History Dissertation Structure

History Dissertation Structure
1. Title Page
• Dissertation title
• Your name
• Institution, department, and course
• Supervisor’s name
• Submission date
2. Abstract
• A concise summary of the dissertation (150-300 words) covering the research question,
methodology, key findings, and conclusion.
3. Acknowledgments
• Optional section to thank those who supported your research (e.g., supervisors, family,
or funding sources).
4. Table of Contents
• List all sections and subsections with page numbers.
5. List of Figures and Tables (if applicable)
• Include titles and page numbers of any visual aids.
6. Introduction
• Background to the topic and its historical significance.
• Research aims and objectives.
• Research question(s).
• Scope and limitations of the study.
• Overview of the structure of the dissertation.
7. Literature Review
• Review and analyze existing scholarship related to your topic.
• Identify gaps in the literature that your research addresses.
• Theoretical frameworks and historiographical debates relevant to your study.
8. Methodology
• Explain your research approach (e.g., archival research, qualitative analysis, comparative
methods).
• Justify the sources and methods chosen.
• Discuss any challenges or limitations.
9. Chapters (Main Body)
Divide your dissertation into logical chapters based on your research questions or chronological/
thematic approach:
Chapter 1: Context and Background
• Set the historical context for your topic.
• Key events, figures, or developments.
Chapter 2: Analysis
• Provide detailed analysis of primary and secondary sources.
• Address your research questions.
• Support arguments with evidence.
Chapter 3: Case Studies or Comparative Analysis (if applicable)
• In-depth focus on specific examples or comparisons.
(Adjust the number and focus of chapters based on your topic.)
10. Conclusion
• Summarize key findings and arguments.
• Highlight the significance of your research.
• Discuss implications for further study.
11. Bibliography
• List all primary and secondary sources cited in your dissertation, formatted according to
your institution’s preferred citation style (e.g., Chicago, MLA).
12. Appendices (if applicable)
• Include supplementary material like documents, maps, charts, or interview transcripts.