When you think about university degrees, the word "dissertation" often brings a sense of both anticipation and dread. As a major part of the academic journey, the task of dissertation writing looms large for many students.
But what are dissertations? Who writes a dissertation? Are there different types of dissertations? And is there a difference in thesis vs dissertation?
In this article, we’ll explore all of these questions including how they fit into the South African university system.
What Are Dissertations?
‘What are dissertations’ is a common question and a good place to begin.
A dissertation is more than just a long essay, rather it is an important piece of original research that aims to contribute to the academic field. To write one, you will need to write extensive research, synthesise finding and present conclusions in a way that offers new insights or advances in a particular area.
The key difference when answering what are dissertations is the research element. To begin this process, you will be required to ask an important question relating to your field of study, identify a gap in the existing knowledge and then craft a study that answers the question or solves the problem related to the question.
In essence, it is a scholarly contribution, something that requires critical thinking, thorough investigation, and well-organised writing.
At this point, you may be questioning the terms thesis vs dissertation especially as many people use them interchangeably. Actually, there is a distinct difference when it comes to thesis vs dissertation.
In general, a these is written at the Master’s level and is typically a smaller-scale study that builds on existing research, while a dissertation is typically a more in-depth, original piece of work and is a requirement for doctoral studies.
What are Dissertations for Undergraduates?
In South Africa, the question of who writes a dissertation at undergraduate level is understandable as it is not immediately clear. Students enrolled in Honours programmes, which is also known as the fourth year after Bachelor’s degree, often complete a dissertation.
A dissertation at the Honours level isn’t usually as lengthy, or as in-depth as one you would write for a Master’s or PhD, but it is still a substantial piece of research. It could give you the chance to demonstrate your ability to design and implement a small-scale study and is something that could prepare you well for the next steps of your academic career.
The process is not just about getting a grade; but also, about refining your research skills, learning how to manage your time effectively, and developing a deep understanding of the research process.
In South Africa, most universities require Honours students to submit a dissertation in fields like the sciences, humanities, and social sciences. Whether you’re studying for a BSc Honours or a BA Honours, a dissertation is your opportunity to apply what you’ve learned and showcase your research capabilities.
Different Types of Dissertations: What About Master’s Degrees?
For the Master’s student in South Africa, the dissertation becomes more significant although it is not always a part of the academic journey. However, not all Master’s degrees require a dissertation. The difference lies in whether the programme is coursework-based or research-based.
In a coursework-based Master’s degree, there may be a minor research component, but the focus is on completing modules and assessments in your chosen field of study. Typically, these programmes won’t require you to write a full dissertation. Instead, you may be expected to complete smaller research projects or a research proposal. While the research component is still an essential part of these degrees, it doesn’t involve the extensive work required for a dissertation.
On the other hand, full research-based Master’s degrees (such as an MSc or MA by thesis) demand a dissertation. In this case, your final-year project will be a substantial research study that may span months or even years.
The length of a Master’s dissertation in South Africa typically ranges from 15 000 to 30 000 words, and it is expected to be a comprehensive piece of research that contributes to the field you are studying. This process which is more rigorous is not just about collecting data and writing up results, it’s about developing a research question, reviewing the existing literature, designing your methodology, gathering and analysing data, and interpreting your findings in a way that adds to the academic conversation.
The key distinction between coursework-based Master’s degrees and research-based Master’s degrees is clear: a research Masters requires an in-depth dissertation as the culmination of your studies.
So, if you’re wondering whether you’ll need to write a dissertation for your Master’s programme, the answer depends on the type of degree you’re pursuing!
Doctoral Dissertations: PhD Research
The highest level of academic research requires the most demanding dissertation writing. A PhD dissertation (also called a thesis in some countries) is a significant academic achievement that is expected to make an original contribution to your chosen field. It goes far beyond the work done at the undergraduate or Master’s level, as it involves years of in-depth study, research, and analysis.
This work is typically longer than what is required for undergraduate Master’s degrees. Word counts range from 40 0000 to 80 000 words (sometimes more), and they involved complex research projects that can take years to complete. For a PhD, it is not just about answering a question, but also about providing insights, pushing the boundaries of knowledge and contributing meaningfully to the academic world.
The research process for a PhD is much more independent than at earlier stages of study. For instance, PhD candidates are expected to demonstrate a high degree of expertise in their field and should be able to defend their dissertation findings with confidence. Doctoral dissertations are scrutinised closely by academic examiners who look for originality, quality of research, and the potential impact of the study.
In South Africa, a PhD dissertation can be undertaken in any number of fields, from the humanities to the sciences, but what makes doctoral dissertations unique is their potential to change the direction of future research in the field. The important thing to remember is that as a PhD candidate, you are essentially expected to push the academic conversation forward through your work.
University Requirements and Different Types of Dissertation
In South Africa, requirements for dissertation writing can vary from one university to another. For example, institutions like the University of Cape Town (UCT), University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), Stellenbosch University, and the University of Pretoria (UP) all have their own dissertation guidelines and expectations.
While the basic structure is fairly consistent across institutions, each university may have slightly different requirements in terms of formatting, submission processes, and support offered to students. Some universities may have specific word count requirements, submission deadlines, and review processes, while others may offer more flexible timelines depending on the department and field of study.
In addition, certain programmes might require you to follow a more specific research methodology, or they may have specific guidelines for how you should structure and edit your dissertation. For instance, this could include the types of literature and sources you are expected to reference. Make sure that you check with your university’s department or postgraduate office to ensure that you understand the particular requirements for dissertation writing at your institution.
Contribute to the Academic World
Regardless of whether it is a thesis vs dissertation, in South Africa, the journey begins with the completion of an undergraduate Honours degree and extends through Master’s and Doctoral study. Each level requires different amounts of research, originality, and depth, but they all have one thing in common: they are opportunities for you to make a meaningful contribution to the academic world.
So, when you ask yourself: who writes a dissertation or what are dissertations the answer is anyone pursuing an Honours degree, a full research Master’s, or a PhD in South Africa! By understanding the different types of dissertation and the specific expectations for each level, you are well placed to navigate the process with clarity and confidence.
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