Dissertation vs. thesis.

A thesis and a dissertation are both long-form academic works, but they serve different purposes and are typically completed at different stages of a student’s academic journey.

Understanding the difference between a thesis vs. dissertation can help you prepare for academic expectations and influence how you plan your time and approach. The meaning of these terms can also differ depending on where you are in the world.

What is the difference between a thesis and a dissertation?

The difference between dissertation vs. thesis is that a dissertation is required for a doctoral degree and is similar to a book in terms of depth and length, while a thesis is required for a master’s degree and is more like an article. The opposite terminology is used in the UK, and both terms can be used interchangeably in non-academic contexts.

The requirements for both types of writing depend on the field:

• In the humanities, a thesis or dissertation explores human culture through qualitative research and narrative, as well as descriptive writing.
• In the sciences, a thesis or dissertation investigates natural phenomena using empirical, quantitative research and structured, systematic writing.

What is a thesis?

A thesis is a scholarly document that explores a specific topic, often synthesizing and analyzing existing research to argue a particular point. It does not necessarily require original research, but it may involve smaller-scale studies, unique interpretations of existing data, and suggestions for how research could be applied for further investigation. For instance, a business professional may create a thesis proposing how a specific business strategy could be implemented in a company, or a healthcare student could detail how a new treatment idea could benefit patients with a specific medical condition.

A thesis is typically written to fulfill the requirements for a master’s degree, but some undergraduate programs also require a thesis as a capstone project. A thesis demonstrates a student’s ability to conduct rigorous research, synthesize information, and effectively communicate complex ideas within the scope of their field.

The purposes of a thesis include:

• Demonstrating mastery of a topic
• Developing research skills
• Strengthening analytical and communication skills
• Laying a foundation for further study
• Solving practical problems

What is a dissertation?

A dissertation is a major academic project that contributes something new to a specific field of study. It involves conducting original research and offering novel perspectives that expand the body of knowledge. By providing unique analysis or new data, a dissertation tests a hypothesis or develops a theory. For instance, an educator may want to design a dissertation based on a new teaching method, or a speech pathology student may want to explore improved learning methods for autistic students through music.

A dissertation is typically required to earn a doctoral degree (PhD). Academic advisors supervise the process, but the candidate is responsible for generating the research idea, driving the project to completion, and presenting and defending the dissertation before an academic board. A successful dissertation shows that a scholar can design, execute, and explain independent research, which means they are ready to contribute to their academic or professional field.

The purposes of a dissertation include:

• Attaining academic advancements
• Contributing to knowledge
• Publishing research
• Establishing professional credibility
• Building an institution’s reputation

Knowing the difference between dissertation and thesis is the first step. Whichever one you’re writing, an academic research paper is no small undertaking. You can save time and ensure your work is polished using Adobe tools. When you’re done writing, you’ll need to convert your file from Word to PDF for final submission. Once your work is in PDF form, you can make changes or respond to feedback using the PDF editor.

What is the difference between a thesis and a thesis statement?

The word thesis comes from Greek origins and means something like an intellectual proposition. Both a thesis paper and a thesis statement put forth an idea, but a thesis paper is a longer, more detailed exploration of that idea. Both can be called informally by the simple term thesis.

A thesis statement is a sentence or paragraph that makes an argument and identifies your point of view at the start of any form of argumentative or research writing. It can also be called a thesis. It should clearly state your position and reasoning. Plus, it should give a preview of your paper and summarize the key points of your argument.

Which is better, a thesis or a dissertation?

Neither is better — they just have different purposes — but in the US, a dissertation is longer and requires more time and effort. And it is associated with a higher level of education:

• A dissertation is required for a doctoral degree (PhD).
• A thesis may be required for a bachelor’s or master’s degree.

Frequently asked questions.