Is a thesis the same as a dissertation? Perhaps this is among the top questions often asked by students as we guide them through our dissertation and thesis writing services.
Let’s clear it up with a practical, global perspective that also accounts for regional differences.
Are a Thesis and a Dissertation the Same?
Short answer: It depends on where you study.
- United States and Canada:
Here, a thesis usually refers to a research project at the master’s level (MA/MSc). It’s narrower in scope and often aims to demonstrate mastery of a specific topic and research methods.
On the other hand, a dissertation refers to a capstone research project at the doctoral level (PhD/EdD), representing original, publishable research that contributes new knowledge to the field.
- United Kingdom, Europe, and many Commonwealth countries:
Here, a Thesis refers to the doctoral research document (PhD thesis) while the term Dissertation is often used for undergraduate or master’s projects.
Bottom line: Both are rigorous, formal research documents, but the term used—thesis vs. dissertation—varies by region and academic level.
Does a PhD Do a Dissertation or a Thesis?
In the US and Canada, PhD candidates complete a dissertation while in the UK,EU, and Commonwealth countries, PhD candidates submit a thesis.
Either way, PhD-level work involves a substantial, original research project, a formal document, and an oral defense.
How Long Is a Dissertation for a PhD?
Length varies by discipline, method, and institution. Check out our veteran dissertation guide and dissertation writing services.
Remember: Quality and originality outweigh word count. Universities also impose strict limits—always check your handbook.
What Truly Distinguishes Them (Beyond the Label)
- Scope and purpose:
- Master’s thesis/dissertation: Demonstrates mastery of literature and methods; tends to be narrower and more tightly scoped.
- Doctoral dissertation/thesis: Makes an original contribution to knowledge; demands novel research questions, robust methodology, and implications for the field.
- Structure:
- Both typically include introduction, literature review, methodology, results/findings, discussion, and conclusion. Doctoral work usually adds deeper theoretical framing, more advanced methods, and more extensive discussion and limitations.
- Evaluation:
- Master’s thesis/dissertation: Assessed on competence, methodological rigor, and understanding.
- PhD thesis/dissertation: Assessed on originality, significance, and contribution; often requires oral defense and sometimes publications.
- Timeline:
- Master’s thesis/dissertation: 3–12 months of focused research, depending on the program.
- PhD thesis/dissertation: 3–6 years (varies widely by country and field).
How go2writers Can Help
If you’d like, share your program, region, and field, and we’ll map the exact terminology, structure, and timeline—and outline a clear plan to get you from topic to submission with confidence.