What is a dissertation?

A dissertation is a substantial piece of academic writing based on original research, typically required to complete a doctoral degree (PhD) or, in some cases, a master's program. It involves identifying a research question, conducting a literature review, collecting and analyzing data, and presenting findings in a structured format. The purpose of a dissertation is to demonstrate a student's ability to conduct independent research and contribute new knowledge to their field. Dissertations are usually reviewed by a committee of experts and defended in an oral examination.