While writing a thesis, every student is given a set of requirements or formalities to follow. One of these is to handle the title page. This article takes a look at how to create a thesis title page properly and what it should include.
There are certain elements that should be mentioned on a title page. Some departments offer a template to follow. Sometimes the rules vary for different disciplines, so it is always a good idea to discuss the demands with your supervisor before submitting the paper. Here is a checklist of some of the main elements that you have to include:
1. The Title of the Paper
Don’t use quotation marks around the title and make sure that the title is the same on all the documents submitted. Spell out the title in full, in other words, do not use abbreviations or acronyms.
2. The Author’s Name
Your first and last name should be included to all the papers. Sometimes you might have a student number or reference that needs to be included as well.
3. Previous Degrees
These should be included in chronological order, one degree per line. There is a certain way of setting the degree title out in terms of abbreviations and punctuation, so make sure you follow guidelines provided by your college. Include the full name of the institution (college / university) and the city/state/country you are in.
4. An ‘in Partial Fulfilment’ Sentence
This is to state that the paper is a part of a degree or qualification, so for example, “A thesis submitted in partial satisfaction of the requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy degree “.
5. The Department and Faculty
This is usually set out over three lines with single or 1.5 spacing. You need to include the department, school or program, the faculty and check the names to be sure they are correct. That’s all to tell people you study a certain course. If you say Journalism but the actual title is slightly different such as Media and Journalism, the title will consider as a wrong one. Make sure you use the correct and full one!
6. A Copyright Statement
Include a short copyright sentence and the year in which you are submitting the paper.
7. A Statement to Explain ‘All Rights Reserved’
This is usually single-spaced and in font 10. Check with your department for the correct wording to use, or see online templates. There is usually a set phrase, your discipline requires you to include to your paper.
Over all, remember not to include a page number. For the thesis, they start just after the title page.
Well-structured title page is important for your piece. Not only as it includes all the important administrative information (such as who you are, what you study and which assignment you are submitting), but it also gives a first impression of the overall paper. Use punctuation and spacing properly and, as with the paper as a whole, take extra care to check spelling. You title page is like the wrapping paper of a present!