How to Cite a Dissertation or Thesis in OSCOLA (4th edition)
Learn how to cite doctoral dissertations and master's theses in OSCOLA format (4th edition). This guide includes the reference list format, in-text citation examples, and key formatting rules.
OSCOLA Bibliography Format
Here is the standard OSCOLA format for citing a dissertation or thesis in your bibliography:
OSCOLA Example for a Dissertation or Thesis
A complete OSCOLA reference for a dissertation or thesis, formatted by the official OSCOLA CSL style definition — the same engine that powers the generator on this site:
Vasquez E, “Reading Practices in the Digital Archive” (Doctoral dissertation, State University 2022) <https://www.example.org/theses/vasquez>
Matching in-text citation: Elena Vasquez, “Reading Practices in the Digital Archive” (Doctoral dissertation, State University 2022) <https://www.example.org/theses/vasquez>.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Gather source information: Collect the author name, title, publication date, and URL or DOI for your dissertation or thesis.
- Format the reference: Arrange the elements following the OSCOLA (4th edition) template shown above.
- Create the in-text citation: Add a parenthetical or narrative citation in your paper where you reference this source.
- Add to your bibliography: Include the full formatted citation at the end of your paper.
- Double-check formatting: Verify italics, punctuation, capitalization, and hanging indents match OSCOLA requirements.
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