MERE9452 Masters Project B
MERE9453 Masters Project C
Engineering Science (Petroleum Engineering)
Engineering Science (Petroleum Engineering Open Learning)
Research Thesis is a compulsory pathway in the Mining Engineering (Hons) degree and an optional pathway for high WAM students doing Petroluem Engineering. This thesis allows a student to work closely with a particular supervisor, learn particular skills – like programming or laboratory work, conduct research and write up their findings. To take this stream, you will need to first enrol in MERE4951 Research Thesis A.
MERE4951 Research Thesis A
In this course you will be required to find a supervisor and topic to work on. You can find a list of our research strengths here:
https://www.unsw.edu.au/engineering/minerals-and-energy-resources-engineering/research
You can also find an individual academic and ask them about topics that they work on. Academics from our school are available here:
https://www.unsw.edu.au/engineering/minerals-and-energy-resources-engineering/about-us/our-people
Once you enrol, make sure you have access to the Microsoft Team (the link is on the Moodle page), which is filled with information and has active forums for asking questions:
MERE4952 & MERE9453 Research Thesis B & C
These two units (4UoC each) can be taken in the same term or separately. Thesis B involves submitting a video/audio reflection of the work so far and an interim report. Thesis C involves writing your thesis and recording and submitting a scientific presentation of your results.
All Postgrad thesis students can find a list of thesis topics will be posted on the Thesis A Moodle site . The student key to access the site will be sent out by the thesis co-ordinator to all students who will be taking thesis the following term. You should review the list and discuss the topics with the relevant supervisor to get an idea of what it entails. Students must include in their email to the supervisor, their CV and a cover letter explaining their topic interests and relevant background.
Once both the supervisor and student have agreed on the topic, a Thesis Nomination Form should be completed. This is submitted to the Thesis Coordinator and uploaded to the SOLA9451 Moodle site prior to the student commencing work on their topic. All students must have chosen a supervisor by 9am Monday week 1 of term.
You can develop your own thesis topic, if you can find a supervisor from within the School. This will require you to attach a one page description of the thesis topic and signed by the supervisor to the Thesis Nomination Form.
The School also encourages students who wish to do an industry-led thesis topic. In this case the mentor from industry would be the student’s co-supervisor, however an academic staff member from the School must act as the supervisor of the thesis.
For an industry-led thesis, you must obtain approval from an academic of the School to supervise the topic. You should submit a signed letter from the industry representative and academic supervisor with a brief outline of the project with a Thesis Nomination Form.
All information needed for the deliverables of thesis A can be found in the course outline which is available on the SOLA9451 Moodle site.
Each supervisor has a prescribed limit for how many students they are accepting. A table will be posted noting how many students each supervisor will take and how many students they have so far. Once a supervisor reaches their limit please look for someone else. You are not guaranteed a project with a supervisor unless you have a signed form.
Depending on the thesis course you take, your topic may be provided to you or you will need to develop one.
If you need to develop one, most schools have a website that lists available topics and the staff willing to supervise those topics. You may wish to select a topic based on areas of engineering interest, extracurricular interests (such as the ChallENG Projects ), or preference for working with a particular academic in your field. You can even come up with your own in consultation with your thesis supervisor. Take a look!
The process is different for each school, so review the information above.
If you still have questions, contact your school’s Postgraduate Thesis Coordinator.
Projects based on current employment are highly encouraged. They must meet the requirements of advanced independent study and you must arrange a UNSW academic as (co-)supervisor. Finally, work-based projects must be approved by the Thesis Coordinator prior to enrolment.
Most schools have a Moodle, intranet, or web page with detailed information about their thesis program. That should be your next port of call – check your school’s section above for access instructions.
Schools often run information sessions during the year. These will be advertised via email, on social media and/or during class. Keep an eye out for these events.
The Undergraduate Thesis page has further answers to frequently asked thesis questions.
If you have questions related to enrolment or progression, contact the Nucleus.
Finally, each school has a Thesis Coordinator who can answer specific questions related to your personal circumstances.
Oct 3, 2023 | Research FAQs
What are the nuances that set these two scholarly endeavours apart.
In the realm of academia, the terms “master’s thesis” and “doctoral dissertation” often appear as enigmatic milestones on the path to higher education. These two scholarly endeavours represent significant achievements in a student’s academic journey, but they differ in numerous ways, ranging from their scope and depth to their purposes and requirements.
In this short guide, we delve into the nuances that set these academic projects apart. We’ll begin by defining what a master’s thesis and a doctoral dissertation are and then explore key distinctions between them, shedding light on the unique challenges and opportunities each presents.
Definition of a master’s thesis.
A master’s thesis , also known as a postgraduate thesis , is a research project typically undertaken by students pursuing a master’s degree. It serves as a capstone to their academic program, allowing them to demonstrate their proficiency in their chosen field. A master’s thesis is usually narrower in scope and shorter in length compared to a doctoral dissertation, with the primary goal of advancing knowledge in a specific area.
A doctoral dissertation , on the other hand, is the culmination of a doctoral program and represents the highest level of academic achievement. It is a substantial piece of original research that contributes significantly to the existing body of knowledge in a particular field. Doctoral dissertations are comprehensive, in-depth studies that often take several years to complete.
Length and scope.
The length and scope of a master’s thesis and a doctoral dissertation are among the most conspicuous differences. A master’s thesis is typically a concise document, ranging from 50 to 100 pages in length. This relatively limited size serves a purpose – it compels students to focus on a well-defined research question or problem within a specific subfield of study. The brevity required in a master’s thesis necessitates precision, forcing students to make every word count. This succinctness encourages clarity of thought and communication, fostering the development of concise yet insightful academic writing.
In stark contrast, a doctoral dissertation is a formidable undertaking, often exceeding 200 pages. It represents a comprehensive exploration of a broader research area, allowing for the incorporation of multiple interconnected topics. The sheer volume of content in a dissertation offers doctoral candidates the opportunity to delve deeply into their chosen field, to explore nuances, and to draw connections across a wide array of subtopics. This expansive scope allows for a more comprehensive examination of the subject matter, encouraging students to contribute meaningfully to the academic discourse in their area of expertise.
Master’s Thesis : Contributes to the existing body of knowledge within a limited scope, aiming to provide a deeper understanding of a specific aspect of a field.
Doctoral Dissertation : Makes a substantial and original contribution to the field, often introducing new theories, methodologies, or perspectives that advance the entire discipline.
Another pivotal distinction between master’s theses and doctoral dissertations lies in the level of research contribution they are expected to make. A master’s thesis, while a valuable academic exercise, primarily contributes to the existing body of knowledge within a limited scope. Its aim is to provide a deeper understanding of a specific aspect of a field. In essence, a master’s thesis represents a scholarly stepping stone, demonstrating the student’s ability to engage with existing literature and research critically.
Conversely, a doctoral dissertation transcends the boundaries of a master’s thesis in terms of research contribution. It is not merely an exercise in summarising or synthesising existing knowledge but a profound endeavour that seeks to make a substantial and original contribution to the field. Doctoral candidates are encouraged to chart new territories, often introducing new theories, methodologies, or perspectives that can advance the entire discipline. In essence, a dissertation is expected to push the boundaries of human knowledge, setting the stage for further exploration and discovery.
Master’s Thesis : Provides a thorough analysis of existing literature and research, with a focus on synthesis and interpretation rather than ground-breaking discoveries.
Doctoral Dissertation : Requires an extensive review of existing literature but also involves creating new knowledge through empirical research, experimentation, or the development of novel theories.
The depth of analysis represents another facet where master’s theses and doctoral dissertations diverge significantly. A master’s thesis provides a thorough analysis of existing literature and research within its defined scope. While it does involve critical evaluation, its primary focus is on synthesis and interpretation rather than new discoveries. Master’s students are encouraged to engage with existing scholarship, to identify gaps or areas of improvement, and to contribute their insights to the conversation. The aim is to enhance understanding rather than to revolutionise the field.
In contrast, a doctoral dissertation sets the bar much higher in terms of depth of analysis. While it does require an extensive review of existing literature, it goes beyond by demanding the creation of new knowledge. Doctoral candidates must engage in empirical research, experimentation, or the development of novel theories that challenge the status quo. This requirement for originality and innovation underscores the notion that a dissertation should not only examine the field but also actively contribute to its evolution. It is in this crucible of originality that ground-breaking discoveries are often made.
Master’s Thesis : Typically completed within one to two years of full-time study or longer for part-time students.
Doctoral Dissertation : A multi-year endeavour, often taking three to seven years or more to complete, including coursework, research, and dissertation writing.
The temporal dimension of a master’s thesis versus a doctoral dissertation is yet another factor that distinguishes these academic exercises. Completing a master’s thesis is typically a more time-efficient process, with full-time students often achieving this milestone within one to two years. However, for part-time students who balance their studies with other commitments, the timeline may extend further.
In stark contrast, a doctoral dissertation is a long-haul commitment. Doctoral programs are renowned for their multi-year duration, often spanning three to seven years or even longer. This extended timeframe encompasses not only the research and writing of the dissertation but also the completion of coursework, comprehensive exams, and other program requirements. The prolonged duration of a doctoral program reflects the depth of scholarship and research expected of doctoral candidates.
Master’s Thesis : Usually supervised by one faculty advisor, with limited committee involvement.
Doctoral Dissertation : Involves a dissertation committee consisting of multiple faculty members who guide, evaluate, and provide expertise throughout the research process.
The role of the academic committee in the development of a master’s thesis and a doctoral dissertation is another critical distinction. A master’s thesis is usually supervised by one faculty advisor, with limited committee involvement. While this advisor provides guidance and oversight, the process is relatively streamlined.
In contrast, a doctoral dissertation involves a dissertation committee comprising multiple faculty members. This committee plays a pivotal role in guiding, evaluating, and providing expertise throughout the research process. The committee members bring diverse perspectives and expertise, enriching the quality of the research and ensuring that it meets the rigorous standards expected at the doctoral level. The collaborative nature of the committee process fosters a dynamic exchange of ideas and insights.
Master’s Thesis : Emphasises a student’s ability to apply existing knowledge and research methods effectively.
Doctoral Dissertation : Requires a high degree of originality and innovation, pushing the boundaries of the field and advancing scholarship.
Originality and innovation are key criteria that set doctoral dissertations apart from master’s theses. A master’s thesis emphasises a student’s ability to apply existing knowledge and research methods effectively. While creativity and critical thinking are valued, the primary goal is to demonstrate mastery of existing scholarship.
In contrast, a doctoral dissertation demands a high degree of originality and innovation. Doctoral candidates are encouraged to question established paradigms, challenge assumptions, and explore uncharted territory. They are expected to contribute fresh perspectives, methodologies, or even entirely new theories that can reshape the field. A dissertation’s success often hinges on the extent to which it pushes the boundaries of the discipline and advances scholarship in a meaningful way.
Master’s Thesis : Some programs may require a defence, but it is less common and less rigorous compared to doctoral defences.
Doctoral Dissertation : Almost universally requires an oral defence, where the student must defend their research before their committee and sometimes the wider academic community.
The process of defending one’s research represents a significant difference between master’s theses and doctoral dissertations. While some master’s programs may require a defence, it is generally less common and less rigorous compared to doctoral defences. A master’s thesis defence typically involves a presentation to a small committee of faculty members who assess the student’s understanding of the research and its implications.
In contrast, an oral defence is almost universally required for doctoral dissertations. This defence involves a comprehensive presentation of the research findings and their significance, followed by a rigorous questioning session by the dissertation committee. In some cases, it may extend to include the wider academic community, making the defence a public event. The oral defence is a critical milestone that demonstrates a doctoral candidate’s mastery of the subject matter and their ability to defend their research rigorously.
Master’s Thesis : May lead to publication in academic journals or conference proceedings but is less likely to result in a major contribution to the field.
Doctoral Dissertation : Often forms the basis for multiple publications and can significantly impact the field, establishing the student as an expert in their area of study.
The publication potential of master’s theses and doctoral dissertations also varies significantly. A master’s thesis may lead to publication in academic journals or conference proceedings, but its impact is typically limited to a specific niche within the field. While valuable, it is less likely to result in a major contribution that reshapes the entire discipline.
In contrast, a doctoral dissertation often serves as the foundation for multiple publications. The depth and originality of the research make it a fertile ground for generating scholarly articles, book chapters, and conference presentations. These publications can significantly impact the field, establishing the doctoral candidate as an expert in their area of study. A successful dissertation can open doors to a career in academia or research, as it showcases the candidate’s ability to drive innovation and contribute substantially to their chosen field.
In conclusion, the journey from a master’s thesis to a doctoral dissertation represents a remarkable transformation in a student’s academic journey. While both milestones are valuable, they differ significantly in terms of length, scope, research contribution, depth of analysis, time commitment, committee involvement, originality, oral defence, and publication potential. These distinctions underscore the unique challenges and opportunities that each presents, shaping the academic and professional trajectories of students as they advance in their chosen fields.
In the world of academia, the journey from a master’s thesis to a doctoral dissertation represents a profound transformation. While both serve as essential milestones in a student’s academic path, they differ significantly in scope, depth, and purpose.
Master’s theses provide students with an opportunity to hone their research skills and delve deeply into a specific aspect of their field. They contribute to the existing body of knowledge but typically do not generate ground-breaking discoveries.
In contrast, doctoral dissertations are epic intellectual endeavours. They demand years of commitment, pushing the boundaries of knowledge and making a substantial and original contribution to the field. Doctoral candidates emerge as experts in their chosen area, with the potential to shape the future of their discipline.
As you embark on your academic journey, whether pursuing a master’s or a doctoral degree, reflect on the unique challenges and opportunities that await you. Consider your aspirations, your commitment to research, and your long-term goals. Both master’s theses and doctoral dissertations are integral parts of the academic tapestry, each playing a vital role in advancing human understanding and knowledge.
Here are two websites that can assist with your master’s theses, doctoral dissertations, and academic research:
Way With Words – Website: https://waywithwords.net/services/transcription-services . This website offers professional transcription services, which can be invaluable for documenting and transcribing research interviews and other audio materials.
ProQuest – Website: https://www.proquest.com/ . ProQuest is a leading database of dissertations and theses. It provides access to a vast collection of academic research, serving as a valuable resource for literature reviews and research inspiration.
Stack Exchange network consists of 183 Q&A communities including Stack Overflow , the largest, most trusted online community for developers to learn, share their knowledge, and build their careers.
Q&A for work
Connect and share knowledge within a single location that is structured and easy to search.
All the three types of research revolve around an argument, a thesis. They of course differ in terms of student level, that is complexity.
But, what makes a bachelor's thesis different from master's and PhD theses in terms of procedures of researching given that all of them may follow the same process of research, questions or hypotheses, review of the literature, methodology, results and discussion?
The PhD thesis should be on a much higher level than the Honours/Masters thesis, offering a contribution to human knowledge that is of a sufficient level of "significance" to warrant publication in a respected journal.
Significance is highly subjective, and you also do not necessarily have to publish to be awarded the PhD (sometimes the peer-review delay means that they come out afterwards, or there may be some intellectual property issues that make it beneficial to refrain from publication). It is awarded based on your supervisors consent and a review of academics in your field. So the "significance" would probably be judged by them in terms of how much original work they see as a reasonable expectation at that stage of your development (first 3 years of serious/committed research). Unfortunately it also means that some people who probably do not deserve PhD's are awarded them anyway for fulfilling grunt work for their easy-going supervisors.
It is possible that some Honours/Masters thesis might even be more significant/higher quality than a PhD thesis. Unfortunately, this does not mean that the submission of the thesis will award the degree that they deserve. The university may have a policy to upgrade the student's enrolment if the supervisor senses that such progress is being made. However, it is impossible to upgrade to a PhD without completing Honours and I believe nearly every single university has a policy of a minimum period of enrolment before submission is allowed. A subsequent question that you may have is how to gain a PhD without enrolling in one, which is another level of achievement completely.
As for the difference between Honours/Bachelor and Masters it would depend on your university, but both have no requirement for publication quality research and are usually small tasks/ideas that are not worth the supervisors time to think about alone, or involve a lot of labor. In fact, in my school, many Honours thesis are of a higher level than the Masters, because the smart Honours students will either graduate into the work force or go straight into a PhD. The Masters students are usually those who cannot find a job and are not suited to research. However, I believe some other universities may require a mandatory Masters degree to start the PhD.
You may get a better idea by looking at some titles/abstracts of completed theses. The PhD level will be something like a new method/observation/application whereas the Masters/Honours will be an application specific set of measurements/simulations or even simply a literature review to gauge the needs of future work. The word limits are also typically different (although note that quality is NOT proportional to the number of words), with PhD at 100K, Masters at 50K and Honours at 30K at my university.
Go back to basic definitions... In history of university degrees (500 years ago)
A bachelors degree is about learning existing knowledge. Historically from the book(s) written by the univ staff.
A masters degree, after you have learnt what is already known and in books in your topic area, is about learning evolving knowledge - that is near recent and current literature in academic journals and conference presentations.
A doctorate degree is about creating new knowledge by research.
So it is now easy to understand a thesis/dissertation for each degree.
A bachelors degree should be a critique of existing knowledge, often looking for inconsistencies in view points from different sources and synthesising arguments or positions in a DISSERTATION )that is you disserting !
A masters thesis (thesis is Greek for 'I believe') can be either an assembly of new knowledge from new published research or simply a critique and integration. It might have propositions (not hypotheses) that the masters student offers as a conclusion from bringing together new knowledge from different sources.
A doctoral thesis is where the author undertakes research, usually collecting primary new data which is presented as both factual findings and conceptual findings and thus new knowledge in the form of a new model or theory. Also possible, is to challenge existing knowledge and show earlier published knowledge is invalid.
Well that's what they all should be. In practice there is some overlap and different universities and faculties have their own custom and practice. It all starts to break down about 40 years ago when a masters degree become post graduate in time rather than post graduate in level. Thus engineers with a bachelor degree might take an MBA to make them more employable and did more a less a bachelor degree in business in 18 months rather than 3 years as they were already a graduate.
But still thinking in the above categories can help students today focus on the overall agenda.
I have examined over 55 PhD theses. And several hundred masters theses and I base my approach to assessment on the above.
Prof Peter Woolliams, B.Sc(hons), B.A., PhD, Emeritus professor, Anglian Ruskin College Cambridge, U K
Roughly speaking, there are three levels of tasks:
For a Bachelor's thesis, you would only expect 1 and 2, that is the student should do something (e.g. solve a well-defined problem) with the knowledge they have aquired during their studies.
For Master's thesis, you would want to have a non-trivial amount of 3, that is the student should transfer the competences aquired during studies to new problems. This usually includes (more) extensive literature research.
A formal difference that (imho) derives from the above is volume; Bachelor's theses typically award less credits than Master's theses and should thus take up less time and fewer pages.
Find your perfect postgrad program search our database of 30,000 courses.
One thing that all postgraduate degrees have in common is that they allow you to continue your studies in a specialised subject. An undergraduate degree is usually required for a student to be considered eligbile to study a postgraduate degree.
Postgraduate degrees are taken for a number of different reasons, such as to move into academia and research, or to specialise or advance in a particular career path. Some people choose to complete a postgraduate degree to change study or career paths entirely.
There are a lot of different aspects involved in postgraduate education. If you are considering expanding your knowledge with a postgraduate degree, it’s important to understand the details. This guide covers everything you need to know about postgraduate degrees.
So, what is the difference between a postgraduate degree and a graduate degree ? The answer is basically nothing! The term 'graduate degree' tends to be more widely used in America, whilst 'postgraduate degree' is usually the preferred terminology in the UK. But both terms mean the same thing – and refer to degrees undertaken after completion of an undergraduate or bachelors degree, for example a masters degree or PhD.
A masters degree is one of the most common postgraduate courses completed after undergraduate study. This postgraduate qualification can take a number of different forms, but what they all have in common is that they usually require an undergraduate degree to gain entry. These forms of postgraduate degree include:
Masters of Arts (MA)
Masters of Science (MSc)
Masters of Philosophy (MPhil)
Masters of Research (MRes)
Masters of Engineering (MEng)
The majority of masters courses require a thesis or dissertation to graduate in addition to any coursework. In the UK, most masters courses are a year in length, apart from some professional masters courses such as Masters of Architecture (MArch) which are generally between two and three years. Most masters courses in the US are two years in duration, as are many masters courses in Europe .
Masters degrees are gained either through a taught or research course . In a taught masters, students are awarded a Masters of Arts (MA), Masters of Science (MSc) or a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) .
MA and MSc are the two most common types of postgraduate degrees. MA courses focus on arts and humanities subjects, whereas MSc degrees focus on STEM subject areas.
An MPhil focuses on advanced research in various fields. It involves independent study and the completion of a substantial thesis or dissertation. While often seen as a pathway to a PhD, it also holds value as a standalone qualification for careers in academia, research or related fields.
An MLitt is quite a rare masters degree option and originates from the ancient universities in England and Scotland. It is a postgraduate degree that's awarded for arts and humanities subjects at select universities in both countries. An abbreviation of Master of Letter – the Latin translation of Magister Litterarum – an MLitt serves as an alternative to the more common MA or MPhil degrees, and can be offered as either a taught or research degree. Relatively few British universities offer the MLitt, and most of these are in Scotland. A very select number of universities in the USA and Australia also offer it as a specialised masters degree option.
Some masters courses like an MArch or a Masters of Engineering (MEng) are taken after completing the relevant undergraduate course with a long-term view to qualify as an architect or engineer. These masters programs are essential parts of the qualification routes and those who wish to become architects or engineers must complete them to be able to practise in their chosen career.
Other masters courses are about specialising or focussing on a career choice, especially those in the law or medical professionals. There are some masters courses that are for those graduates who already have a first degree but wish to retrain in another subject, such as a Masters in Town Planning or Masters in Journalism, for these courses it is assumed that the student has a number of academic skills that are transferable to the new subject.
An integrated masters degree combines undergraduate and postgraduate studies in a single program. Students studying an integrated masters will start with a bachelors degree and move seamlessly on to a masters program after completing their undergraduate studies. Common subjects for integrated masters include engineering, natural sciences, mathematics and some social sciences. These programs offer an accelerated path to advanced masters study, allowing students to deepen their expertise while potentially saving time and money.
We've launched our new Postgrad Solutions Study Bursaries for 2024. Full-time, part-time, online and blended-learning students eligible. 2024 & 2025 January start dates students welcome. Study postgraduate courses in any subject taught anywhere worldwide.
A PhD (Doctorate of Philosophy) is the highest level of postgraduate qualification available that can be studied. This advanced postgraduate degree involves an element of both research and working at an institution.
The majority of students who go on to complete a PhD have already undertaken a masters course in a relevant subject. Often, this will be an MPhil or MRes, but this is not exclusively the case. It is mostly those who wish to go into academic research or teaching who decide to complete PhDs. The whole point of a PhD is further specialisation and it's not an option for changing career path, apart from progressing in the world of academia.
Postgraduate diplomas are taught courses that do not require students to complete a dissertation or thesis. This type of postgraduate qualification offers the same level of study as a masters degree, but is completed over a shorter period of time because it doesn’t require a dissertation.
If you undertake a masters course but do not complete the dissertation this is the postgraduate qualification that you will probably find yourself finishing with. Postgraduate diplomas can be a great way for those who are unsure about whether they need or want to complete a full masters course, whilst still finishing with a postgraduate-level qualification to specialise their knowledge base and advance career skills.
There are some UK professions, such as teaching , that involve a postgraduate diploma ( PGCE in Education ) that allows graduates who did not study teaching to quickly qualify in an education profession.
Postgraduate certificates are similar to postgraduate diplomas, in that they do not require the completion of a dissertation or thesis in order to get the final qualification. This postgraduate course allows students to gain specialised knowledge in their chosen area in a shorter amount of time. A postgraduate certificate is shorter than a postgraduate diploma, making it one of the shortest postgraduate qualifications to attain.
There are two main ways to apply for a postgraduate degree in the UK. One is via UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service), which is the centralised system for students studying an undergraduate degree at a UK university. The other, and more common way to apply for a postgraduate degree is directly through the university. Once you have found the postgraduate degree that you want to apply for, check with the university’s admissions department and find out how best to proceed with your application.
The entry requirements for postgraduate degrees will vary depending on the level of qualification, the course and the university. In most cases, you will need to have completed an undergraduate degree in order to obtain a postgraduate degree, although some postgraduate qualifications may accept students who have a suitable level of work experience in the subject area.
Higher postgraduate level qualifications, such as a PhD, will usually require you to have both an undergraduate and postgraduate degree in order to have a place on the course. You should always check the specific course requirements when choosing a postgraduate degree.
There are various funding options for postgraduate degrees in the UK – these include scholarships and grants offered by universities based on academic achievement or specific criteria, as well as government-backed student loans covering tuition fees and living expenses. Employer sponsorship is another route, especially for courses relevant to a particular field of work. Research councils provide funding for research-based degrees, while charitable trusts and foundations offer support in diverse fields. Many students also opt for part-time work alongside their studies.
You can find out more about funding your postgraduate degree in our Ultimate Postgraduate Student Funding Guide .
A postgraduate degree is an excellent way to specialise, retrain and develop new skills in your chosen subject and career path. Postgraduate degrees tend to be shorter than undergraduate degrees, letting you efficiently gain further qualifications once acquiring basic academic skills from an undergraduate degree.
Further postgraduate study gives students the opportunity to learn and gain a deep understanding of their chosen subject and is well worth the time and money. Having a postgraduate qualification can also help improve your future career prospects, since you have demonstrated both a deeper understanding of a subject area and a determination to complete further academic studies.
Alice Tucker is a 21-year-old student studying an MA in Human Rights at the University of Manchester. She experienced a whole range of emotions when she discovered she was being awarded one of our bursaries, saying, “I was shocked but extremely grateful. Masters degrees are very difficult to fund and I was working two part-time jobs during the final year of my undergraduate degree to save up for this. Even with those savings, I am constantly thinking about how I will make my money last. Having this bursary will definitely remove that pressure for me so that I can focus on studying for my degree.”
What Is The Difference Between Graduate & Postgraduate Programs?
What is a Masters Degree?
What is a PhD?
Postgraduate Diploma
What is an MBA?
Master of Arts: What is an MA?
Master of Science: What is an MSc?
Postgrad Solutions Study Bursaries
Exclusive bursaries Open day alerts Funding advice Application tips Latest PG news
Take 2 minutes to complete our Destination Survey for the chance to win a Postgrad Study Bursary worth £2,000.
All we need to know is:
IMAGES
VIDEO
COMMENTS
What Is a Thesis? | Ultimate Guide & Examples
How to Write a Masters Dissertation or Thesis: Top Tips
Definition of Dissertation and Thesis. The dissertation or thesis is a scholarly treatise that substantiates a specific point of view as a result of original research that is conducted by students during their graduate study. At Cornell, the thesis is a requirement for the receipt of the M.A. and M.S. degrees and some professional master's ...
postgraduate certificates or diplomas and should be characterised by the following: It should demonstrate a basic understanding of the research process. The student should demonstrate ability to systematically sustain a research ... A thesis is a scientific study or investigation meant to address widely shared problems
Dissertation vs. Thesis—What's the Difference?
How To Write A Dissertation Or Thesis (+ Examples)
The foundation of the entire postgraduate or doctoral research program is disciplinary knowledge. At most universities, one of the main requirements is that the research introduces or expands a novelty that contributes to the advancement of the subject [].Even though the writing is a clear component of higher-level coursework and is frequently acknowledged as a source of significant concern ...
What Is a Dissertation? | Guide, Examples, & Template
Thesis or dissertation writing is an important and essential task for postgraduate students that must be performed correctly through following the standard guidelines for scientific writing.
Researching and Writing a Masters Dissertation
What is the Difference Between a Dissertation and a Thesis
Postgraduate Dissertation and Theses. Whatever masters subject you choose, your research project and dissertation will be an important part of your masters degree or PhD. In this section you can find out how to go about determining the best way to tackle your research project; top tips on preparing and writing your dissertation or thesis; and ...
Dissertation Structure & Layout 101 (+ Examples)
Writing a Scientific-Style Thesis
Keep an idea file where you jot down potential research ideas. Be on the look out for new data that might help provide new insights into a topic, or for past research that might be productively replicated in other circumstances. In order to write a master's thesis you must find a faculty member who is willing to be your thesis advisor.
Postgraduate thesis | Engineering
PhD thesis demonstrates the capacity to apply specialised research skills (i.e. expert knowledge of a particular concept or method) in an area of interest to you so that you can make significant and original contribution to knowledge. At this level, the focus is on identifying a 'gap' in knowledge and addressing it, hence you advance knowledge ...
But a masters project and thesis should not dominate your time, as the main task of postgraduate training is to develop the all-round skills to be a good paediatrician. This includes an understanding of child health epidemiology and research methods, but too much of a focus on research can detract from clinical responsibilities and clinical ...
A master's thesis, also known as a postgraduate thesis, is a research project typically undertaken by students pursuing a master's degree.It serves as a capstone to their academic program, allowing them to demonstrate their proficiency in their chosen field. A master's thesis is usually narrower in scope and shorter in length compared to a doctoral dissertation, with the primary goal of ...
What Is A Master's Thesis? - GradSchoolHub.com
All the three types of research revolve around an argument, a thesis. They of course differ in terms of student level, that is complexity. But, what makes a bachelor's thesis different from master's and PhD theses in terms of procedures of researching given that all of them may follow the same process of research, questions or hypotheses, review of the literature, methodology, results and ...
The thesis is a prerequisite for obtaining the Postgraduate Degree. Its elaboration is part of the academic practice and apprenticeship; it is based on literature or empirical research and
What is a Postgraduate Degree? A Definition & Guide