One of the most important works for almost every student is a thesis, since the quality of its writing and the success of its defence determine whether a scientific degree is awarded. However, not every young scientist understands the difference between a candidate's and a doctoral thesis. In this article, we will look at the key differences between these works.
What is a thesis?
A thesis is a qualifying work written by a researcher to obtain an academic degree. In this work, the scientist puts forward new hypotheses or theories that are confirmed in the research. There are two types of theses:
- A master's thesis is a qualifying work completed by a postgraduate student to obtain a candidate of science degree. This type of work is devoted to the study of a more profound scientific problem and contains theoretical and experimental approaches to the study of the problem.
- A doctoral thesis is a qualifying work performed by a research fellow (candidate of sciences) to obtain a doctorate degree. This work is devoted to a fundamental scientific problem and contains significant research results.
What is the purpose of a thesis?
Writing a thesis is necessary for the following reasons:
- to confirm the scientific qualifications of the researcher
- to contribute to the development of general scientific thought
- to advance the researcher's career
- to gain recognition from the academic community
- to make a practical contribution to science
- to solve complex scientific problems in a specific field
What are the differences between a master's thesis and a doctoral thesis?
Below we will look at how these types of scientific works differ:
| Master's thesis | Doctoral thesis | |
| Academic degree | obtaining a PhD of science degree | obtaining a doctor of science degree |
| Length | social sciences and humanities – 150-220 pages natural sciences and technical sciences – 110-170 pages |
social sciences and humanities – 360-400 pages natural sciences and technical sciences – 260-320 pages |
| Research objective | research aimed at improving the efficiency of the selected field and studying a more narrow topic or an existing problem | more extensive research requiring in-depth analysis of the problem and the formation of a new scientific concept or direction |
| Sources | from 150 sources | from 250 sources |
| Publication requirements | at least 3 scientific articles, including publications in professional journals and in Scopus or Web of Science journals | at least 20 scientific articles, including publications in Scopus or Web of Science |
| Terms of defence | the defence date is set within two months of the submission of the necessary documents | the defence date is set within four months of the submission of the necessary documents |
Depending on the university and field of science, the requirements for formatting a thesis may vary slightly. Before you start preparing your work, carefully read all the established requirements and necessary publications for defending your thesis. This will help you avoid wasting time on reworking your work and increase your chances of obtaining the desired academic degree.
Need help preparing your thesis? Contact Scientific Papers. Our specialists have extensive experience in writing various types of scientific papers. We will prepare the material within the time frame you need and in compliance with the relevant requirements. Leave a request on the website and our manager will contact you shortly. Together towards scientific achievements!
