History Dissertation Structure 1. Title Page • Dissertation title • Your name • Institution, department, and course • Supervisor’s name • Submission date 2. Abstract • A concise summary of the dissertation (150-300 words) covering the research question, methodology, key findings, and conclusion. 3. Acknowledgments • Optional section to thank those who supported your research (e.g., supervisors, family, or funding sources). 4. Table of Contents • List all sections and subsections with page numbers. 5. List of Figures and Tables (if applicable) • Include titles and page numbers of any visual aids. 6. Introduction • Background to the topic and its historical significance. • Research aims and objectives. • Research question(s). • Scope and limitations of the study. • Overview of the structure of the dissertation. 7. Literature Review • Review and analyze existing scholarship related to your topic. • Identify gaps in the literature that your research addresses. • Theoretical frameworks and historiographical debates relevant to your study. 8. Methodology • Explain your research approach (e.g., archival research, qualitative analysis, comparative methods). • Justify the sources and methods chosen. • Discuss any challenges or limitations. 9. Chapters (Main Body) Divide your dissertation into logical chapters based on your research questions or chronological/ thematic approach: Chapter 1: Context and Background • Set the historical context for your topic. • Key events, figures, or developments. Chapter 2: Analysis • Provide detailed analysis of primary and secondary sources. • Address your research questions. • Support arguments with evidence. Chapter 3: Case Studies or Comparative Analysis (if applicable) • In-depth focus on specific examples or comparisons. (Adjust the number and focus of chapters based on your topic.) 10. Conclusion • Summarize key findings and arguments. • Highlight the significance of your research. • Discuss implications for further study. 11. Bibliography • List all primary and secondary sources cited in your dissertation, formatted according to your institution’s preferred citation style (e.g., Chicago, MLA). 12. Appendices (if applicable) • Include supplementary material like documents, maps, charts, or interview transcripts.
History Dissertation Structure