Very often students struggle to find the answer to the question “how many words is a dissertation?”

In this article, we will explore the average dissertation word count, the proper format for a dissertation, and the factors that influence the length of a dissertation.

Masters dissertation word count

The length of a dissertation can vary depending on the academic level and the subject of study. However, there is an average range that students are advised to follow.

How long is a thesis?

The average word count for a Master’s dissertation is between 15,000 and 40,000 words. This answers the question “how many words is a thesis”.

PhD dissertation length

The word count for dissertation is typically between 80,000 and 100,000 words. This range is determined by the requirements of the university or academic institution. Some universities may have a lower word count requirement, while others may require a higher word count. It is important for students to check the specific requirements for their institution before beginning their dissertation.

Length of dissertation: factors that influence the word count

There are several factors that can influence the length of a dissertation. These include:

• The complexity of the topic being researched.
• The level of detail required for the research methodology.
• The number of results and findings being presented.
• The length of the introduction and conclusion sections.
• The format and style requirements of the institution or university.

How to format your dissertation properly

Formatting a dissertation correctly is crucial for ensuring that it is accepted by the university or academic institution. The following are some of the key elements of a properly formatted dissertation:

1. Title page

This should include the title of the dissertation, the author’s name, and the date of submission.

2. Abstract

This is a brief summary of the dissertation and should be no more than 250 words.

3. Acknowledgements

This section allows the author to acknowledge the support and contributions of others during the research process.

4. Table of contents

This should list all the chapters or sections of the dissertation, along with their page numbers.

5. List of figures and tables

This should list all the figures and tables that are included in the dissertation, along with their page numbers.

6. Introduction

This is where the author provides background information on the topic and explains the research question.

7. Literature review

This is where the author reviews and summarizes relevant literature on the topic of the dissertation.

8. Methodology

This is where the author explains the research methodology used in the study.

9. Results

This is where the author presents the results of the research.

10. Discussion

This is where the author interprets and discusses the results of the research.

11. Conclusion

This is where the author summarizes the main findings of the research and provides recommendations for future research.

12. References

This is a list of all the sources cited in the dissertation, formatted according to the specified style guide.

Conclusion

The average dissertation word count can vary. However, regardless of the word count, a well-formatted dissertation is crucial for acceptance by your university or academic institution. Ensure that when writing your dissertation, you follow the proper format and include all of the required elements. With careful attention to detail and a commitment to quality research and writing, you can produce a dissertation that meets the requirements and showcases your knowledge and expertise.

In this blog, we will highlight the distinctions and similarities between a dissertation vs thesis.

What is a thesis?

A thesis is a typed document that presents the research and analysis of a master’s degree candidate. The aim of this type of academic paper is to prove that you have a solid understanding of your field of study and can apply the knowledge you have been taught in a practical way. This sort of paper must present your ability to identify a problem and offer a viable solution.

What is a dissertation?

This is a comprehensive document that showcases the research and analysis of a PhD candidate. The aim of a doctoral paper is similar to that of a thesis, which is to prove your expertise and mastery of your field. 

But unlike a thesis, a doctoral paper has larger depth and extension, and it must show your ability to make valuable contributions to original research and knowledge to your field. Apart from depth, there are other vital distinctions between a thesis vs dissertation. 

What is the difference between a thesis and a dissertation?

A thesis is usually done by a master’s degree candidate, while a doctoral paper is written by a PhD candidate. This is the most fundamental distinction between the two. 

So rather than saying a masters dissertaion or a doctoral thesis, it should be referred to as a master’s thesis or a doctoral doctoral paper, respectively.

Other distinctions include:

• Span

A thesis is usually less longer than a doctoral paper and is mostly around 50–100 pages in length. A doctoral paper, however, has more length, with a span ranging from 200 to 500 pages.

• Aim

A thesis is meant to showcase the candidate’s mastery of their field of study, while a doctoral paper is meant to add valuable contributions and fresh knowledge to the field.

• Format

A thesis is always structured like a research paper, with an introduction, literature review, methodology, results, and conclusion. A doctoral paper, however, is more structured, often including an abstract, table of contents, list of figures, and appendices.

• Level

A thesis is completed by a Master’s degree candidate, while a doctoral paper is completed by a PhD candidate.

• Independence

A thesis is usually done with the guidance of a advisor, while a doctoral paper is completed entirely by the candidate, with the advisor acting as a consultant.

What makes a thesis and a doctoral paper similar?

Despite the distinctions between a thesis and a doctoral paper, there are also a few similarities between both. Understanding the similarities between both is crucial for ensuring a smooth and successful research and writing process. 

Some of the key similarities include:

1. Extensive research and writing

You will need to invest a significant amount of time and effort into researching and writing your work, regardless of the type of paper you are writing.

2. Organization

To be successful, your paper must be well-organized, with an understandable and concise structure, and it must be well-written, with proper use of citations.

3. Purpose

No matter what you are writing, your work must demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of your field.

4. Assessment

Before your work can be considered complete, it must be approved by a committee of experts in your field, who will assess your work and provide feedback and suggestions for improvement.

The importance of proper formatting and presentation

Proper formatting and presentation is crucial for the success of your PhD thesis or dissertation. The format of your work must be consistent and professional, and it must meet the requirements and standards of your field. This may include following specific guidelines for page numbering, font size and style, margins, and headings, among other things.

It is equally important to proofread and edit for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors, as well as for overall clarity and coherence.

Conclusion

Whether you are pursuing a Master’s degree or a PhD, it is important to understand what is expected of you and to work closely with your advisor to ensure that your work meets the desired expectations.