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How to Cite a Dissertation or Thesis in APA (7th edition)

Learn how to cite doctoral dissertations and master's theses in APA format (7th edition). This guide includes the reference list format, in-text citation examples, and key formatting rules.

APA Reference List Format

Here is the standard APA format for citing a dissertation or thesis in your reference list:

Author, A. A. (Year). Title of dissertation or thesis [Doctoral dissertation/Master's thesis, Institution Name]. Database Name. https://url

APA In-Text Citation

Use one of these formats when referencing this source within your paper:

Parenthetical

(Smith, 2024)

Narrative

Smith (2024) found...

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Gather source information: Collect the author name, title, publication date, and URL or DOI for your dissertation or thesis.
  2. Format the reference: Arrange the elements following the APA (7th edition) template shown above.
  3. Create the in-text citation: Add a parenthetical or narrative citation in your paper where you reference this source.
  4. Add to your reference list: Include the full formatted citation at the end of your paper.
  5. Double-check formatting: Verify italics, punctuation, capitalization, and hanging indents match APA requirements.

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Cite a Dissertation or Thesis in Other Styles

Dissertation or Thesis in MLADissertation or Thesis in ChicagoDissertation or Thesis in HarvardDissertation or Thesis in VancouverDissertation or Thesis in IEEE

Cite Other Sources in APA

Website in APABook in APAJournal Article in APAYouTube Video in APAPodcast in APANewspaper Article in APAPDF in APAInterview in APASocial Media Post in APAGovernment Document in APAConference Paper in APALecture or PowerPoint in APAImage or Photograph in APA

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