What is a thesis?

The main requirement for completion of a research higher degree is the submission of a thesis.

• A thesis is a written piece of work which reports on the substantive research undertaken during the course of a student's candidature.
• A thesis usually includes a statement of a research question, a literature review, a description of the methodology, and a report of the results.
• Discipline conventions vary with regard to the length and format of a research thesis. Students are advised to consult with their supervisor regarding the appropriate format of their thesis.
• For further information on discipline conventions, see Faculty information. Students should also read copies of previous student's theses which are housed in the Library collection.
• Both the Library and the Learning Resource Centre also run short generic workshops on Thesis Writing. Check with these units for workshop details.
• A student may not submit as part of their thesis any work or material which has previously been submitted for a degree at another tertiary institution.

Thesis writing resources