Thesis Writing: A Key Stage

Writing the Thesis dissertation is a central stage of the doctoral journey. More than simply presenting research findings, it requires strong analytical, synthesis, and scientific communication skills.

It is a long and demanding process that can sometimes feel challenging. It is therefore important to prepare for it early, set realistic goals, and make use of the available resources and support.

 Manuscript Format

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The thesis may be written in one of the following two formats:

• Monograph
• Thesis by Articles
  (In FLSH, the format must be indicated when registering the thesis topic.)

guidelines for theses by articles (FLSH)

 

Language of Thesis

The thesis is generally written in French. However, with the agreement of the thesis supervisor (or the thesis committee), it may be written in German, Italian, or English.

 

Institutional guidelines

There are no institutional rules regarding the content format of the thesis, but specific requirements apply to the title page and layout.

Template for title page (FSE)

Template for Thesis Writing (FD)
Practical guide for thesis layout

Mandatory elements of the manuscript

Each copy must include:

• A title page
• The imprimatur statement (after the title page)
• An abstract, at least in French and English
• A list of keywords before the table of contents

The title page must include:

• First name and last name of the author
• Title of the thesis
• Name of the faculty and, if applicable, the institute or sub-unit concerned
• First name and last name of the thesis supervisor(s), jury members, and the date of the defense

⚠️ Any material subject to intellectual property rights must be explicitly authorized for publication or removed from the manuscript.

Regulation on compliance with scientific integrity
Guide on scientific integrity

Resources to support your writing process

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Online Resources

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