Citing a thesis or dissertation published online but not from a database

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This citation will depend on the citation style you are using. Here’s how you can do in APA, MLA, and Chicago styles:

APA Style:

Author’s Last name, First Initial. Middle Initial. (Year Published). Title of thesis or dissertation. (Doctoral dissertation or Master’s thesis). Name of institution, Location. URL.

For Example:

  • Smith, J. P. (2020). Study on environmental sustainability in manufacturing industries. (Doctoral dissertation). Harvard University, Cambridge, MA. https://www.example.com/thesis

MLA Style:

Author’s Last name, First name. “Title of dissertation or thesis.” Name of institution, Year of Publication. Web. Day Month Year Accessed.

For Example:

  • Smith, John P. “Study on environmental sustainability in manufacturing industries.” Harvard University, 2020. Web. 25 April 2021.

Chicago Style:

Author’s Last name, First name. “Title of Dissertation/Thesis.” Ph.D. diss., or Master’s thesis. Name of institution, Year of Publication. URL

For Example:

Smith, John P. “Study on environmental sustainability in manufacturing industries.” Ph.D. diss., Harvard University, 2020. https://www.example.com/thesis

Please replace the URL, author’s name, title, year, and institution name with the appropriate information for the thesis or dissertation you are citing.

Conclusion on How to Cite a Thesis or Dissertation in APA

Accurate dissertation citations are essential for maintaining academic integrity, supporting arguments, and giving credit to sources. By understanding the importance of accurate citations, choosing the appropriate citation style, familiarizing yourself with the guidelines, learning how to cite different types of sources, using in-text citations effectively, creating a comprehensive bibliography, avoiding common mistakes, using citation management tools, ensuring consistency and coherence, seeking help when needed, you can master the art of citing sources in your dissertation. Prioritizing citation accuracy will enhance the credibility of your research and contribute to the overall advancement of knowledge in your field.

FAQs on Dissertation Citations

What is a dissertation?

What is a dissertation? This is a research paper or project submitted as a part of an academic degree program, typically for a doctorate, also referred to as a doctoral dissertation or thesis. It is an original work that contributes to the existing knowledge in a specific field of study.

What does the term “citation” mean in the context of a dissertation?

In the context of a dissertation, a citation refers to acknowledging a source used in the research and including relevant information about that source, such as the author’s name, the title of the work, the publication date, etc. Citations enable readers to locate and verify the sources that have influenced the dissertation.

How should I cite a dissertation or thesis?

When citing a dissertation or thesis, following the specific citation style guide recommended by your institution or professor is essential. The most commonly used citation styles for dissertations are APA (American Psychological Association) and MLA (Modern Language Association).

What is the APA citation style?

APA citation style (American Psychological Association) is widely used for social sciences, including dissertations and theses. It provides guidelines for formatting citations, references, and other elements of scholarly writing. The current edition of the APA style is the 7th edition.

How do I format the reference list for a dissertation in APA style?

To format the reference list for a dissertation in APA style, follow the guidelines in the APA Publication Manual. Include the author’s name, the title of the dissertation, the year of publication, the name of the institution, and any other required information specified by the APA guidelines.

Can I cite an unpublished thesis or dissertation?

You can cite an unpublished thesis or dissertation if it has contributed valuable information to your research. Include the author’s name, the title of the thesis or dissertation, the year it was completed, the name of the institution, and any additional required information based on the citation style guide you are following.

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