Writing a dissertation is a crucial part of academic life, especially for students pursuing higher education in the United Kingdom. Each university in the UK has its own set of rules and guidelines for dissertation write-ups. In this blog post, we will explore the different rules and regulations followed by various universities in the UK.
1. University of Oxford
The University of Oxford is known for its rigorous academic standards, and this applies to dissertation writing as well. Here are some key rules followed by Oxford:
- The dissertation should be between 10,000 to 20,000 words.
- Students are required to submit a detailed research proposal before starting their dissertation.
- Referencing should be done using the Oxford style, which includes footnotes and a bibliography.
- Students are expected to demonstrate originality and critical analysis in their research.
2. University of Cambridge
The University of Cambridge is another prestigious institution with specific guidelines for dissertation writing. Here are some important rules followed by Cambridge:
- The length of the dissertation varies across different faculties and departments.
- Students are required to include an abstract summarizing their research.
- Referencing should follow the Harvard style, which includes in-text citations and a reference list.
- The dissertation should demonstrate a deep understanding of the chosen topic and contribute to the existing body of knowledge.
3. London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) is renowned for its focus on social sciences. Here are some key rules followed by LSE:
- The dissertation length varies depending on the program and department.
- Students are required to provide a clear research question and objectives.
- Referencing should be done using the Harvard style.
- The dissertation should demonstrate critical thinking, analysis, and the ability to apply relevant theories and concepts.
4. University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the UK. Here are some important rules followed by Edinburgh:
- The dissertation length varies across different disciplines.
- Students are required to submit a research proposal and literature review.
- Referencing should be done using the Harvard style.
- The dissertation should demonstrate independent research, critical evaluation, and the ability to present findings effectively.
5. University of Manchester
The University of Manchester is known for its diverse range of programs and research opportunities. Here are some key rules followed by Manchester:
- The dissertation length varies depending on the subject and department.
- Students are required to provide a clear research question and justify its significance.
- Referencing should follow the Harvard style.
- The dissertation should demonstrate originality, critical analysis, and the ability to draw meaningful conclusions.
It is important for students to familiarize themselves with the specific rules and guidelines provided by their respective universities. These rules ensure that the dissertation meets the academic standards and requirements set by the institution. Additionally, students should consult their supervisors or departmental guidelines for further clarification and support throughout the dissertation writing process.
Remember, the dissertation is an opportunity to showcase your research skills and contribute to your chosen field of study. By adhering to the rules and guidelines set by your university, you can ensure a well-structured and academically sound dissertation.