Difference between a Dissertation and a Thesis
A dissertation is a detailed research project that analyzes and synthesizes existing research in a specific area of study, while a thesis is a more in-depth and original research project that contributes new knowledge to the field.
The difference between a dissertation and a thesis must be understood before embarking on a research project. Regarding research, “dissertation” and “thesis” are often used interchangeably.
This article will provide a detailed comparison by explaining the difference between a dissertation and a thesis, including structure, length, and content differences.
Table of Contents
What is a dissertation?
A dissertation is typically the final research required for students pursuing an undergraduate or master’s degree.
What is a thesis?
On the other hand, a thesis is a much more extensive piece of research required for students seeking a PhD.
Structure of a dissertation and a thesis
One of the key differences between a dissertation and a thesis is its structure. A dissertation is typically structured in a standard format, including an introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion.
The structure of a thesis, however, is often more complex, with multiple chapters and subheadings, as well as a broader range of research methods and techniques.
Length of a dissertation and a thesis
Another critical difference between a dissertation and a thesis is their length.
A dissertation is typically between 8,000 and 15,000 words, whereas a thesis can be much longer, with some PhD theses exceeding 100,000 words.
Content of a dissertation and a thesis
The content of a dissertation is typically less comprehensive than a thesis. A dissertation typically focuses on a specific research question or problem. In contrast, a thesis will typically be a much more in-depth examination of a particular topic or subject area.
A PhD thesis typically includes a more extensive literature review, a more detailed methodology, and a more in-depth analysis of results and conclusions.
Timeframe of a dissertation and thesis
The timeframe for completing a dissertation is typically shorter than that for a PhD thesis.
An undergraduate and master’s dissertation can typically be completed within a year, whereas a PhD thesis can take several years.
Importance of a dissertation and thesis
The dissertation and the thesis are highly valuable pieces of work that are essential for students to complete to attain their degrees.
A dissertation allows students to demonstrate their understanding of a particular subject area and engage in independent research.
On the other hand, a PhD thesis is a much more extensive work requiring a much higher level of expertise and understanding. A PhD thesis is a crucial component of a PhD student’s research journey and is a key indicator of their ability to conduct high-quality research.
Difference between a dissertation and a thesis
| FEATURE | DISSERTATION | THESIS |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 8,000 to 20,000 words | 50,000 to 100,000 words or more |
| Purpose | To demonstrate mastery of a subject | Originality, contribution to the field, methodology, and defence of research findings in a viva voce |
| Focus | Narrow, specific topic | Broad and in-depth |
| Level of Originality | Limited original research | Significant original research and contribution to the field |
| Time to Complete | 6 months to 2 years | 3 to 7 years or more |
| Degree | Undergraduate or Master’s | PhD or Professional Doctorate e.g. DBA. |
| Assessment Criteria | Knowledge and application of subject matter | PhD or Professional Doctorate, e.g. DBA. |
Note: The length and time to complete can vary depending on the university, the program, and the individual student’s research project.
Are the assessment criteria different for a dissertation and a thesis?
A dissertation and a thesis have different assessment criteria. A dissertation usually is evaluated based on the student’s knowledge and application of the subject matter, whereas a thesis is typically evaluated based on its originality, contribution to the field, methodology, and defence of research findings.
In other words, while a dissertation demonstrates mastery of a subject, a thesis contributes new knowledge to the field.
Moreover, a thesis is usually a longer and more detailed research project, and it typically takes several years to complete.
Can a thesis and dissertation be published?
Both a thesis and a dissertation can be published. It is quite common for graduate students to publish their research in academic journals or present it at conferences.
However, a thesis’s publishing process may differ slightly from a dissertation’s. As an example, a thesis can be published as a book or monograph, while a dissertation may be published as a chapter in an edited book or series of articles.
A thesis or dissertation may also be required to be published in an open-access format by some universities, while others may offer students the option of choosing between traditional publishing or open-access publishing.
In the end, a student’s decision to publish a thesis or dissertation will be determined by both their academic program requirements and their research goals.
How significant is the contribution to the field required for a thesis and a dissertation?
The significance of the contribution to the field required for a thesis or dissertation varies depending on the academic discipline, the specific research topic, and the level of degree being pursued.
Generally, however, thesis contributions are expected to be more significant than dissertation contributions.
Usually, a thesis involves a longer and more in-depth research project involving the development and defence of an original argument. Dissertations, on the other hand, tend to analyze and synthesize existing research in a particular field.
Can a thesis or dissertation include previously published work?
There is no problem including previously published work in a thesis or dissertation, but it depends on the program’s requirements and the institution’s policy.
Students may be allowed to include previously published articles or book chapters in their dissertation or thesis, while others may require that the research be entirely original.
Students must acknowledge the source and obtain permission from the original publisher (if they are not the original publishers), if they include previously published work in their thesis or dissertation.
A student must also demonstrate how the previously published work contributes to the overall research project and the original argument or theory in this paper.
Can a thesis or dissertation include personal opinions or subjective interpretations?
While a thesis or dissertation is expected to be a scholarly work, it is possible for the author to include personal opinions or subjective interpretations, so long as they are supported by evidence and do not compromise the academic integrity of the study.
Sometimes the author of a thesis or dissertation may have to express a personal opinion or interpretation in order to take a stance or defend an argument.
Aside from providing evidence to support their position, the author must also demonstrate their understanding of the relevant literature.
Conclusion: Dissertation vs Thesis
In conclusion, there is some key difference between a dissertation and a thesis, including differences in structure, length, content, and importance.
Understanding these differences is essential for students embarking on a research project and will help you choose the right degree for your needs and goals.
References
- University College Dublin. “Dissertation/Thesis“
- University of the People. “Dissertation vs Thesis: The Differences That Matter“
- Wikipedia. “Thesis“
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