Thesis requirements: What to consider when preparing

The thesis preparation stage is important in the work of every scientist, because the quality of its writing determines whether they will receive an academic degree. However, the process of writing a thesis is not easy and requires a significant amount of time and compliance with the relevant requirements. Today we will look at the main requirements that, if followed, will contribute to the preparation of a high-quality thesis.

What is a thesis?

A thesis is a type of qualification work containing original research results and completed by a researcher to obtain an academic degree. 

In Latvia, according to the Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers “On the Procedure and Criteria for Awarding Doctoral Degrees (Promotion)”, a thesis is required to obtain a Doctor of Sciences (PhD) degree.

Required scientific publications for defending a thesis

According to the “Regulations on the Procedure and Criteria for Promotion”, the main results of the thesis must be published (or accepted for publication) in at least 5 articles in reputable peer-reviewed scientific journals. These publications must be included in the list of scientific publications approved by the council, and the results of the thesis must be reported at a minimum of two international conferences.

In addition, in order to be admitted to the defence of the thesis, the scientist must have at least 2 scientific articles published (or accepted for publication) in Scopus and Web of Science journals.

 
Criteria for evaluating doctoral thesis

The thesis must confirm the scientific and professional qualifications of the candidate for the degree. The work must evaluate existing research on the chosen topic, justify the methods used, analyse and interpret the results in detail, describe the conclusions and formulate recommendations.

Doctoral thesis are evaluated according to the following criteria, in accordance with the “Regulations on the Procedure and Criteria for Promotion” in Latvia:

1. Does the doctoral thesis contain a scientific and methodological solution to the problem that is consistent with international standards?
2. Is the research in the thesis complete and sufficiently extensive for the PhD (Doctor of Sciences) level?
3. Can the results obtained be considered a significant contribution to the development of the relevant scientific field or several fields?
4. Have the main results of the thesis research been published in recognised peer-reviewed scientific journals?
5. Are there any signs of falsification, plagiarism or other violations of academic integrity in the work?

What requirements must be met when writing a thesis?

A doctoral thesis confirms that the candidate for the degree, under the guidance of an experienced scientist, has independently carried out original research. This work should contribute to the relevant branch or sub-branch of science. The thesis confirms the scientist's ability to independently plan research work, as well as analyse the results obtained and formulate reasonable conclusions. 

It is worth noting that the requirements for thesis research may be set by universities on an individual basis. Below, we will look at the current requirements for thesis using the example of the University of Latvia.

Structure of the thesis 

• title page
• contents
• list of abbreviations used in the work (if necessary)
• list of tables and figures
• abstract of the work with keywords
• introduction
• main part – presentation of the topic by sections and subsections
• conclusions and recommendations
• list of references and sources used
• acknowledgements (at the discretion of the doctoral candidate)
• appendices (if necessary)

The main part of the thesis usually consists of 3-4 sections of approximately equal length, which can be divided into subsections. The structure of the thesis often depends on the specifics of the topic; the work presents the theoretical basis and forms the research design. It also justifies the methodology and conducts research, followed by the presentation and interpretation of the results obtained.

Summary of the thesis

When submitting a thesis for evaluation, one of the mandatory appendices is a summary of the thesis. 

The summary of the thesis is a concise reflection of the content of the thesis. The structure should be concise and constructive, confirming the author's ability to focus on the subject matter of their work. 

The introduction should describe the subject matter of the thesis, the purpose and direction of the research. It is also necessary to indicate the scientific novelty, the testing of the work and how the research results were implemented in practice.

The text can be presented in any format, but it must fully describe the process of revealing the scientific problem. In addition, it is necessary to briefly demonstrate the originality of the author's thinking. This should be confirmed by analytical, statistical or graphic materials, as well as conclusions and recommendations. When compiling a summary of the thesis, the desired volume should be taken into account, which is 20 to 30 pages (40,000-60,000 characters with spaces).

Approbation of the thesis

Approbation is the process of verifying the reliability and significance of research results, and is also a mandatory requirement for a thesis. Approbation of the results of thesis research increases the likelihood of identifying shortcomings in the work by 90% and makes it possible to correct them in a timely manner.

 
Formats for thesis approbation 

• review of the work by experienced scientists
• publication of the thesis results in peer-reviewed journals
• discussion of reports during scientific conferences

The above list of validation formats is not exhaustive, but the options listed are among the most common and widely recognised in scientific practice. It is these formats that provide confirmation of the reliability and scientific novelty of the results obtained by the scientific community.

Tips for writing a thesis

In addition to the above requirements for the thesis, we recommend that you observe the following aspects for successful evaluation of your work by the commission:

1. Originality of the topic. When preparing your thesis research, it is important to choose a topic that reflects novelty and will allow you to obtain unique results.
2. Consultations with your supervisor. Each stage of writing a thesis requires considerable attention. It is important to consult with your supervisor to obtain constructive criticism, advice and recommendations that will help you improve your work without wasting time.
3. Academic integrity. Every scholar is obliged to adhere to the basic principles of academic integrity in the course of their work. A thesis must fully comply with its established values and principles.

Preparing a thesis requires a responsible and structured approach. It is important to pay attention to the requirements of your higher education institution or organisation and to start the writing process early. A high-quality thesis, the availability of all necessary publications, and compliance with all requirements will ensure that you receive the desired academic degree. 

To publish the necessary articles in Scopus and Web of Science in time, contact Scientific Publications. We provide comprehensive support at every stage of publication, from finding a journal to submitting an article and ensuring its successful indexing. Still have questions? Fill out the form below, and our manager will contact you shortly. Together towards scientific achievements!