5.5.1. Two types of PhD theses

Theses may be prepared in traditional (unified) or manuscript (re­search paper) format. In traditional format the body of text, which may ap­pear as a series of chapters, describes the work as a whole. Theses prepared in manuscript format present the research as a series of chapters based on published papers or papers prepared for publication. It is advisable to con­sider the thesis format that will best present the thesis research early in the programme in consultation with the supervisor and the supervisory com­mittee who must approve the final choice.

Although chapters (research papers) for theses prepared in manuscript format should be written as "stand alone" documents of published work or work prepared for publication, they must be logically connected and inte­grated into the thesis. An unconnected assembly of research papers is unac­ceptable. A literature review of broad scope and text describing how the chapters (research papers) are integrated must be presented in the Introduc­tion and Overview chapter. Students considering submission of a thesis in manuscript format should seek specific guidance from their supervisor, both during the practical aspects of research and in the preparation of the thesis.

5.6. PhD thesis proposal

The Doctoral thesis must demonstrate original scholarship that makes a significant contribution to knowledge in the candidate's field of study. A thesis proposal should reflect the guidance of the thesis committee. While there is no required minimum length, the proposal should contain suf­ficient detail to clearly define the research problem, describe the proposed research plan, and defend the significance of the work. Preliminary results may be included if available.

It is crucial that it contains enough detail to clearly define the re­search problem, describe the proposed research plan, and justify the significance of the work. It may also include the preliminary results of the research if they are available and add to the proposal.

The actual formats of thesis proposals vary according to the institu­tion. Yet, in general, its essential element is an abstract addressed to the sci­entific audience, and which contains sufficient information for evaluation of the project. Basic components of a thesis proposal abstract are:

- a short description of the project background and its significance, the statement which undoubtedly proves the relevance of the pro­posed investigation;

- defining the specific aims of the thesis;

- presentation of the methods which will be used in the process of research.

At the core of the thesis proposals are two issues. First, the identifica­tion of a worthwhile problem or question which has not been pre­viously answered, and secondly, the question or the solution to it that you suggest, or that is the result of your investigation. The authenticity of your contribution to science lies in that particular solution or answer that your thesis is about.

Thesis proposal abstract contains a clear and concise statement of the question that is the subject of the investigation you want to pursue. In order to prove the originality and value of your contribution, you must present a thorough review of the existing literature on the subject, as well as on other related subjects. Based on that, you need to demonstrate that the previous research has not answered your topic fully and that therefore it needs further examination. At that point you should outline your own approach, point out how it differs from previous ones in terms of its advantages over them.