Thesis Vs Dissertation - 8 Basic Differences

By Author: Eva Mason
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Dissertation and thesis are considered to be same in many universities. Generalized definition of both, thesis and dissertation is same i.e. any formal discourse in speech or writing. Should this make us conclude that thesis vs dissertation is same? Although, dictionary holds the same definition for both the terms but it does not mean that there is no difference between thesis and dissertation.

There are several differences between thesis and dissertation that one should know in order to clarify the concept of thesis vs dissertation. A thesis is basically the requirement for Master's degree while dissertation is the basic requirement to acquire the degree of doctorate. Let us review the 8 basic differences between thesis and dissertation in order to clarify our concept on thesis vs dissertation:

Thesis vs Dissertation

1. You have to utilize already collected information in order to prepare a thesis whereas dissertation is based on the research conducted all by yourself.

2. Dissertation is lengthier, ...
... thus, takes more time to be completed while thesis is short; therefore, it does not consume too much time to be completed.

3. In thesis, you have to include a hypothesis based on your research work. In contrast to thesis, you should have a decent knowledge of the new discoveries in order to infer your conclusion effectively in dissertation.

4. Thesis helps a student to get scholarships while the case is indifferent in case of dissertation writing.

5. In thesis, you have to focus on your primary argument in order to prove your standpoint to the readers. In contrast to thesis, dissertation focuses on your background work.

6. In Master's thesis, you have to utilize the research work in order to prove your point; in case of PhD dissertation, you have to add novel findings to existing literature.

7. Thesis is written as an academic research paper while dissertation is more like an academic book.

8. Data collected in thesis is based upon the hypothetical analysis of contents whereas your dissertation is comprised of theory and argumentation based on original research.

Conclusion:

There were some of the most basic differences between thesis and dissertation. In some countries, thesis is done to obtain the doctorate degree and dissertation to acquire a master's degree; therefore, the difference between thesis and dissertation reverses in case of those countries. Although, thesis vs dissertation is a debatable topic but many scholars would agree with the point that: Thesis and Dissertation are the same, in general.