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How to Cite a Dissertation or Thesis in APA: Citation Style Guide

This is a step-by-step guide to help you through the entire process of  how to cite a thesis or dissertation from start to finish. 

Introduction to citing a thesis or dissertation in APA format

Accurate dissertation citations are of utmost importance in academic writing. Citations serve multiple purposes, including supporting arguments, crediting sources, and ensuring academic integrity. By citing sources properly, you strengthen your arguments and contribute to the credibility and reliability of your research. In this article, we will explore the significance of accurate dissertation citations and provide tips on how to master the art of citing sources effectively.

Understanding the importance of accurate dissertation or thesis citations

Accurate dissertation citations are crucial in maintaining academic integrity and avoiding plagiarism. When you cite your sources, you acknowledge the work and ideas of others who have contributed to your research. This gives credit where it is due and demonstrates your commitment to ethical scholarship. By properly citing your sources, you show that you have conducted thorough research and are building upon existing knowledge in your field. Furthermore, accurate dissertation or thesis citations enhance the credibility and reliability of your research. When readers see that you have provided a comprehensive list of references, they can easily verify the information you have presented and evaluate the validity of your arguments. Citations also allow readers to delve deeper into the topic by exploring the sources you have used. By providing accurate citations, you demonstrate that your work is based on sound evidence and contributes to your dissertation’s overall trustworthiness.

Choosing the appropriate citation style for your thesis and dissertation

Several citation styles are commonly used in academic writing, such as APA (American Psychological Association), MLA (Modern Language Association), Chicago/Turabian, and Harvard. Each style has its own set of rules and guidelines for formatting citations, so choosing the appropriate style for your dissertation is essential. When selecting a thesis and dissertation citation style, consider factors such as the requirements of your institution or department, the length of your dissertation , the conventions in your field of study, and personal preference. Some disciplines may have specific citation styles commonly used within their community. It is also important to consider the type of sources you will be citing, as different citation styles may have specific rules for different sources.

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Familiarizing yourself with the guidelines of your chosen citation style

Once you have chosen a citation style for your dissertation, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with its specific rules and guidelines. Each citation style has its manual or guidebook that provides detailed instructions on formatting citations for different sources. To find the guidelines for your chosen citation style, refer to the official manual or guidebook published by the organization or association that developed the style. These manuals are often available in print or online and provide comprehensive instructions on formatting citations, creating bibliographies, and handling specific citation scenarios. When navigating the guidelines, pay close attention to punctuation, capitalization, and formatting. These small details can make a big difference in the accuracy and consistency of your citations. Bookmarking or saving the guidelines for easy reference throughout your writing process is also helpful.

A guide on how to cite different types of sources in your dissertation

In your dissertation, you will likely cite various sources, including books, journal articles, websites, and more. Each source type has its unique citation format, so it is important to learn how to cite each type correctly. When citing books, include the author’s name, title, publication year, publisher, and place of publication. For journal articles, include the author’s name, title, title, volume number, issue number (if applicable), page numbers, and publication year. Websites require additional information, such as the URL and access date. It is important to follow the specific guidelines of your chosen citation style when formatting citations for different sources. These guidelines will provide examples and templates for each source type, ensuring you cite them accurately and consistently.

Using in-text citations effectively to support your arguments

In-text citations are an essential component of accurate dissertation citations. In-text citations acknowledge the sources of specific information or ideas within your text. They give credit to the original authors and provide evidence to support your arguments. To use in-text citations effectively, it is vital to integrate them smoothly into your writing. One common method is to include the author’s last name and the year of publication in parentheses after a direct quote or paraphrase. For example, (Smith, 2019). If you mention the author’s name in your sentence, you can simply include the year of publication in parentheses, like this: According to Smith (2019). It is important to be consistent with your in-text citations and follow the guidelines of your chosen citation style. This will ensure that your citations are accurate and easy for readers to follow.

Creating a comprehensive bibliography for your dissertation

A well-organized and complete bibliography is essential for accurate dissertation citations. The bibliography lists all the sources you have cited in your dissertation, arranged alphabetically by the author’s last name. When formatting your bibliography, follow the guidelines of your chosen citation style. Include all the necessary information for each source, such as the author’s name, dissertation title, publication year, and publication details. Pay attention to punctuation, capitalization, and formatting to ensure consistency and accuracy. A comprehensive bibliography demonstrates your thorough research and allows readers to locate and verify the sources you have used easily. It is important to double-check your bibliography for accuracy and completeness before submitting your dissertation.

Avoiding common mistakes in dissertation citations

When citing sources in your dissertation, it is important to avoid common errors and mistakes that can undermine the accuracy and credibility of your citations. Some common mistakes to watch out for include: Incorrect formatting: Make sure you follow the specific guidelines of your chosen citation style for formatting citations and bibliographies. Pay attention to details such as punctuation, capitalization, and italicization. Missing information: Ensure you include all the necessary information for each source, such as the author’s name, title, publication year, and publication details. Missing or incomplete information can make it difficult for readers to locate and verify your sources. Inconsistent citation style: Maintain consistency in your citation style throughout your dissertation. Use the same format and punctuation for all citations to ensure coherence and uniformity. To avoid these mistakes, it is important to double-check and proofread your citations for accuracy. Take the time to review each citation carefully and compare it against the guidelines of your chosen citation style. It can also be helpful to ask a peer or professor to review your citations for errors or inconsistencies.

Using citation management tools to streamline the process

Citing sources can be a time-consuming task, especially when dealing with a large number of sources. Fortunately, citation management tools are available that can help streamline the process and ensure accuracy. Citation management tools like EndNote, Zotero, and Mendeley allow you to organize and format your citations more efficiently. These tools allow you to import references from databases, organize them into folders or collections, and generate citations and bibliographies in various citation styles. By using citation management tools, you can save time and effort in manually formatting citations and bibliographies. These tools also help ensure consistency and accuracy in your citations by automatically applying the rules of your chosen citation style.

Ensuring consistency and coherence in your citations throughout the dissertation

Consistency and coherence are essential when it comes to accurate dissertation citations. Maintaining a consistent citation style and formatting throughout your dissertation is important to ensure clarity and readability. To ensure consistency, follow the guidelines of your chosen citation style and apply them consistently to all citations. Use the same format, punctuation, and capitalization for all citations to create a cohesive and uniform look. It is also important to ensure coherence in your citations by integrating them smoothly into your writing. Avoid abrupt or awkward transitions between your ideas and the cited sources. Use signal phrases and transitional words to introduce and connect your citations to your arguments. By maintaining consistency and coherence in your citations, you can enhance your dissertation’s overall quality and professionalism.

Seeking help and guidance for mastering dissertation citations

Mastering dissertation citations can be challenging, especially for those new to academic writing. It is important to seek help and guidance to ensure accuracy and effectiveness in your citations. Professors, librarians, and writing centers are valuable resources that can provide assistance and guidance on citation styles and formatting. They can help answer any questions, provide examples and templates, and offer feedback on your citations. Numerous online resources and websites offer guidance on citation styles and formatting. Websites such as Purdue OWL (Online Writing Lab) provide comprehensive guides on various citation styles, including examples and explanations for formatting different sources. By seeking help and guidance, you can improve your understanding of dissertation citations and ensure that you cite sources accurately and effectively.

How do I cite a dissertation in MLA style?

In order to cite a thesis or dissertation in MLA Style, you will need the following information:

• Author’s name
• Title of the dissertation (in quotation marks)
• Date of the degree conferment
• Name of the university
• The words, PhD dissertation (or MA/MS thesis)

Here is an example of how to cite a dissertation:

• Jones, John A. “An Examination of the Influence of Cultural Diversity in Corporate America.” PhD dissertation, Harvard University, 2010.

For a published dissertation or thesis available in a database or on a website, you may include the name of the database or site, the URL, and the date of access:

• Smith, Sam. “The Impact of Social Media on Interpersonal Communication.” MA thesis, University of Chicago, 2018. ProQuest, https://www.proquest.com/dissertations-theses/the-impact-of-social-media-on-interpersonal-communication/docview/1022333333.html . Accessed 23 March 2021.

Remember to write the author’s last name first, followed by first name and middle initial if given. The title should be in quotations and title case, and the name of the university should be italicized. The word “Accessed” should be used when providing the date accessed for an online source.

Citing an unpublished thesis or dissertation

Citation of an unpublished thesis or dissertation can vary due to different citation styles. Here are examples in APA, MLA and Chicago style:

1. APA (American Psychological Association) Style:

Author’s Last name, F. (Year). Title of dissertation/thesis (Unpublished doctoral dissertation [OR] Unpublished master’s thesis). Academic Institution, City, State.

• Smith, J. (2010). Understanding global climate change: A study on the effects of greenhouse gases (Unpublished doctoral dissertation). Harvard University, Cambridge, MA.

2. MLA (Modern Language Association) Style:

Author’s Last name, First name. “Title of Dissertation/Thesis.” Year of Completion. Name of Institution, Degree, Location.

• Smith, John. “Understanding Global Climate Change: A Study on the Effects of Greenhouse Gases.” 2010. Harvard University, PhD dissertation, Cambridge.

3. Chicago Style:

Author’s Last name, First name. “Title of Dissertation/Thesis.” PhD diss. [OR] Master’s thesis, Name of Institution, Year of Completion.

• Smith, John. “Understanding Global Climate Change: A Study on the Effects of Greenhouse Gases.” PhD diss., Harvard University, 2010.

Remember that citation styles can vary between different academic institutions and fields, so it’s always wise to check the specific requirements for your particular situation. In all cases, be sure that your references are clear and complete. Always provide as much information as possible to enable your readers to locate the sources you’ve cited. 

Citing a published dissertation or thesis from a database

If you are citing a published dissertation or thesis from a database in APA style, this is what it should look like:

Author’s Last name, Initial(s). (Year). Title of dissertation or thesis (Publication No.) [Doctoral dissertation or Master’s thesis, Name of Institution]. Database Name.

• Smith, J. K. (2017). An examination of the effects of pre-lecture activities on self-regulated learning and academic performance (Publication No. 238472) [Doctoral dissertation, University of Minnesota]. ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global.

In MLA style, you should cite it like this:

Last Name, First Name. “Title of Dissertation/Thesis.” Year of pub. Dissertation or MS thesis, Name of University. Name of Database, URL.

• Smith, John K. “An Examination of the Effects of Pre-Lecture Activities on Self-Regulated Learning and Academic Performance.” 2017. MS Thesis, University of Minnesota. ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global, https://www.proquest.com/openview/ .

Remember to use the correct citation style required by your instructor or guidelines. It can vary depending on the field of study, so make sure to check which format you should use.

Citing a thesis or dissertation published online but not from a database

This citation will depend on the citation style you are using. Here’s how you can do in APA, MLA, and Chicago styles:

Author’s Last name, First Initial. Middle Initial. (Year Published). Title of thesis or dissertation. (Doctoral dissertation or Master’s thesis). Name of institution, Location. URL.

For Example:

• Smith, J. P. (2020). Study on environmental sustainability in manufacturing industries. (Doctoral dissertation). Harvard University, Cambridge, MA. https://www.example.com/thesis

Author’s Last name, First name. “Title of dissertation or thesis.” Name of institution, Year of Publication. Web. Day Month Year Accessed.

• Smith, John P. “Study on environmental sustainability in manufacturing industries.” Harvard University, 2020. Web. 25 April 2021.

Chicago Style:

Author’s Last name, First name. “Title of Dissertation/Thesis.” Ph.D. diss., or Master’s thesis. Name of institution, Year of Publication. URL

Smith, John P. “Study on environmental sustainability in manufacturing industries.” Ph.D. diss., Harvard University, 2020. https://www.example.com/thesis

Please replace the URL, author’s name, title, year, and institution name with the appropriate information for the thesis or dissertation you are citing.

Conclusion on How to Cite a Thesis or Dissertation in APA

Accurate dissertation citations are essential for maintaining academic integrity, supporting arguments, and giving credit to sources. By understanding the importance of accurate citations, choosing the appropriate citation style, familiarizing yourself with the guidelines, learning how to cite different types of sources, using in-text citations effectively, creating a comprehensive bibliography, avoiding common mistakes, using citation management tools, ensuring consistency and coherence, seeking help when needed, you can master the art of citing sources in your dissertation. Prioritizing citation accuracy will enhance the credibility of your research and contribute to the overall advancement of knowledge in your field.

FAQs on Dissertation Citations

What is a dissertation.

What is a dissertation? This is a research paper or project submitted as a part of an academic degree program, typically for a doctorate, also referred to as a doctoral dissertation or thesis. It is an original work that contributes to the existing knowledge in a specific field of study.

What does the term “citation” mean in the context of a dissertation?

In the context of a dissertation, a citation refers to acknowledging a source used in the research and including relevant information about that source, such as the author’s name, the title of the work, the publication date, etc. Citations enable readers to locate and verify the sources that have influenced the dissertation.

How should I cite a dissertation or thesis?

When citing a dissertation or thesis, following the specific citation style guide recommended by your institution or professor is essential. The most commonly used citation styles for dissertations are APA (American Psychological Association) and MLA (Modern Language Association).

What is the APA citation style?

APA citation style (American Psychological Association) is widely used for social sciences, including dissertations and theses. It provides guidelines for formatting citations, references, and other elements of scholarly writing. The current edition of the APA style is the 7th edition.

How do I format the reference list for a dissertation in APA style?

To format the reference list for a dissertation in APA style, follow the guidelines in the APA Publication Manual. Include the author’s name, the title of the dissertation, the year of publication, the name of the institution, and any other required information specified by the APA guidelines.

Can I cite an unpublished thesis or dissertation?

You can cite an unpublished thesis or dissertation if it has contributed valuable information to your research. Include the author’s name, the title of the thesis or dissertation, the year it was completed, the name of the institution, and any additional required information based on the citation style guide you are following.

How do I cite a published dissertation or thesis?

To cite a published dissertation or thesis, you must include the author’s name, the title of the dissertation, the publication year, the name of the institution, and any other relevant details required by the citation style guide you are using. Additionally, provide the publication number if available.

Can you cite a thesis or dissertation from a database or online repository?

Yes, if you accessed the thesis or dissertation through a database or online repository, you can cite it similar to how you would cite a book or periodical. The citation should include the author’s name, the thesis or dissertation title, the year it was published, the name of the database or repository, the date you accessed it, and the URL or DOI. Always follow the specific citation style guide (such as APA or MLA) prescribed by your professor or institution.  

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Home / Guides / Citation Guides / MLA Format / How to Cite a Thesis or Dissertation in MLA

How to Cite a Thesis or Dissertation in MLA

Citing a thesis or dissertation.

Thesis – A document submitted to earn a degree at a university.

Dissertation – A document submitted to earn an advanced degree, such as a doctorate, at a university.

The formatting for thesis and dissertation citations is largely the same. However, you should be sure to include the type of degree after the publication year as supplemental information. For instance, state if the source you are citing is an undergraduate thesis or a PhD dissertation.

MLA Thesis and Dissertation Citation Structure (print)

Last, First M.  Title of the Thesis/Dissertation. Year Published. Name of University, type of degree.

MLA Thesis and Dissertation Citation Structure (online)

Last, First M.  Title of the Thesis/Dissertation. Year Published. Name of University, type of degree.  Website Name , URL.

Wilson, Peggy Lynn. Pedagogical Practices in the Teaching of English Language in Secondary Public Schools in Parker County . 2011. University of Maryland, PhD dissertation.

In-text Citation Structure

(Author Last Name page #)

In-text Citation Example

(Wilson 14)

MLA Formatting Guide

MLA Formatting

• Annotated Bibliography
• Bibliography
• Block Quotes
• et al Usage
• In-text Citations
• Paraphrasing
• Page Numbers
• Sample Paper
• Works Cited
• MLA 8 Updates
• MLA 9 Updates
• View MLA Guide

Citation Examples

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What is a thesis?

What is a dissertation, getting started, staying on track.

A thesis is a long-term project that you work on over the course of a semester or a year. Theses have a very wide variety of styles and content, so we encourage you to look at prior examples and work closely with faculty to develop yours. 

Before you begin, make sure that you are familiar with the dissertation genre—what it is for and what it looks like.

Generally speaking, a dissertation’s purpose is to prove that you have the expertise necessary to fulfill your doctoral-degree requirements by showing depth of knowledge and independent thinking.

The form of a dissertation may vary by discipline. Be sure to follow the specific guidelines of your department.

• PhD This site directs candidates to the GSAS website about dissertations , with links to checklists,  planning, formatting, acknowledgments, submission, and publishing options. There is also a link to guidelines for the prospectus . Consult with your committee chair about specific requirements and standards for your dissertation.
• DDES This document covers planning, patent filing, submission guidelines, publishing options, formatting guidelines, sample pages, citation guidelines, and a list of common errors to avoid. There is also a link to guidelines for the prospectus .
• Scholarly Pursuits (GSAS) This searchable booklet from Harvard GSAS is a comprehensive guide to writing dissertations, dissertation-fellowship applications, academic journal articles, and academic job documents.

Finding an original topic can be a daunting and overwhelming task. These key concepts can help you focus and save time.

Finding a topic for your thesis or dissertation should start with a research question that excites or at least interests you. A rigorous, engaging, and original project will require continuous curiosity about your topic, about your own thoughts on the topic, and about what other scholars have said on your topic. Avoid getting boxed in by thinking you know what you want to say from the beginning; let your research and your writing evolve as you explore and fine-tune your focus through constant questioning and exploration.

Get a sense of the broader picture before you narrow your focus and attempt to frame an argument. Read, skim, and otherwise familiarize yourself with what other scholars have done in areas related to your proposed topic. Briefly explore topics tangentially related to yours to broaden your perspective and increase your chance of finding a unique angle to pursue.

Critical Reading

Critical reading is the opposite of passive reading. Instead of merely reading for information to absorb, critical reading also involves careful, sustained thinking about what you are reading. This process may include analyzing the author’s motives and assumptions, asking what might be left out of the discussion, considering what you agree with or disagree with in the author’s statements and why you agree or disagree, and exploring connections or contradictions between scholarly arguments. Here is a resource to help hone your critical-reading skills:

http://writing.umn.edu/sws/assets/pdf/quicktips/criticalread.pdf

Conversation

Your thesis or dissertation will incorporate some ideas from other scholars whose work you researched. By reading critically and following your curiosity, you will develop your own ideas and claims, and these contributions are the core of your project. You will also acknowledge the work of scholars who came before you, and you must accurately and fairly attribute this work and define your place within the larger discussion. Make sure that you know how to quote, summarize, paraphrase ,  integrate , and cite secondary sources to avoid plagiarism and to show the depth and breadth of your knowledge.

A thesis is a long-term, large project that involves both research and writing; it is easy to lose focus, motivation, and momentum. Here are suggestions for achieving the result you want in the time you have.

The dissertation is probably the largest project you have undertaken, and a lot of the work is self-directed. The project can feel daunting or even overwhelming unless you break it down into manageable pieces and create a timeline for completing each smaller task. Be realistic but also challenge yourself, and be forgiving of yourself if you miss a self-imposed deadline here and there.

Your program will also have specific deadlines for different requirements, including establishing a committee, submitting a prospectus, completing the dissertation, defending the dissertation, and submitting your work. Consult your department’s website for these dates and incorporate them into the timeline for your work.

Accountability

Sometimes self-imposed deadlines do not feel urgent unless there is accountability to someone beyond yourself. To increase your motivation to complete tasks on schedule, set dates with your committee chair to submit pre-determined pieces of a chapter. You can also arrange with a fellow doctoral student to check on each other’s progress. Research and writing can be lonely, so it is also nice to share that journey with someone and support each other through the process.

Common Pitfalls

The most common challenges for students writing a dissertation are writer’s block, information-overload, and the compulsion to keep researching forever.

There are many strategies for avoiding writer’s block, such as freewriting, outlining, taking a walk, starting in the middle, and creating an ideal work environment for your particular learning style. Pay attention to what helps you and try different things until you find what works.

Efficient researching techniques are essential to avoiding information-overload. Here are a couple of resources about strategies for finding sources and quickly obtaining essential information from them.

https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/subject_specific_writing/writing_in_literature/writing_in_literature_detailed_discussion/reading_criticism.html

https://students.dartmouth.edu/academic-skills/learning-resources/learning-strategies/reading-techniques

Finally, remember that there is always more to learn and your dissertation cannot incorporate everything. Follow your curiosity but also set limits on the scope of your work. It helps to create a folder entitled “future projects” for topics and sources that interest you but that do not fit neatly into the dissertation. Also remember that future scholars will build off of your work, so leave something for them to do.

Browsing through theses and dissertations of the past can help to get a sense of your options and gain inspiration but be careful to use current guidelines and refer to your committee instead of relying on these examples for form or formatting.

DASH Digital Access to Scholarship at Harvard.

HOLLIS Harvard Library’s catalog provides access to ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global .

MIT Architecture has a list of their graduates’ dissertations and theses.

Rhode Island School of Design has a list of their graduates’ dissertations and theses.

University of South Florida has a list of their graduates’ dissertations and theses.

Harvard GSD has a list of projects, including theses and professors’ research.

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Citations: Citations

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Introduction

In APA style, citations include at least these two elements:

• publication year

A third element is necessary when citing a specific part of a source, such as when quoting, and entails an indicator of the specific part. This element is often a page or paragraph number. A page number is used for a source with pages, such as a book or journal article.  A paragraph number is used for a source without pagination, such as a long webpage. The indicator can alternatively be the section of a document for which a page or paragraph number is not a suitable choice, a timestamp for videos or audiobooks, or a slide number in a PowerPoint presentation. Some examples include the following:

See APA 7, Section 8.13 for more information and examples.

Citations in your paper are necessary to provide credit to the proper sources; failure to cite properly could result in plagiarism.

Although it is important to cite any ideas retrieved from sources, such as paraphrased explanations, quotations, statistics, or figures. It is not necessary to cite common knowledge (i.e., you do not need to cite that the Earth is round). Credit a source in each sentence that references material from a source. For examples of how often to cite a source in a paragraph, see some examples on the Citing Sources Properly page.

APA style citations are all in-text citations, meaning the information about the source appears in the body of the paper rather than in endnotes or footnotes.

How to Cite

Here is an example of citations within a paragraph:

True and Noble (2009) found many students are highly confused about citation. They also indicated some students receive erroneous information about citations or some professors are too lenient with them, causing even more confusion. In fact, Jones (2011) found 99 out of 100 students agreed citing work could seem like a "complex, maddening process" (p. 64).

In this example, note five main elements:

Sources are cited narratively or parenthetically in each sentence in which they are used. The author and date citation can be left out, however, in contiguous following sentences that further explain the same source as long as the sentences clearly signal that the same source is being discussed. Parenthetical citations appear within the ending punctuation of a sentence. Publication years appear after the authors. Quotation page numbers appear after the quotation. Note that the page number is represented as p. 64, and a paragraph would be represented as para. 4. If a quotation spans multiple pages, use pp. The full word "and" is used for citations in the narrative, and the ampersand symbol (&) is used for parenthetical citations.

How Often to Cite

Citation issues can appear when writers use too few citations, use too many citations, or use too much information from a source in place of blending the source information with their own informed analysis and commentary on the information. Here are some factors to consider when citing sources:

1. Did I provide adequate commentary on the cited material?

Cited material should illustrate rather than substitute for your point. Make sure your paper is more than a collection of ideas from your sources; it should provide an original interpretation of that material. For help with creating this commentary while also avoiding personal opinion, see our Commentary vs. Opinion resource.

2. Did I begin and end my paragraphs in my own voice?

The opening sentence of each paragraph should be your topic sentence , and the final sentence in the paragraph should conclude your point and lead into the next. Without these elements of a paragraph, you leave your reader without a sense of the paragraph's main purpose. Additionally, the reader may not understand your reasons for including that material.

3. Have I used the cited material to support my specific thesis?

All material that you cite should contribute to your main argument (also called a thesis or purpose statement). When reading the literature, keep that argument in mind, noting ideas or research that speak to the issues in your particular draft. See our synthesis demonstration for help learning how to use the literature to support your thesis.

4. Have I relied too heavily on one source?

Most research papers should include a variety of sources from the last 3-5 years. You may find one particularly useful study, but try to balance your use and citations of that study with research from other authors. Otherwise, your paper becomes a book report on that one source and lacks richness of theoretical perspective.

5. Have I included too many direct quotations?

In academic writing, rely primarily on paraphrase when using evidence. Although direct quotations can be useful for illustrating a rhetorical choice of your author, in most other cases paraphrasing the material is more appropriate. Using your own words by paraphrasing will better demonstrate your understanding and will allow you to emphasize the ways in which the ideas contribute to your paper's main argument.

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Citation guides

All you need to know about citations

How to cite a dissertation in APA

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To cite a dissertation in a reference entry in APA style 6th edition include the following elements:

• Author(s) of the dissertation: Give the last name and initials (e. g. Watson, J. D.) of up to seven authors with the last name preceded by an ampersand (&). For eight or more authors include the first six names followed by an ellipsis (…) and add the last author's name.
• Year of publication: Give the year in brackets followed by a full stop.
• Title of the dissertation: Only the first letter of the first word and proper nouns are capitalized.
• URL: Give the full URL where the document can be retrieved from.

Here is the basic format for a reference list entry of a dissertation in APA style 6th edition:

Author(s) of the dissertation . ( Year of publication ). Title of the dissertation (Doctoral dissertation). Retrieved from URL

If the dissertation is available from a database, archive or any online platform use the following template:

• Author(s) of the dissertation: Give the last name and initials (e. g. Watson, J. D.) of up to 20 authors with the last name preceded by an ampersand (&). For 21 or more authors include the first 19 names followed by an ellipsis (…) and add the last author's name.
• Publication number: Give the identification number of the dissertation, if available.
• Name of the degree awarding institution: Give the name of the institution.
• Name of platform: Give the name of the database, archive or any platform that holds the dissertation.
• URL: If the dissertation was found on a database, omit this element.

Here is the basic format for a reference list entry of a dissertation in APA style 7th edition:

Author(s) of the dissertation . ( Year of publication ). Title of the dissertation ( Publication number ) [Doctoral dissertation, Name of the degree awarding institution ]. Name of platform . URL

If the dissertation has not been published or is available from a database use the following template:

• Location: Give the location of the institution. If outside the United States also include the country name.

Author(s) of the dissertation . ( Year of publication ). Title of the dissertation (Unpublished doctoral dissertation). Name of the degree awarding institution , Location .

If the dissertation is not published, use the following template:

Author(s) of the dissertation . ( Year of publication ). Title of the dissertation [Unpublished doctoral dissertation]. Name of the degree awarding institution .

APA reference list examples

Take a look at our reference list examples that demonstrate the APA style guidelines for a dissertation citation in action:

A dissertation found in an online platform

Guo, J . ( 2018 ). Trust-based service management of internet of things systems and its applications ( Doctoral dissertation ). Retrieved from https://vtechworks.lib.vt.edu/handle/10919/82854

Guo, J . ( 2018 ). Trust-based service management of internet of things systems and its applications [ Doctoral dissertation , Virginia Tech ]. ETDs: Virginia Tech Electronic Theses and Dissertations . https://vtechworks.lib.vt.edu/handle/10919/82854

An unpublished doctoral dissertation

Neel, B. L . ( 2017 ). Three flute chamber works by Alberto Ginastera: Intertwining elements of art and folk music ( Unpublished doctoral dissertation ). University of Nebraska-Lincoln , NE .

Neel, B. L . ( 2017 ). Three flute chamber works by Alberto Ginastera: Intertwining elements of art and folk music [ Unpublished doctoral dissertation ]. University of Nebraska-Lincoln .

This citation style guide is based on the official Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association ( 6 th edition).

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• APA Referencing: Theses
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• APA 6th Edition Citation Style

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Published Dissertation or Thesis References

This page contains reference examples for published dissertations or theses.

Kabir, J. M. (2016). Factors influencing customer satisfaction at a fast food hamburger chain: The relationship between customer satisfaction and customer loyalty (Publication No. 10169573) [Doctoral dissertation, Wilmington University]. ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global.

Miranda, C. (2019). Exploring the lived experiences of foster youth who obtained graduate level degrees: Self-efficacy, resilience, and the impact on identity development (Publication No. 27542827) [Doctoral dissertation, Pepperdine University]. PQDT Open. https://pqdtopen.proquest.com/doc/2309521814.html?FMT=AI

Zambrano-Vazquez, L. (2016). The interaction of state and trait worry on response monitoring in those with worry and obsessive-compulsive symptoms [Doctoral dissertation, University of Arizona]. UA Campus Repository. https://repository.arizona.edu/handle/10150/620615

• Parenthetical citations : (Kabir, 2016; Miranda, 2019; Zambrano-Vazquez, 2016)
• Narrative citations : Kabir (2016), Miranda (2019), and Zambrano-Vazquez (2016)
• A dissertation or thesis is considered published when it is available from a database such as ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global or PDQT Open, an institutional repository, or an archive.
• If the database assigns publication numbers to dissertations and theses, include the publication number in parentheses after the title of the dissertation or thesis without italics.
• Include the description “Doctoral dissertation” or “Master’s thesis” followed by a comma and the name of the institution that awarded the degree. Place this information in square brackets after the dissertation or thesis title and any publication number.
• In the source element of the reference, provide the name of the database, repository, or archive.
• The same format can be adapted for other published theses, including undergraduate theses, by changing the wording of the bracketed description as appropriate (e.g., “Undergraduate honors thesis”).
• Include a URL for the dissertation or thesis if the URL will resolve for readers (as shown in the Miranda and Zambrano-Vazquez examples).
• If the database or archive requires users to log in before they can view the dissertation or thesis, meaning the URL will not work for readers, end the reference with the database name (as in the Kabir example).

Published dissertation or thesis references are covered in the seventh edition APA Style manuals in the Publication Manual Section 10.6 and the Concise Guide Section 10.5

Making Arguments and Writing Theses

What is an argument?

An argument takes a stand on an issue that is  debatable . It seeks to  persuade  an audience of a point of view in much the same way that a lawyer argues a case in a court of law. It is  NOT  a description or a summary.

• This is an argument: “Although it may seem that internal discord and external barbarian invasions were separate problems for the Roman Empire in the fourth century, these developments were fundamentally interrelated and formed the single most important explanation for the long-term decline of Rome.”
• This is not an argument: “In this paper, I will elucidate the reasons for the collapse of the Roman Empire in the two tumultuous centuries leading up to the sack of its capital city in 410 by the notorious Visigoth king Alaric.”

What is a thesis?

A thesis statement states the  main argument  of your project and describes, briefly,  how you will prove your argument .  In other words, it also states how you will organize your body of evidence in support of the argument.

• This is an vague argument, and not yet a thesis: “The Roman Empire fell due to multiple interrelated reasons.”
• This is a thesis: “The barbarian invasions from the late third to the early fifth century were a direct result of policy changes by the Roman government responding to political struggles within the empire, culminating in the collapse of the Roman Empire at the hands of the Germanic tribes from the north.”

A thesis makes a specific statement to the reader about what you will be trying to argue. Your thesis can be more than one sentence, but should not be longer than a paragraph.  Do not state evidence or use examples in your thesis paragraph.  

A Thesis Helps You and Your Reader

Your  blueprint for writing:

• Helps you focus and clarify your ideas.
• Provides a “hook” on which you can “hang” your topic sentences.
• Can (and should) be revised as you further refine your evidence and arguments. New evidence often requires you to change your thesis.
• Gives your paper a unified structure and point.

Your  reader’s  blueprint for reading:

• Serves as a “map” to follow through your paper.
• Keeps the reader focused on your argument.
• Signals to the reader your main points.
• Engages the reader in your argument.

Tips for Writing a Good Thesis

• Find a Focus :  Choose a thesis that explores an aspect of your topic that is important to you, or that allows you to say something insightful about your topic. For example, if your project seeks to analyze women’s domestic labor during the late fifteenth century, you might decide to focus on the products they produced at home.
• Look for Patterns : After determining a general focus, go back and look more closely at your evidence. As you re-examine your evidence and identify patterns, you will develop your argument and some conclusions. For example, you might find that as men’s access to professional training increased, women made fewer textiles at home, though they generally retained their production of butter and ale.

Strategies for Developing a Thesis Statement

Here are four ways to begin to develop your thesis. These will not necessarily result in a finished product, but will give you a place to start.

Strategy 1:  Spend time ruminating over your topic. Make a list of the ideas you want to include in the essay, and then think about how to group them under several different headings. Often, you will see an organizational plan emerge from the sorting process.

Strategy 2:  Write a sentence that summarizes the main idea of the essay you plan to write.

Main Idea :  Women’s domestic labor during the later Middle Ages contributed to the growth of the early industrial economy in Europe.

Strategy 3:  Use a formula to develop a working thesis statement (which you will need to revise later). Here are a few examples:

• Although most readers of _________ have argued that _________, closer examination shows that _________.
• ________ used _________ and _________ to prove that _________.
• Historical event “X” is a result of the combination of _________, _________, and _________.

Strategy 4:  Since your project instructions asks you to develop a specific historical question, turn the question into an assertion and give reasons for your statement.

Research Question : How did women’s domestic labor change between 1348 and 1500? How were changes in their work important to late medieval economic culture in Germany?

Beginning thesis : Between 1348 and 1500 women’s domestic labor changed as women stopped producing home-made textiles, although they continued to produce butter and ale. With the cash women earned from the sale of butter and ale they purchased cloth imported from Flanders and Italy, which in turn, helped increase early industrial production in those areas.

These strategies all should help you develop two characteristics all thesis statements should have: they state an argument and they reveal how you will make that argument. Your thesis probably still needs revising but these strategies may provide a good start.

Refine, Refine, Refine

As you work on your project, your ideas will change and so will your thesis. Here are examples of weak and strong thesis statements.

• Unspecific thesis : “Francis of Assisi was an important figure in the development of Christian attitudes about nature.”

  This thesis lacks an argument. Why was Francis an important leader?

• Specific thesis : “Francis of Assisi offered a new interpretation of Christian asceticism that responded to the frustrations felt my many urban dwellers with the commercial economy of the thirteenth century, while using simple religious language that attracted people who were uncomfortable with impenetrable scholastic theology of the period.”

This thesis has an argument: Francis’s interpretation of Christianity became popular  because  it satisfied two different frustrations felt by many people in thirteenth-century Europe.

• Unspecific thesis : “At the end of the fifteenth century French women faced difficulty when they attempted to enter universities.”

No historian could argue with this general statement and uninteresting thesis.

• Specific thesis : “At the end of the fifteenth century French women experienced misogynist attacks from scholastics when they petitioned to enter universities  primarily   because  theologians were concerned with protecting the monopoly that males had on priesthood, which was required for entry into academia.”

This thesis statement asserts that theologians attacked women who wanted a formal education  because  they feared that  if  women were allowed into universities they would be granted clerical status, which might threaten the male monopoly on priesthood.

Making an Argument

Your thesis is defenseless without you to prove that its argument holds up under scrutiny. Your reader expects you to provide all of the evidence to prove your thesis. There are two categories of evidence that you can use:

• Primary sources: treatises, letters, diaries, newspaper accounts, government documents, an organization’s meeting minutes and pamphlets.
• Secondary sources: articles and books that explain and interpret historical events.

How can you use this evidence?

• Make sure the examples you select from your available evidence address your thesis.
• Use evidence that your reader will deem credible. This means sorting through your sources, and identifying the clearest and fairest. It also means paying careful attention to the credibility of the source. This is especially important when dealing with web-based sources. Be sure to understand the biases and shortcomings of each piece of evidence. When in doubt consult with your professor or teaching assistant.
• Avoid broad generalizations that your reader may question by appealing to specific evidence.
• Use evidence to address an opposing point of view. How do your sources give examples that refute another historian’s interpretation?

Dissertation Preparation

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• Collecting Data
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Developing an Argument

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An important aspect running through your dissertation will be your argument for:

• why this specific topic is worth researching;
• why this is a good way to research it;
• why this method of analysis is appropriate; and
• why your interpretations and conclusions are reasonable.

You will refer to the work of others as you make your argument. This may involve critiquing the work of established leaders in the field. While it is important to be respectful in the way that you discuss others’ ideas and research, you are expected to engage directly, and even openly disagree with existing writing.

In Taylor’s (1989) book on writing in the arts and social sciences, he suggests that the following different approaches offer a range of academically legitimate ways to engage with published work.

• Agree with, accede to, defend, or confirm a particular point of view.
• Propose a new point of view.
• Concede that an existing point of view has certain merits but that it needs to be qualified in certain important respects.
• Reformulate an existing point of view or statement of it, such that the new version makes a better explanation.
• Dismiss a point of view or another person’s work on account of its inadequacy, irrelevance, incoherence, or by recourse to other appropriate criteria.
• Reject, rebut or refute another’s argument on various reasoned grounds.
• Reconcile two positions that may seem at variance by appealing to some ‘higher’ or ‘deeper’ principal.
• Develop an existing point of view, perhaps by utilizing it on larger or more complex datasets, or applying a theory to a new context

(Adapted from Taylor 1989:67)

It is important that you are assertive about what you are arguing, but it is unlikely that, in a dissertation project, you will be able to be definitive in closing an established academic debate. You should be open about where the gaps are in your research, and cautious about overstating what you have found.  Aim to be modest but realistic in relating your own research to the broader context.

Improving Structure and Content

Once you have the dissertation in draft form it becomes easier to see where you can improve it. To make it easier to read you can use clear signposting at the beginning of chapters, and write links between sections to show how they relate to each other. Another technique to improve academic writing style is to ensure that each individual paragraph justifies its inclusion. More ideas will be presented in the Study Guide The art of editing.

You may choose to review your draft from the standpoint of a dissertation examiner, which might involve preparing a list of questions that you want to see answered, then reading through your dissertation scribbling comments, suggestions, criticisms, and ideas in the margin. If you have a marking guide then apply it to your dissertation and see if there are aspects that you can improve.

While you do this, be aware of whether you need to increase the number of words, or decrease it to reach your target. As you read you can then cross through material that appears unnecessary, and mark points that could be expanded. This will then form the basis for your next, improved, draft.

When to Stop

Just as it can be difficult to begin writing, it can also be difficult to know when to stop. You may begin to feel that your dissertation will never be good enough and that you need to revise it again and again. It may be helpful to divert your attention for a while to the finishing off activities you need to attend to:

• writing the abstract and the introduction;
• checking the reference list;
• finalizing the appendices; and
• checking your contents page.

Coming back afresh to look critically at the main text may then enable you to complete it to your satisfaction. Remember the dissertation needs to demonstrate your ability to undertake and report research rather than to answer every question on a topic.

It is important to allow yourself enough time for the final checking and proofreading of the finished document.

• Devote time to planning the structure of the dissertation.
• Plan a structure that will enable you to present your argument effectively.
• Fill in the detail, concentrating on getting everything recorded rather than sticking to the word limit at this stage.
• Regard writing as part of the research process, not an after-thought.
• Expect to edit and re-edit your material several times as it moves towards its final form.
• Leave time to check and proofread thoroughly.

Barrass R. (1979) Scientists must write. A guide to better writing for scientists, engineers and students. London:Chapman and Hall.

Taylor G. (1989) The Student’s Writing Guide for the Arts and Social Sciences. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

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Comprehensiveness

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• Are there any points you feel may have been left out, on purpose or accidentally, that affect its comprehensiveness?
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Title: fairness, accuracy, and unreliable data.

Abstract: This thesis investigates three areas targeted at improving the reliability of machine learning; fairness in machine learning, strategic classification, and algorithmic robustness. Each of these domains has special properties or structure that can complicate learning. A theme throughout this thesis is thinking about ways in which a `plain' empirical risk minimization algorithm will be misleading or ineffective because of a mis-match between classical learning theory assumptions and specific properties of some data distribution in the wild. Theoretical understanding in eachof these domains can help guide best practices and allow for the design of effective, reliable, and robust systems.

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How to Write a Thesis or Dissertation Introduction

Published on September 7, 2022 by Tegan George and Shona McCombes. Revised on November 21, 2023.

The introduction is the first section of your thesis or dissertation , appearing right after the table of contents . Your introduction draws your reader in, setting the stage for your research with a clear focus, purpose, and direction on a relevant topic .

Your introduction should include:

• Your topic, in context: what does your reader need to know to understand your thesis dissertation?
• Your focus and scope: what specific aspect of the topic will you address?
• The relevance of your research: how does your work fit into existing studies on your topic?
• Your questions and objectives: what does your research aim to find out, and how?
• An overview of your structure: what does each section contribute to the overall aim?

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How to start your introduction, topic and context, focus and scope, relevance and importance, questions and objectives, overview of the structure, thesis introduction example, introduction checklist, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about introductions.

Although your introduction kicks off your dissertation, it doesn’t have to be the first thing you write — in fact, it’s often one of the very last parts to be completed (just before your abstract ).

It’s a good idea to write a rough draft of your introduction as you begin your research, to help guide you. If you wrote a research proposal , consider using this as a template, as it contains many of the same elements. However, be sure to revise your introduction throughout the writing process, making sure it matches the content of your ensuing sections.

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Begin by introducing your dissertation topic and giving any necessary background information. It’s important to contextualize your research and generate interest. Aim to show why your topic is timely or important. You may want to mention a relevant news item, academic debate, or practical problem.

After a brief introduction to your general area of interest, narrow your focus and define the scope of your research.

You can narrow this down in many ways, such as by:

• Geographical area
• Time period
• Demographics or communities
• Themes or aspects of the topic

It’s essential to share your motivation for doing this research, as well as how it relates to existing work on your topic. Further, you should also mention what new insights you expect it will contribute.

Start by giving a brief overview of the current state of research. You should definitely cite the most relevant literature, but remember that you will conduct a more in-depth survey of relevant sources in the literature review section, so there’s no need to go too in-depth in the introduction.

Depending on your field, the importance of your research might focus on its practical application (e.g., in policy or management) or on advancing scholarly understanding of the topic (e.g., by developing theories or adding new empirical data). In many cases, it will do both.

Ultimately, your introduction should explain how your thesis or dissertation:

• Helps solve a practical or theoretical problem
• Addresses a gap in the literature
• Builds on existing research
• Proposes a new understanding of your topic

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Perhaps the most important part of your introduction is your questions and objectives, as it sets up the expectations for the rest of your thesis or dissertation. How you formulate your research questions and research objectives will depend on your discipline, topic, and focus, but you should always clearly state the central aim of your research.

If your research aims to test hypotheses , you can formulate them here. Your introduction is also a good place for a conceptual framework that suggests relationships between variables .

• Conduct surveys to collect data on students’ levels of knowledge, understanding, and positive/negative perceptions of government policy.
• Determine whether attitudes to climate policy are associated with variables such as age, gender, region, and social class.
• Conduct interviews to gain qualitative insights into students’ perspectives and actions in relation to climate policy.

To help guide your reader, end your introduction with an outline  of the structure of the thesis or dissertation to follow. Share a brief summary of each chapter, clearly showing how each contributes to your central aims. However, be careful to keep this overview concise: 1-2 sentences should be enough.

I. Introduction

Human language consists of a set of vowels and consonants which are combined to form words. During the speech production process, thoughts are converted into spoken utterances to convey a message. The appropriate words and their meanings are selected in the mental lexicon (Dell & Burger, 1997). This pre-verbal message is then grammatically coded, during which a syntactic representation of the utterance is built.

Speech, language, and voice disorders affect the vocal cords, nerves, muscles, and brain structures, which result in a distorted language reception or speech production (Sataloff & Hawkshaw, 2014). The symptoms vary from adding superfluous words and taking pauses to hoarseness of the voice, depending on the type of disorder (Dodd, 2005). However, distortions of the speech may also occur as a result of a disease that seems unrelated to speech, such as multiple sclerosis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

This study aims to determine which acoustic parameters are suitable for the automatic detection of exacerbations in patients suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by investigating which aspects of speech differ between COPD patients and healthy speakers and which aspects differ between COPD patients in exacerbation and stable COPD patients.

Checklist: Introduction

I have introduced my research topic in an engaging way.

I have provided necessary context to help the reader understand my topic.

I have clearly specified the focus of my research.

I have shown the relevance and importance of the dissertation topic .

I have clearly stated the problem or question that my research addresses.

I have outlined the specific objectives of the research .

I have provided an overview of the dissertation’s structure .

You've written a strong introduction for your thesis or dissertation. Use the other checklists to continue improving your dissertation.

If you want to know more about AI for academic writing, AI tools, or research bias, make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

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The introduction of a research paper includes several key elements:

• A hook to catch the reader’s interest
• Relevant background on the topic
• Details of your research problem

and your problem statement

• A thesis statement or research question
• Sometimes an overview of the paper

Don’t feel that you have to write the introduction first. The introduction is often one of the last parts of the research paper you’ll write, along with the conclusion.

This is because it can be easier to introduce your paper once you’ve already written the body ; you may not have the clearest idea of your arguments until you’ve written them, and things can change during the writing process .

Research objectives describe what you intend your research project to accomplish.

They summarize the approach and purpose of the project and help to focus your research.

Your objectives should appear in the introduction of your research paper , at the end of your problem statement .

Scope of research is determined at the beginning of your research process , prior to the data collection stage. Sometimes called “scope of study,” your scope delineates what will and will not be covered in your project. It helps you focus your work and your time, ensuring that you’ll be able to achieve your goals and outcomes.

Defining a scope can be very useful in any research project, from a research proposal to a thesis or dissertation . A scope is needed for all types of research: quantitative , qualitative , and mixed methods .

To define your scope of research, consider the following:

• Budget constraints or any specifics of grant funding
• Your proposed timeline and duration
• Specifics about your population of study, your proposed sample size , and the research methodology you’ll pursue
• Any inclusion and exclusion criteria
• Any anticipated control , extraneous , or confounding variables that could bias your research if not accounted for properly.

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