Written By - Derick de Souza

Reviewed By OMC Staff

The requirement for a thesis for a master’s degree depends on the program and institution. Different master’s degree programs have different requirements, and some may allow students to complete a thesis or pursue a non-thesis track.

The following are two types of master’s degree programs:

Do you need a thesis for masters?

Master’s Programs With A Thesis

Students in thesis-based master’s programs are typically required to conduct original research and write a thesis based on their findings. The thesis is a lengthy document that adds new information or insights to the field of study. Working closely with a faculty advisor or committee, conducting literature reviews, designing and implementing research, analyzing data, and presenting the findings are common steps in completing a thesis.

Master’s Programs Without A Thesis

Instead of a thesis, students in non-thesis master’s programs may be required to complete a comprehensive examination or a capstone project. The capstone project may include practical applications of program knowledge. Some non-thesis programs place a greater emphasis on coursework, allowing students to thoroughly understand the subject matter without the extensive research and writing requirements of a thesis.

It is critical to thoroughly review the specific requirements of the master’s program you are interested in, as these can vary greatly. Some programs may also provide both thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to select based on their interests and career goals.

If you are thinking about getting a master’s degree, contact the admissions office or program coordinator of the specific institution and program you are interested in to get accurate and up-to-date information on their thesis requirements.

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Southern New Hampshire University

PROGRAM: Online Masters Degrees

Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 3,000 on-campus students and over 60,000 online students, making us one of the fastest-growing universities in the country. Founded in 1932, we’ve been relentlessly reinventing higher education ever since and have gained national recognition for our dedication to helping students transform their lives and the lives of those around them.

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