How to Cite a Dissertation or Thesis in Chicago (17th edition)
Learn how to cite doctoral dissertations and master's theses in Chicago format (17th edition). This guide includes the reference list format, in-text citation examples, and key formatting rules.
Chicago Bibliography Format
Here is the standard Chicago format for citing a dissertation or thesis in your bibliography:
Author Last Name, First Name. "Title of Dissertation." PhD diss./MA thesis, Institution Name, Year.
Chicago In-Text Citation
Use one of these formats when referencing this source within your paper:
Parenthetical
(Smith 2024, 45)
Narrative
Smith (2024) demonstrates...
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 Chicago (17th 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 Chicago requirements.
Generate This Citation Automatically
Skip the manual formatting. Paste a DOI, URL, or ISBN into CitationEasy and get a perfectly formatted Chicago citation in seconds.
Cite in Chicago Now →Cite a Dissertation or Thesis in Other Styles
Dissertation or Thesis in APADissertation or Thesis in MLADissertation or Thesis in HarvardDissertation or Thesis in VancouverDissertation or Thesis in IEEE
Cite Other Sources in Chicago
Website in ChicagoBook in ChicagoJournal Article in ChicagoYouTube Video in ChicagoPodcast in ChicagoNewspaper Article in ChicagoPDF in ChicagoInterview in ChicagoSocial Media Post in ChicagoGovernment Document in ChicagoConference Paper in ChicagoLecture or PowerPoint in ChicagoImage or Photograph in Chicago