You’re not alone if you’re confused about the difference between a dissertation and a thesis. Although they’re similar types of academic writing, their meanings can vary in American and British English. The distinction between a dissertation and a thesis might change depending on where you are in the world!
What is a Dissertation vs. a Thesis?
In American English, a dissertation is a research paper required for a doctorate degree, while a thesis is a research paper required for a master’s degree. Dissertations and theses (the plural of thesis) are sometimes mixed up because they’re both long research papers submitted for higher education, usually as part of a master’s or PhD program. A thesis or dissertation is often needed to earn an academic degree, and both are seen as a requirement for graduation.
Informally, people sometimes use the terms dissertation and thesis interchangeably, which can be confusing. However, in the formal academic world, they have different meanings, although some universities may have their own specific definitions. Let’s explore what dissertation and thesis actually mean.
What is a Dissertation?
In American English, a dissertation is a long research report required for a doctorate degree. When we say “highly involved,” we mean it; dissertations are 300 pages or longer, resembling a book-length research work.
The main thing about a dissertation is that it involves doing original research: To get a doctorate, you have to present new findings and data in your chosen field. This adds to what we already know and helps science move forward.
In scientific fields, dissertations are based on data gathered by the author. In subjects like literature or philosophy, dissertations are about new ideas, interpretations, analyses, or perspectives, rather than new facts.
Dissertations may also include a dissertation defense, which is an oral presentation in front of a panel of experts. During the defense, experts ask questions to make sure the findings are valid, and the student has to explain their methods and reasoning. Then the panel decides if the student will graduate and get their degree.
What is a Thesis?
A thesis paper is a big research document written to get a master’s degree. These papers, sometimes called a “senior thesis” for undergraduates, are done at the end of a program to summarize what they’ve studied, like dissertations.
Unlike a dissertation, a thesis doesn’t always have new research or ideas, but many master’s theses do. Usually, a thesis is used to see how well a student can research, understand, or analyze a topic, rather than adding new knowledge. But no matter what, writing a thesis paper takes a lot of work and is more challenging than a regular academic paper.
Dissertation vs. thesis in American and British English
We’ve previously discussed the differences between British and American English, and the definitions of dissertation and thesis are another example.
In short, the meanings are reversed. In British English, dissertation refers to bachelor’s and master’s programs, while thesis refers to doctoral degrees. It’s important to note that academic institutions in the United States and the United Kingdom, as well as in other English-speaking countries, differ significantly, so the content of bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD degrees varies accordingly.
| Dissertation | Thesis | |
| American English | for doctorates | for bachelor’s and master’s |
| British English | for bachelor’s and master’s | for doctorates |
Do You Need to Write a Thesis or Dissertation?
Keep in mind that the words “dissertation” and “thesis” are often used interchangeably, so the technical differences only matter in formal situations—like when you’re submitting one or the other. If you’re not sure, you can ask your adviser. Different schools or organizations might have their own definitions for these terms.
Dissertation vs. Thesis FAQ
- What is a dissertation versus a thesis?
Dissertations and theses (the plural of thesis) are sometimes mixed up because both are long research papers written for higher education. In American English, a dissertation is written to get a doctorate, while a thesis is done to earn a master’s degree. In many informal situations, people use the terms dissertation and thesis interchangeably.
- How do American and British English define dissertation versus thesis?
In British English, the words “dissertation” and “thesis” have different meanings: a thesis is written to get a doctorate, while a dissertation is written to earn a master’s or bachelor’s degree. It’s important to know that academic institutions in the United States, the United Kingdom, and other English-speaking countries have different rules, so the requirements for bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD degrees can vary.
- When to use a thesis or dissertation?
It’s important to remember that the words “dissertation” and “thesis” are often used interchangeably, so the technical differences only matter in formal situations—like when you’re submitting one or the other. If you’re unsure, you can ask your advisor; different schools or institutions might have their own definitions for these terms.
