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.

Last reviewed: 28 May, 2007