Introduction
Most university Master’s degrees require students to complete a significant academic project, known as a ‘dissertation’ (or ‘thesis’ – although ‘dissertation’ is the more typical term in the UK for the large project towards the end of the Master’s degree). This article sets out what a dissertation is, and highlights some of the features that are different to essays at Master’s level. Additionally, I’ll be providing some advice and tips designed to help keep you on track, and learn how to perform to the best of your ability. OK, let’s go!
Questions also addressed in this article
- How long is a Master’s dissertation?
- What is a Master’s dissertation proposal?
- What is expected from a Master’s dissertation?
- What is a Dissertation Supervisor for?
- How do I get good marks for my Master’s dissertation?
Master’s Dissertations vs Master’s Essays Compared
So, what exactly is a dissertation, and how does it differ from essays at Master’s level? Essentially, a dissertation is a research project undertaken by students to showcase their independent research skills and contribute new insights to their chosen field of study. While Master’s students do undertake some research towards essays, Master’s dissertations take this research effort up a notch, as I’ll explain shortly. Dissertations are quite different to Master’s level essays (although essays provide a great foundation for the dissertation project!). So what are the major differences?
#1: The size of the project
A dissertation at Master’s level is typically around 15,000 words – so it’s a much larger project than an essay or report. This larger word limit, however, is justified by what the dissertation project involves. Unlike regular coursework or exams, a dissertation offers students the opportunity to explore a topic and research question of their own choosing – and in detail.
#2: The dissertation ‘research proposal’
Most Master’s programmes require students to submit a ‘research proposal’ before embarking upon the dissertation. A research proposal outlines the intended research area for the dissertation. The proposal itself requires some preparation/work, but it’s work that pays off – by the time you start your dissertation, you’ll be able to hit the ground running.
#3: Academic Expectations
Students are expected to undertake more extensive and independent research. Research skills are now being thoroughly tested, which means moving beyond simply understanding and applying prescribed theory from modules. Expectations are higher at the dissertation stage. We return to expectations below to unpack this a little more.
#4: Dissertation Supervisor
Master’s dissertation students are typically assigned a ‘Supervisor’ (or ‘Advisor’). The supervisor is an academic whose task is to guide the student on this major project. In practice, many will have expertise that relates to the student’s proposed research area (as detailed in the research proposal). It is crucial that you do use your supervisor, but note: supervisors are there to provide some oversight only. The dissertation is largely a self-directed job where students are responsible for all aspects of the project.
The dissertation constitutes a bigger challenge than essays. It takes months of research, preparation and commitment. But, it’s also a very rewarding part of a Master’s journey. You get the opportunity to work on an area you’re interested in (hopefully!) and you’ll become very knowledgeable about that area. Being able to speak meaningfully about an in-depth research project you’ve completed can be very useful when applying for jobs, because you’ll be able to demonstrate that you have a range of transferable skills, including advanced research skills – which graduate employers value. Best of all, so many Master’s students end up feeling a sense of great achievement about the dissertation. And, rightly so – it’s a major accomplishment!
Expectations of Master’s Dissertation Students
So, what kinds of skills and abilities are Master’s dissertation students expected to demonstrate? To some degree this depends on your Master’s degree programme. All Master’s level students should get their hands on their Faculty or Department’s Assessment Criteria specific to dissertations to have a deeper appreciation of the range of skills and competencies you need to demonstrate for the dissertation stage. Generally, however, the dissertation milestone requires students to exhibit the following –
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Definition of a research area with a clear and focused question, or questions.
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Thorough knowledge of relevant literature.
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Evidence of independent critical thought and originality.
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Appropriate data gathering and analysis.
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A persuasive and well-argued piece of work which engages with relevant scholarship.
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A coherent research project which is well-structured and organised.
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A piece of work which is largely error-free, authored with high integrity (e.g., avoids plagiarism/unfair practice) and adheres to formatting and citation guidelines.
When you start your Master’s degree, check out the programme handbook, and attend any study skills’ sessions available about the dissertation stage so that you’re aware of what’s expected of you. This includes broader expectations. From the specific structure a dissertation should take, disciplinary norms, formatting and citation style, submission info including the deadline to details about ethical approval, to the question of whether you’ll be assessed on the written work alone (or whether there’ll also be an oral examination, a ‘viva’) – all of these issues really matter. Find out about these early on so that you’re fully prepared for what lies ahead, and are able to perform to the best of your abilities.
Entitlements of Master’s Dissertation Students
When checking out your Master’s programme handbook, and attending any study skills’ sessions about the dissertation stage, don’t forget to find out about your entitlements to support and help.
Importantly, this includes knowing how much supervision time you’re entitled to (e.g., how many meetings, when should those meetings happen, and how much of your dissertation draft work is your supervisor permitted to review etc.?). In my experience, one of the main reasons why some students underperform at the dissertation stage is because they don’t engage their supervisor much (or at all). By working effectively with your supervisor, your chances of passing the dissertation element of your Master’s increases – a lot.
Keep your supervisor up-to-date with your progress and where permitted, give them the opportunity to review some of your work. Don’t be shy to tell your supervisor about any problems you’re having that might interfere with your dissertation progress. Where circumstances warrant it, your supervisor can advise you about applying for an extension to secure more time to complete the dissertation.
Conclusion
A dissertation is a significant research project. It’s different to an essay in terms of the size of the project, and the approach that needs to be taken in respect of it. The dissertation requires hard work and a sustained effort – but it’s a job that has a big reward at the end! By undertaking a dissertation you’ll demonstrate your mastery of a research area and higher level research skills – and many of you will also valuably add to the body of knowledge in your field. Embrace the process, use your supervisor, seek guidance when needed, and let your dissertation showcase your intellectual capabilities and potential. I wish you all the best with your dissertation project!