or possible to draw a hard distinction between a thesis and a dissertation.
Interestingly, the confusion has not only resulted in the necessity of the ‘thesis dissertation’ hybrid term. It has, more sinisterly, afforded opportunities for unscrupulous academics to exaggerate their qualifications.
Recently, a public complaint was made against a British lecturer. This lecturer had listed postgraduate qualifications on his staff profile page. All of them were from prestigious universities.
For many years, these went unchecked and unchallenged. But, recently, one member of the public read the lecturer, bragging on social media that he’d been awarded a First for his research thesis.
The member of the public was sceptical of the truth of this claim. Postgraduate research degrees are not classified like undergraduate ones. They were unable to locate the lecturer’s thesis in centralised research catalogues. The complainant soon discovered the lecturer's postgraduate qualifications were actually undergraduate level. They were continuing education diplomas. These diplomas are a fine achievement for those who work hard to get them. But they are a far cry from the postgraduate qualifications from topflight universities that the academic had suggested.
At the time of writing, the academic’s qualifications were being investigated by his own university. They were also being investigated by the national Office for Students.
You can check people's CV claims by knowing about the different types of ‘thesis dissertations’. You can spot fraudulent behaviour when it comes your way! More usefully, knowing those differences allows you to judge what is expected of you, at whichever level you are studying.
Writing a thesis dissertation at any level can be daunting, particularly if you’ve never attempted one before. If you’re unsure what your thesis dissertation should be, the best thing you can do is to read a few recent examples from your department or speak to your dissertation supervisor. How easy this is to do highlights one major difference between thesis and dissertation. What follows, to conclude, is a list of those major differences.
Undergraduate long essays are sometimes called dissertations or theses. These are internally assessed and not made publicly accessible. You will only be able to read them if you borrow them from former students or ask your lecturer for outstanding examples from previous years.
Master’s dissertations, also internally assessed, are stored either in departmental libraries and/or the university library. These can usually be accessed by physically visiting the library. More conveniently, master’s dissertations can also be requested via the UK’s Interlibrary loan agreement.
PhD theses, once externally examined, are stored both in the library of the host university and the national British Library. Theses are searchable through the British Library's online ETHOS catalogue.
As a rule, the greater the ease of public access, the more significant or important the thesis dissertation is deemed to be. The same is true of the use of external staff. Undergraduate and master’s-level courses are internally marked and externally moderated. Higher profile PhD theses are always externally examined.
Finally, undergraduate degrees are the only ones that receive grades or classifications. Master’s and PhD aren't classified – just a simple question of pass or fail.
In the UK, master’s degrees take one or two years of full-time study. The master’s dissertation is a significant component of that study. This is less so the case in special MRes or ‘master’s by research degrees’, where the dissertation plays a more central role in the course of study.
By contrast, PhDs take a minimum of three years. In practice, the PhD thesis is the sole work of a doctoral student. Any other study requirements, if any, are very limited by comparison.
The prescribed word count for thesis dissertations is indicative of the academic level at which they are pitched. Undergraduate dissertations tend to be no longer than 12,000 words. Master’s dissertations run at closer to 40,000. PhD theses usually clock in at 80,000 to 120,000 words. PhDs in Fine Art with a practice component tend to be shorter as they work alongside an exhibition of artwork.
If you are studying for a PhD, it’s worth noting that academic publishers prefer to publish new academics writing towards that minimum. If publishing is one of your postdoctoral ambitions, sticking to the lower limit could save you years of rewriting!
Any student at any level of study can have an original thought, and it is always hugely satisfying to read when it occurs.
At undergraduate level, originality tends to be defined relatively loosely. A thoughtful synthesis of existing ideas is, in practice, usually assessed as original thinking, even if it isn’t, strictly original.
Original thinking an often be found in a master’s dissertation. But the emphasis continues to be on that synthesis of existing knowledge. Master’s students are expected to know the literature around their chosen subject thoroughly and have done their research. They are expected to demonstrate an expert command of its arguments. This is what they are primarily assessed on.
PhD theses, however, are made or broken by their original contribution to knowledge. Expert understanding of the subject tends to be relegated to an early literature review chapter. Out of review emerges a central, truly original idea, that propels the rest of the thesis.
As we have already seen, undergraduate theses can, in exceptional cases, be publishable. PhD theses, on the other hand, are far more ambitious with regards to publication. Their successful completion marks the first step in professional, academic career.
Also Read: Master’s Dissertation vs Undergraduate Dissertation: What’s the Difference?
We hope this blog post has cleared up any confusion you might have had about the difference between dissertation and thesis. A final note: at every level – undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral – meticulous presentation, correct referencing, appropriate register, robust argumentation, and strong evidence for those arguments are always rewarded.
Furthermore, the higher the level of degree, the more all these things are expected. Choosing an academic editor who knows your subject well is important at undergraduate level. But at master’s and PhD level, it becomes crucial. Those higher degrees are predicated on expert knowledge of the field and original contribution to knowledge.
Whoever you approach as an editor, always ask what direct experience they have that relates to your work. If the experience they state seems cursory or adjunct, be prepared to walk away and find someone else more familiar with your chosen field.
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Whether you are a graduate student just starting out in academia or a professor advising a student, making the distinction between a dissertation and a thesis is critically important to writing a strong dissertation and becoming a stronger writer. Unfortunately, the difference remains unclear since the terms are used interchangeably by graduate students, doctoral researchers, academic publishers & universities.
If you’re not sure whether you’re writing a thesis or a dissertation, this article will help you understand the differences between the two whether you’re a PhD or master’s degree student.
While theses and dissertations share many similarities (they are both advanced graduate research papers), they actually refer to two different types of academic writing, and their differences include important concepts such as scope, purpose, length, and research requirements.
Most importantly, the difference between a thesis and a dissertation depends on the level of education. Far beyond being a simple essay, a thesis is for graduate students pursuing a master’s degree while a dissertation is written by doctoral students, also referred to as PhD candidates.
There are a few key differences between a thesis versus a dissertation.
The biggest difference between a thesis and a dissertation is that a thesis makes arguments based on existing research. Meanwhile, a dissertation often requires the PhD candidate to conduct research and then perform an analysis.
More specifically, a thesis often takes the form of a literature review , which is a compilation of research knowledge in a particular field of study that proves one is competent in that subject. On the other hand, a dissertation is a more specific type of research paper written by those working toward a specific doctorate degree that contributes knowledge, theory, or methods to a field of study.
A master’s thesis is an academic research paper that requires a greater degree of research than an undergraduate thesis or term paper. It is marked by a higher standard of writing, and students are expected to demonstrate competence, literacy, and mastery of a subject. It usually takes two or three years to complete. Finally, a master’s degree thesis is usually written in order to obtain a research degree and is not intended to be published separately.
A PhD dissertation is a substantial piece of independent research that is required of all students who are pursuing a doctorate degree. It is a piece of original work that has not been published elsewhere and, most importantly, makes a new contribution to the field. This contribution may be a new way of thinking about an existing topic or even a novel theory. The research performed for a dissertation is usually conducted over a period of several years to half a decade.
-Original and novel testing of ideas and a hypothesis -An independent work or experimentation -Demonstrated competence and understanding of industry techniques as well as their limitations -Thorough knowledge of the literature -Ability to use synthesize and criticize the literature for the research topic -Ability to present the work in an academic capacity (conference, seminar, recitation, defense, etc.) | |
-All of the above characteristics -A novel contribution to the scientific literature not published previously -Original research produced directly by the author (graduate student) -A clear research question/hypothesis clearly answered (or falsified) -Advances in methods, observations, interpretation, etc. |
So how is dissertation writing different from thesis writing?
Now that you know the definitions of a dissertation and thesis, let’s dive into some clear ways in which they differ in structure and other main characteristics.
Length is the most obvious factor in differentiating between writing a thesis or dissertation.
Generally, a doctoral dissertation has greater breadth, depth, and intention than a master’s thesis since it is based on original research. While the standard length of a master’s thesis is around 100 pages , a doctoral dissertation can be upwards of 400-500 pages.
While most students can finish their PhD dissertation or thesis in as little as 1-2 years, it can take as long as 7 years depending on the school, program, and dissertation topic. As doctoral programs have their own formatting requirements, check with your school or university to find out what you need for your own dissertation or thesis. Most dissertations are organized into chapters, but the number of chapters varies as well.
A thesis and dissertation are both graduate-level research reports. This means they require students to investigate and report on a specific topic. But what is the difference in the scale of research between a master’s versus doctoral degree? The answer comes down to how much and what type of data you collect .
A master’s thesis is limited to secondary or reported knowledge . This knowledge has already been published, analyzed, and scrutinized in the literature. A thesis does not typically offer anything new in that regard. Your purpose is usually to write a comprehensive literature review on a novel or underreported topic using already-reported data.
-Academic journal articles -Scholarly books and publications -Academic periodicals and magazines -Survey reportsIndustry and corporate reports -Government data (census, environmental, etc.) -Published statistics -Prior studies |
On the other hand, a doctoral dissertation reports on novel data and is published so it can be scrutinized by others. It culminates in your dissertation defense.
-All of the above sources -Laboratory experiments and investigations (e.g. basic sciences) -First-hand surveys, interviews, and focus groups (e.g. psychology, social sciences) -Unpublished data (i.e. verified data from experiments but too narrow to publish) -Abstracts, reviews, and conference presentations by other researchers |
The above lists clearly show that a PhD researcher and dissertation writer must have specific hands-on experience about not only the result of others’ research but also how the researchers obtained the data. A dissertation must venture into criticism of how other studies performed their experiments, whereas a master’s student will only report on and evaluate the results.
As mentioned above, a thesis is more of a literature review written to demonstrate competence and mastery of a field of study. In short, you are a reliable “reporter” of information related to that subject. A thesis shows that you know the technical jargon, understand the subject, are familiar with industry tools, and can translate that information to a general audience. This is why a master’s degree is sufficient and often preferred for industry jobs.
In contrast, a doctoral dissertation goes beyond simply using the building blocks of your subject and actually creates new tools, knowledge, and theories to advance the subject as a whole. If a master’s degree holder is like a seasoned Rolling Stone journalist, then a doctorate is the band/musician who actually makes the music.
The benefits of earning a graduate degree are huge. According to the US Census Bureau , those with an advanced degree earn 3.7 times as much as a high school dropout, and 13.1% hold a master’s, professional, or doctorate degree. If you’re a curious undergraduate student thinking of applying to graduate school, which is the right choice?
In short, a dissertation is more focused and in-depth than a thesis. While a doctoral dissertation is based on original research, a thesis is often an extension or review of others’ research in order to demonstrate literacy. Further, a dissertation can be used as the basis or subject of a thesis, but not vice versa.
So far, we’ve focused a lot on differences such as research and purpose, but in the end, a thesis or dissertation is a written document that requires skill, focus, discipline, subject knowledge, organization, and scheduling.
For non-native English speakers, the challenge is especially difficult since English is the lingua franca of academia and research.
From body spacing and pagination, to font size and citation formatting, the dissertation guidelines are exhaustive. Even worse, they vary by school. So besides the actual English writing and grammar, graduate students must worry about consistency, formatting, nomenclature, and terminology. That’s quite the burden!
This is why it’s very common for graduate students, especially ESL and foreign ones, to seek out dissertation editing services that specifically cater to the academic needs of researchers and students.
Here are just a few reasons why dissertation proofreading is so helpful and what these editors do:
Lastly, most PhD advisors recommend that students seek out professional editing services , specifically thesis editing or dissertation editing , since professors prefer to assess the actual research content of a dissertation, not mundane writing errors. Any graduate student reading this knows professors don’t like their time to be wasted!
Be sure to check out other academic resources on how to improve your academic manuscript and the benefits of proofreading and editing.
And try the Wordvice FREE Citation Generator, which provides citations for four academic formatting styles: APA Citation Generator , MLA Citation Generator , Chicago Citation Generator , and Vancouver Citation Generator .
Know the Differences & Comparisons
Different countries define the words thesis and dissertation differently, i.e. in some countries they are used interchangeably, while in some countries thesis is related to bachelor’s or master’s degree course and dissertation is used in the context of a doctorate degree, whereas in some countries the reverse is true. In India, PhD scholars have to submit a thesis, while M.Phil students submit a dissertation.
So, the meaning of the two words varies from country to country. Broadly speaking, in a master’s degree course, all the students have to submit their thesis, which is nothing but the final project, to obtain their degree, whereas one needs to submit a dissertation, to acquire doctorate degree.
Come let’s move further to understand the difference between thesis and dissertation.
Comparison chart, similarities, research process.
Basis for Comparison | Thesis | Dissertation |
---|---|---|
Meaning | Thesis refers to a concept, theory or idea, proposed as a statement for consideration, particularly for discussion, indicating the student's knowledge about the topic. | Dissertation is a lengthened written research work on a specific topic chosen by the student, which answers a specific research question, chosen by the student. |
What is it? | A compilation of research demonstrating the candidate's knowledge about the field of study. | Addition of new knowledge or theory, to the subject under study. |
Function | To claim - a hypothesis | To describe the hypothesis in detail. |
Part of | Graduate or Master's degree program. | Doctorate degree program. |
Objective | To test the candidate's understanding and knowledge in the specialization subject. | To test the candidate's ability to undertake independent research and understand the subject. |
Length | 100 pages or more. | Few 100 pages. |
The word ‘thesis’ is originated from the Greek language which means “ something put forth “. Thesis implies a research document in written or printed form, prepared after conducting novel research on a particular topic and submitted to the university, for an academic degree.
Basically, it is meant to profess “ what the candidate believes and what they aim to prove .” Thesis prepared by the students should be good enough to indicate the actual thought behind the research, rather than just retelling the existing facts. And to do so, students need to collect a plethora of information and a lot of background reading, to have sufficient knowledge about the subject, to develop questions.
Students who pursue a master’s degree or professional degree course, are required to complete the thesis in their last semester, under the guidance of an Assistant Professor.
While preparing the thesis, first of all, the candidate needs to research the topic, for which he/she formulates a proposition, on the basis of the research work previously performed in the concerned field. The student analyzes this research work and gives his/her opinion thereon, on the information collected, and the way information is associated with the topic of study.
The dissertation is a Latin term which refers to “ discussion “. In common terms, a dissertation is a structured research work, in which the Doctorate in Philosophy (PhD) scholars have to demonstrate their findings with a logical argument, as an answer to the proposition chosen by them.
The dissertation is prepared at the end of the PhD program , under a guide, who teaches, instructs and guides the candidate, regarding the selection of the topic, which is not just interesting but unique, original and contestable.
It is a kind of assessment which checks the researching skills and the knowledge of the students and their ability to defend the argument, which forms the basis for their final grade. It includes abstract, introduction, methodology, literature review, findings, discussion, conclusion and recommendation .
The candidate uses the research of other people, as a guide to arrive at and prove/disprove the own novel hypothesis, theory or concept. It takes years to complete the research work, i.e. to gather information, to compile the information in written form, to edit the material and cite the document.
The dissertation is based on original research, in the sense that the candidates have to decide the topic relating to his/her field of study, on which no primary research has been conducted, and arrive at a hypothesis, to perform original research so as to prove or disprove the hypothesis.
The difference between thesis and dissertation are discussed hereunder:
While pursuing a higher degree course, the student needs to submit his/her research work, i.e. thesis or dissertation. Both present the candidate’s research and findings on the specific topic. Further, both are prepared under the guidance of an expert in the concerned field.
The two types of research work, usually end up with an oral defence in front of the panel of examiners, wherein they ask the student, question relating to their study, findings and final paper. Its main aim is to check the student’s ability to defend their research work.
Ma Beatriz N Pangiinan says
September 3, 2023 at 1:59 am
this is very helpful
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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.
Gabriel Chukwuemeka is a graduate of Physics; he loves Geography and has in-depth knowledge of Astrophysics. Gabriel is an ardent writer who writes for Stay Informed Group and enjoys looking at the world map when he is not writing.
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Many students get confused between a Dissertation and a Thesis. A thesis is an academic essay or a research paper that is written as a part of a higher degree. The aim of a thesis is to prove your opinion through a statement. It has a specific length limit and takes less time to complete. It is extremely important for a student to complete and submit their thesis on time to obtain a Master’s Degree. On the other hand, a dissertation is an academic piece of writing based on one’s independent research. It is meant to be submitted as a part of one’s PhD , Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree. It can take several months or even years to complete a dissertation. It prepares students to develop problem-solving, project management and numerical skills. Read the whole blog to understand the difference between a thesis and a dissertation, its structure, types of dissertations, thesis and dissertation in India , US , EU and more.
Length | No specific length | 100-150 Pages |
Degree | Doctorate degree | Bachelors or Master’s degree program |
Submission | Done during the doctoral program | Should be submitted during the completion of a graduate program |
Purpose | Done to contribute to the field of study through the research | To mark an end to their study program |
Also Read: What is Research Proposal?
Difference between a dissertation and a thesis, major difference between a dissertation and a thesis, structure of a dissertation, structure of a thesis, similarities between a dissertation and a thesis.
The main difference is the purpose of the submission. A Dissertation is meant to be submitted with the aim of projecting the student’s skills and experience throughout the course of their doctoral program. While a Thesis is meant to be submitted to complete one’s master’s degree.
The primary distinction between a thesis and a dissertation is that a thesis is based on previously conducted research.
A dissertation, on the other hand, will almost certainly require the doctorate student to conduct their own research and analysis. Another significant distinction is that a thesis is for master’s students and a dissertation is for PhD students.
The structural difference between the two lies in the length of the document. A dissertation is a lot lengthier than a thesis which is meant to be at least 100 pages long. The outline of both a dissertation and a thesis is quite similar. Below mentioned are the structures:
The structure must include the 5 chapters of a dissertation that are mentioned below:
Here is the typical outline of a Thesis for your reference:
Some people use the word dissertation as a synonym for a thesis which is not correct. The purpose of a dissertation and a thesis is what makes it complex to understand the difference between the two. This blog has covered almost everything you needed to know about the difference between the two. However, both of them have a lot of similarities but are done for obtaining different degrees. While writing any of them, remember that it is only adding to your skills. The aim is to improve your academic and research skills.
Those who are pursuing a PhD are required to submit a thesis while the ones pursuing an MPhil must submit a dissertation.
A thesis must be submitted to complete a PhD Degree while a dissertation is supposed to be part of a research project.
The purpose of submitting a dissertation and a thesis is completely different. A dissertation is an independent research project to obtain a Doctoral Degree in the US, while a thesis is a shorter research project that is required to obtain a Master’s Degree.
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A master’s dissertation is generally between 15,000 and 20,000 words.
The top PhD subjects include physical therapy, education, administration, chemistry, political science and technology.
Yes, you can complete a PhD Degree in 2 years.
Because it is based on original research, a doctoral dissertation has greater breadth, depth, and intention than a master’s thesis. A master’s thesis is typically 100 pages long, and a doctorate dissertation can be 400-500 pages long.
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Daman is an author with profound expertise in writing engaging and informative content focused on EdTech and Study Abroad. With a keen understanding of these domains, Daman excels at creating complex concepts into accessible, reader-friendly material. With a proven track record of insightful articles, Daman stands as a reliable source for providing content for EdTech and Study Abroad.
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As nouns the difference between thesis and theses, derived terms, related terms, external links.
Thesis support: your research question.
Permanent URI for this community https://digital.lib.washington.edu/handle/1773/4888
Delayed public access, commonly known as an “embargo,” postpones public distribution of the thesis or dissertation that has been approved and filed with the university. In some cases, it may be reasonable and appropriate to put in place an embargo that delays public release, but only in narrowly prescribed circumstances affecting intellectual property rights (such as when a patent is being filed), to satisfy requirements for the review of grant-sponsored research, to allow time for the submission of content to a peer-reviewed journal, or for potential consideration of content by an academic or commercial press. Such an embargo must be limited in time.
If delayed public access is necessary due to the purposes set forth in the previous paragraph, a graduate student should select this option when uploading the thesis or dissertation to ProQuest, and a completed and signed Request for Embargo (Delayed Release) of Thesis and Dissertation form should be submitted to the Graduate School.
The delayed release requested at the time of submission will postpone public distribution of/access to a thesis or dissertation via both ProQuest and the University at Buffalo’s institutional repository (UBIR) . Students may request embargoes for up to one year or two years, with longer time periods considered by exception. If a delayed release is approved, ProQuest and UBIR will display only the graduate’s citation and abstract for the duration of the embargo. The full text of the graduate’s thesis or dissertation will become available for public access only after the embargo expires. The UB Libraries will archive and preserve the manuscript in perpetuity.
Exception Requests for Extended Embargoes
Under rare circumstances and prior to the filing of the thesis or dissertation, the dean of the Graduate School may approve requests for embargoes beyond the two-year limit. A request for such an exception to UB policy should be made as soon as the graduate student’s master’s or doctoral committee is aware of the need to do so.
The Graduate School is the first point of contact for exception requests. The graduate student and their major advisor must submit a formal request for a time-delimited extended embargo using the Request for Embargo (Delayed Release) of Thesis and Dissertation form available from the Graduate School. The request must be made prior to filing the thesis or dissertation. Each request will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. The Graduate School’s review of such requests will take the following factors into consideration:
When an exception request is approved by the Graduate School, the library will be notified to ensure that UBIR suppresses access until the end of the approved extended embargo period.
Post-Submission Requests for Delayed Public Access
Students who wish to delay public access must select this option at the time they submit their theses or dissertations to the Graduate School via ProQuest. Requests to embargo a thesis or dissertation after the manuscript has been filed generally are not allowed. Post-submission embargo requests to the UBIR are permissible only in exceptional circumstances and require Graduate School review and approval.
The Graduate School is the first point of contact for post-submission embargo requests to the UBIR. To make such a request, which is considered only for exceptional circumstances, the graduate student must submit a Request for Embargo (Delayed Release) of Thesis and Dissertation form to the Graduate School detailing the reason for the request for an embargo and the reason for the delay in seeking the embargo, and including an explanatory letter from the thesis or dissertation committee chair. Each request will be reviewed on a case-by- case basis.
ProQuest allows graduate students to embargo their manuscripts at any time and for any duration, but cautions that “the rules and policies around dissemination related to a university’s institutional repositories are created and managed separately by the university”.*
ProQuest will notify UB’s Graduate School of each request for a post-submission embargo. Upon receiving the notification from ProQuest, the Graduate School will send an email to the graduate student reminding them of the university policy restricting delayed release. The Graduate School will approve of such post-submission requests in accordance with the procedure set forth below for review of post-submission requests.
Review of Post-Submission Embargo Requests
The review of a post-submission embargo request by the Graduate School will take the following factors into consideration:
In the rare cases in which a post-submission embargo request is approved by the Graduate School, the Graduate School will notify the library and UBIR to withhold release for the approved embargo period.
*ProQuest, Embargoes and Restrictions
Analytical essay thesis statement generator.
Analytical essays delve deep into the intricacies of a subject, offering insightful interpretations and evaluations. At the heart of these essays lies the analytical thesis statement – a crucial element that encapsulates the analytical perspective you’ll explore. This guide explores a range of analytical thesis statement examples, guiding you through the process of creating thought-provoking statements. Learn to dissect complex subjects, develop critical arguments, and master the art of crafting compelling analytical thesis statements.
An analytical thesis statement is a concise declaration that outlines the main focus of an analytical essay. It presents the central argument or analysis the essay will explore, providing a roadmap for readers to understand the specific perspective, interpretation, or evaluation the writer intends to present. Unlike other types of thesis statements, an analytical thesis statement does not simply present a fact but delves into the “how” and “why” of a subject.
Example: “In F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel ‘The Great Gatsby,’ Jay Gatsby’s excessive pursuit of wealth and social status serves as a commentary on the illusory nature of the American Dream, highlighting the emptiness and moral decay that often accompany unchecked ambition.”
In this analytical thesis statement, the focus is on analyzing the character of Jay Gatsby and his actions as a reflection of larger themes within the novel. The strong thesis statement goes beyond a surface-level observation and delves into the deeper analysis of Gatsby’s character and its symbolic significance in relation to the American Dream.
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An analytical essay’s thesis statement for high school sets the stage for the examination of a topic, delving into its complexities and drawing insights based on evidence.
Middle school thesis statements for analytical essays examine topics in a straightforward manner, building critical thinking skills.
College-level thesis statements delve deeper into complex topics, offering nuanced insights and arguments.
Beginner-level thesis statements offer clear and simple insights, setting the foundation for deeper analytical thinking.
Starting an analytical thesis requires a clear understanding of the topic, a comprehensive evaluation of the relevant materials, and identifying the primary elements to be analyzed.
A good analytical thesis possesses several characteristics:
An analytical essay thesis statement is the cornerstone of any analytical essay, offering a concise insight into the writer’s analysis. Crafting it requires a clear understanding of the topic, supporting evidence, and a focused approach. By adopting best practices and refining one’s skills, a writer can effectively convey their analytical insights, enhancing the overall impact of their essay.
Text prompt
Write an Analytical Essay Thesis Statement on the symbolism in
Create an Analytical Essay Thesis Statement analyzing the effects of global warming.
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The main difference between a dissertation and thesis is the scope of the research. A dissertation develops unique and original concepts in a particular field of research, whereas a thesis is usually a culmination of existing research. The main purpose of a writing a dissertation is to add new findings to the existing literature in that field ...
The other big difference is that a thesis is for master's students and the dissertation is for PhD students. Structural Differences Between a Thesis and a Dissertation. Structurally, the two pieces of written analysis have many differences. A thesis is at least 100 pages in length; A dissertation is 2-3x that in length; A thesis expands upon ...
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 ...
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. Structure. The main differences in structure between a thesis and a dissertation are in the scope and complexity. Length
How Long Is a Thesis vs. a Dissertation? One of the primary differences between thesis and dissertation papers is their length. While a thesis might be anywhere from 40 to 80 pages long, a dissertation can easily run from 100 to 300. It's important to note that these numbers depend on the specific program and university.
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 ...
One of the key differences between a thesis vs dissertation lies in their length and depth of research: Thesis. 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 ...
The difference in the length of a PhD dissertation vs. masters thesis is noteworthy. A thesis is typically between 50 and 100 pages in length and is written during the final year of a master's degree program. A dissertation is generally 100 to 400 pages long and may involve several years of work. Completion process.
The primary difference between a thesis and a dissertation is the time when they are completed. As mentioned earlier, a thesis is presented at the culmination of a master's program, whereas, a dissertation is presented to earn a Ph.D. A thesis is a compilation of research ensuring that the researcher is well-informed and has knowledge about ...
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.
The words ' dissertation ' and 'thesis' both refer to a large written research project undertaken to complete a degree, but they are used differently depending on the country: In the UK, you write a dissertation at the end of a bachelor's or master's degree, and you write a thesis to complete a PhD.
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 ...
The main difference between a thesis and a dissertation is when they are completed. The thesis is a project that marks the end of a master's program, while the dissertation occurs during doctoral study. The two are actually quite different in their purpose, as well. A thesis is a compilation of research that proves you are knowledgeable about ...
Difference Between Dissertation and Thesis: An Overview 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 ...
Difference Between Thesis and Dissertation. 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 ...
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.
Thesis and dissertation: a brief history . As the two terms blend, it is becoming harder to recognise the difference between 'thesis' and 'dissertation'. The appearance of the new 'thesis dissertation' catch-all doesn't help much either. Historical usage offers a much-needed point of clarity.
Generally, a doctoral dissertation has greater breadth, depth, and intention than a master's thesis since it is based on original research. While the standard length of a master's thesis is around 100 pages, a doctoral dissertation can be upwards of 400-500 pages. While most students can finish their PhD dissertation or thesis in as little ...
The difference between thesis and dissertation are discussed hereunder: Thesis refers to an extraordinary piece of writing prepared after a deep research on a topic as a part of university or degree program, wherein a particular idea or concept is put forward as a statement for further discussion. On the other hand, the dissertation implies a ...
Dissertation vs Thesis: Difference between Dissertation and 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 a master's student near the end of their course of study.
Difference Between a Dissertation and a Thesis. The main difference is the purpose of the submission. A Dissertation is meant to be submitted with the aim of projecting the student's skills and experience throughout the course of their doctoral program. While a Thesis is meant to be submitted to complete one's master's degree.
A thesis is typically a deep investigation of a certain topic, frequently with a case study or concentrated analysis, that reflects the student's academic experience at the master's level.
Noun. ( theses ) A statement supported by arguments. A written essay, especially one submitted for a university degree. * Goldsmith. I told them of the grave, becoming, and sublime deportment they should assume upon this mystical occasion, and read them two homilies and a thesis of my own composing, to prepare them. (logic) An affirmation, or ...
Describe the importance of a strong research question Identify methods for exploring existing literature Understand the difference between keywords and controlled ...
Some dissertations and theses are available via University of Washington IP address only. For access outside the UW community, please request titles via Interlibrary Loan from your local academic or public library. Browse. Subcommunities and Collections By Issue Date By Author By Title By Subject By Subject Category
The graduate student and their major advisor must submit a formal request for a time-delimited extended embargo using the Request for Embargo (Delayed Release) of Thesis and Dissertation form available from the Graduate School. The request must be made prior to filing the thesis or dissertation. Each request will be evaluated on a case-by-case ...
Analytical essays delve deep into the intricacies of a subject, offering insightful interpretations and evaluations. At the heart of these essays lies the analytical thesis statement - a crucial element that encapsulates the analytical perspective you'll explore.