Author
Home > Education > What is the Difference Between Thesis and Dissertation?

Guilherme Mazui

•4 minutes to read

What is the Difference Between Thesis and Dissertation?

🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚

The main difference between a thesis and a dissertation is the level at which they are completed and their purpose. A thesis is for a master's degree, while a dissertation is for a doctoral degree. Here are some key differences between the two:

Thesis:

  • Completed for a master's degree.
  • Typically at least 100 pages in length.
  • Expands upon and analyzes existing research.
  • Demonstrates mastery of a field of study.
  • Involves a literature review, data analysis, and original research, but is usually shorter and less comprehensive than a dissertation.

Dissertation:

  • Completed for a doctoral degree.
  • 2-3 times longer than a thesis, often extending to hundreds of pages.
  • Contains mostly original content attributed to the student as the author.
  • Presents significant new insights and is based on original research.
  • Requires more extensive research, original contributions to the field, and a deeper exploration of the research topic.

In general, a dissertation is more focused and in-depth than a thesis, requiring the candidate to conduct research and perform an analysis. Additionally, a dissertation usually requires an oral defense, while a thesis generally does not.

On this page
  • What is the Difference Between Thesis and Dissertation?
  • Comparative Table: Thesis vs Dissertation

    • Comparative Table: Thesis vs Dissertation

    The main difference between a thesis and a dissertation lies in the degree programs they are associated with and the scope of the research involved. Here is a comparison table highlighting the key differences:

    Feature Thesis Dissertation
    Definition A thesis is a presentation of learned and existing information. A dissertation is an extensive research project based on original research.
    Degree Level Typically associated with a master's degree program. Typically associated with a doctoral degree program.
    Research Often involves a literature review, data analysis, and original research, but may not require original research of the same depth as a dissertation. Requires more extensive research, original contributions to the field, and a deeper exploration of the research topic.
    Scope and Depth Shorter and less comprehensive than a dissertation, usually demonstrating mastery of a subject. More extensive, with a focus on developing new theories, challenging existing theories, and providing significant new insights.
    Structure May include a title page, abstract, table of contents, table of figures/maps, body, conclusion, reference list, and appendices. Includes several sections such as title page, acknowledgements, abstract, table of contents, introduction, literature review, theoretical framework, methodology, findings, discussion, conclusion, reference list, and appendices.
    Oral Defense Generally does not require an oral defense. Usually requires an oral defense.

    Keep in mind that the terms "thesis" and "dissertation" are used differently depending on the country. In the UK, a dissertation is associated with both master's and doctoral degree programs, while in the US, a thesis is associated with a master's degree program, and a dissertation is associated with a doctoral degree program.

    Read more:

    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.