MA Dissertation Examples

What is a Dissertation?

A dissertation is a long-form academic paper written on a specific topic and then presented to a panel of experts in the field. The purpose of a dissertation is twofold: first, to show that you have done extensive research on the topic at hand, and second, to contribute new knowledge or insights to the field. Typically, dissertations are highly specialized and written for a specific audience (unlike an undergraduate paper, which may be read by anyone interested in the topic).

Difference Between Dissertation and Thesis

The key distinction between a master's thesis and a MA dissertation is that a thesis is typically shorter and more focused than a dissertation. A thesis is generally completed before you begin your career, while a dissertation is typically completed during your doctoral studies. In some disciplines, the word "thesis" is used interchangeably with "dissertation."

What are the Components of the MA Dissertation?

The main components of an MA dissertation are mentioned below;

1. Introduction
2. Literature Review
3. Methodology
4. Results
5. Discussion
6. Conclusion
7. Bibliography
8. Appendices & Acknowledgements
9. Abstract

1.      Introduction

The introduction is where you will provide an overview of your topic and explain why it is important. This section should also include a literature review that summarises your topic's existing research.

2.      Literature Review

The literature review critically evaluates the existing research on your chosen topic. It should identify gaps in the existing research and justify why your research is needed.

3.      Methodology

The methodology section will describe the methods you used to conduct your research. It includes information on the participants, the data collection procedures, and the data analysis methods.

4.      Results

The results section is where you will present the findings of your research. This includes both quantitative and qualitative data, as well as any statistical analyses that were conducted.

5.      Discussion

The discussion section is where you will interpret the results of your study and discuss their implications. It includes discussing the limitations of your study and suggesting future research directions.

6.      Conclusion

The conclusion is a summary of the main points of your dissertation. It should highlight the contributions of your research and reiterate its importance.

7.      Bibliography

The bibliography lists all the sources you used in your dissertation, including books, articles, websites, etc. It should be formatted according to the style guide specified by your university.

8.      Appendices & Acknowledgements

The appendices are additional materials relevant to your dissertation but not essential to its main arguments. This can include things like questionnaires, interview transcripts, or data sets.

The acknowledgements are where you can thank individuals who have helped you while writing your dissertation. It can include your supervisor, family members, friends, or anyone else who provided support.

9.      Abstract

An abstract summarises your dissertation that briefly states its main arguments and conclusions. The abstract should be no more than one page long and placed at the beginning of your dissertation.

How to Write a Dissertation?

There are many different types of dissertations, and the best way to write one depends on the type of project you are undertaking. However, there are some general principles that all dissertations should follow:

1) Choose a topic that you are passionate about

2) Narrow your focus so that you can adequately cover the topic in the length of the paper

3) Develop an original argument in response to your research question

4) Support your argument with evidence from scholarly sources

5) Cite all sources using a proper academic citation style

6) Edit and proofread your paper carefully before submitting it

How to Select a Topic for Your Dissertation?

1.      Consider Your Interests

One of the best ways to choose a topic for your dissertation is to consider your interests. What are you passionate about? What topics do you find most intriguing? By choosing a topic you are interested in, you will be more motivated to work on your dissertation and more likely to produce high-quality work.

2.      Consider Your Skills and Experience

Another important factor to consider while choosing a topic for your dissertation is your skills and experience. What topics are you most knowledgeable about? What topics would you feel most comfortable researching and writing about? By choosing a topic you feel confident in, you will be more likely to produce a high standard of work.

3.      Consider the Scope of the Project

When choosing a topic for your dissertation, it is important to consider the project's scope. Is the topic too specific or general? Will you be able to do the study in the time allotted? In order to successfully finish the assignment, you should pick a topic that is neither too limited nor too wide.

4.      Consider the Resources Available

Another factor to consider when choosing a dissertation topic is the available resources. Do you have access to the necessary resources (e.g., data, literature)? Will you be able to obtain the necessary resources within the time frame of the project? Choosing a topic for which you have access to the necessary resources to complete the project without difficulty is important.

5.      Consult with Your Supervisor

Once you have considered all the factors mentioned above, it is important to consult your supervisor before making a final decision on your dissertation topic. Your supervisor can provide guidance and feedback on your ideas and help you make a decision best suited to your skills, experience, and interests.

3 Stand-Out MA Dissertations Examples

Dissertations are typically expected to be original research and can be either quantitative or qualitative. No matter the type of dissertation, there are certain standards that all dissertations must meet to be successful. Any student can learn from three examples of well-written, stand-out dissertations.

1) "The role of Fair Trade in sustaining smallholder farmers in Malawi" by Mphatso Thompson (University of Greenwich)

This dissertation looks at the role of Fair Trade concerning smallholder farmers in Malawi. The study found that Fair Trade has contributed to sustainability for smallholder farmers by providing them with a stable income, improving their livelihoods and allowing them to send their children to school.

However, the study also found some challenges associated with Fair Trade, such as power relationships between farmers and buyers and the need for farmers to conform to certain standards to be certified. Overall, this is an excellent example of a well-researched and thought-provoking dissertation.

2) "An exploration of Black British women's lived experiences of parenting within a white supremacist society" by Samantha, real name (Bournemouth University)

This powerful dissertation explores the experiences of black British women parenting within a white supremacist society. Through interviews with black British mothers, the author highlights these women's unique daily challenges, such as microaggressions, gaslighting, and imposter syndrome.

The author also discusses how black British mothers navigate parenthood while trying to protect their mental health and well-being. This is an important piece of work that sheds light on an often-overlooked group of people.

3) "Doreen Grey: A change from hopelessness to hope" by Karen Anne Bradley (Newman University)

This moving dissertation tells the story of Dooren Grey, a woman who was homeless for many years before finally getting her life back on track. The author uses Dooren's story to explore the issues of homelessness and addiction and how these problems can be tackled through interventions such as housing first initiatives.

The author also discusses how Dooren's story can give hope to other people struggling with similar problems. This is an inspiring example of how research can be used to make a difference in people's lives.