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Master Thesis Vs Dissertation 2
Master Thesis Vs Dissertation 2
What is the Difference Between a Thesis and a Dissertation?
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If you're contemplating graduate school, you may have heard that a comprehensive paper is
required to graduate, and you likely wonder what exactly is the difference between a thesis
and a dissertation. It's good that you're thinking ahead. There are definite differences
between the two terms, though they are sometimes used interchangeably and often
confused. Both papers are similar in their structure, as they contain an introduction, literary
review, body, conclusion, bibliography and appendix. Beyond that, the similarities basically
end. Let's delve further into the definition of each and the differences between them.
Basic Thesis and Dissertation Differences
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 the information learn
throughout your graduate program. A dissertation is your opportunity during a doctorate
program to contribute new knowledge, theories or practices to your field. The point is to come
up with an entirely new concept, develop it and defend its worth.
Structural Differences Between a Thesis and a Dissertation
A master's thesis is kind of like the sorts of research papers you are familiar with from
undergrad. You research a topic, then analyze and comment upon the information you
gleaned and how it relates to the particular subject matter at hand. The point of the thesis is
to show your ability to think critically about a topic and to knowledgeably discuss the
information indepth. Also, with a thesis, you usually take this opportunity to expand upon a
subject that is most relevant to a specialty area you wish to pursue professionally. In a
dissertation, you utilize others' research merely as guidance in coming up with and proving
your own unique hypothesis, theory or concept. The bulk of the information in a dissertation
is attributed to you.
Finally, there is a difference in length between these two major works. A master's thesis
should be at least 100 pages in length, likely a bit beyond that. However, a doctoral
dissertation should be much longer, because they involve a great deal of background and
research information, along with every detail of your proposal and how you arrived at the
information, according to Purdue University. A dissertation is an extremely complex work. It
will likely be two, possibly even three, times the length of a thesis. You will receive guidance
from a faculty member who will serve as your dissertation adviser. This adviser will be there
to point you in the right direction if you are stuck, can assist in locating resources and ensure
that your proposal is on the right track.
Related Resource: Capstone Project
Each school and program has its own guidelines for what a thesis and dissertation should
contain, as well as its structure. However, you now have an overview of the difference
between a thesis and a dissertation.
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