What is a dissertation vs. thesis? Are they the same thing? I'm so confused

[Inessa]

I thought I understood this but now I'm not sure. What's the difference between a dissertation and a thesis? I hear people use them interchangeably but also sometimes they seem like different things.

From my research (asking older students and Googling), here's what I've gathered:

In the US:

• Thesis usually refers to a master's degree final project. Shorter, maybe 50-100 pages. Shows you can do research but doesn't have to be "original contribution to the field."
• Dissertation is for PhD. Much longer (200+ pages). Requires "original research" that adds something new to your field. This is the terrifying one everyone talks about.

In Europe and some other places:

• It's often reversed. Thesis can be for PhD, dissertation for master's. Or they're used interchangeably. No wonder I'm confused!

At the undergraduate level:

• Some schools have "senior thesis" or "capstone project." Similar idea but smaller scale. Like a practice dissertation.

What they have in common:

• Both are major research projects
• Both require you to work independently with a advisor
• Both take months or years
• Both involve research, writing, and a defense (presentation to a committee)

So the main difference is level: thesis = master's, dissertation = PhD. At least in the US. But also sometimes not. I'm still confused honestly.

Can anyone clarify? How do you explain this to someone who's just starting to think about grad school?

 

[Felicia]

The US/Europe flip is so annoying and I wish everyone would just pick one

But here's how I remember it: in the US, PhD = Doctor = Dissertation. They both start with D. Master's = Thesis = T. No D. Dumb but works for me.

Also important: dissertations have a "defense" where you present to your committee and they grill you. Most master's theses have a defense too but it's usually more chill. My friend's master's defense was basically a conversation. My PhD defense prep nearly killed me. Different worlds fr.

Anyway you got this! Just check your program's requirements.