What is the Difference Between a Thesis and a Dissertation?

What is the Difference Between a Thesis and a Dissertation?

The main difference between a thesis and a dissertation lies in their scope, purpose, and the academic level at which they are written.

1. Academic Level:

   • A thesis is written for a Master’s degree, while a dissertation is written for a Doctoral degree (Ph.D.).

2. Research Depth:

   • A thesis demonstrates your ability to review and analyze existing research on a topic. It may involve some original research or a new perspective but generally focuses on existing literature.

   • A dissertation, on the other hand, requires original research. You are expected to create new knowledge, whether by conducting experiments, collecting data, or developing a new theory.

3. Length and Detail:

   • A thesis is typically shorter, often around 40-100 pages.

   • A dissertation is much longer, usually 150-300 pages, as it requires an in-depth study of the research problem.

4. Purpose:

   • A thesis primarily summarizes and evaluates existing research to support the central research question.

   • A dissertation aims to contribute new knowledge or theories to the field, often offering an original perspective on a well-defined research problem.

5. Timeframe:

   • A thesis is completed within a shorter timeframe, usually 1-2 years.

   • A dissertation can take several years to complete due to the extensive research and original contributions required.