When you finally finish writing your thesis or dissertation, there’s one section that allows you to step out of the formal academic tone and express genuine gratitude: the acknowledgements section of Thesis & Dissertation Acknowledgements. While it may not directly impact your grades, acknowledgements add a personal touch to your work and show appreciation to those who supported you during your research journey.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about thesis and dissertation acknowledgements, including what they are, who to thank, how to structure them, writing tips, and real examples.
What Are Acknowledgements in a Thesis or Dissertation?
Acknowledgements are a short section in your thesis or dissertation where you thank the people who contributed to your academic success. Unlike the rest of your work, acknowledgements are written in a more personal, informal, and warm tone.
This is where you can appreciate:
1. Academic Mentors and Supervisors
Your academic mentors and supervisors are often the backbone of your thesis or dissertation. They provide continuous guidance, constructive feedback, and professional advice throughout your research journey. Without their direction, completing a large-scale academic project would be extremely challenging.
Acknowledging your supervisor shows respect and gratitude for the time and effort they invested in helping you succeed. It also reflects professionalism and academic courtesy. For example, you can thank them for:
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Offering valuable critiques that improved your work.
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Motivating you when challenges felt overwhelming.
Example line:
“I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to my supervisor, Dr. [Name], for their constant support, patience, and expertise, which made this dissertation possible.”
2. Institutions That Provided Funding or Resources
Many research projects depend on institutional or financial support. Universities, departments, or external funding organizations may provide grants, scholarships, libraries, laboratories, or research tools that are essential for your study.
Recognizing them not only fulfills ethical standards but also strengthens your credibility as a researcher. It demonstrates transparency about who supported your work and ensures you acknowledge the contribution of these organizations.
Example line:
“This research was generously funded by [Funding Institution], and I am grateful for the access to facilities and resources provided by [University/Department].”
3. Friends and Peers Who Offered Support
Research can feel isolating, but friends and peers often make the journey more manageable. Whether it’s classmates who shared resources, colleagues who participated in discussions, or peers who provided feedback, these individuals deserve recognition.
Acknowledging friends shows that you value collaboration and community. It’s also a way to highlight the emotional and intellectual encouragement you received outside formal supervision.
Example line:
“I am grateful to my peers at [University/Research Group], who not only provided valuable insights during discussions but also created a supportive environment that made this journey less stressful.”
4. Family Members for Emotional Encouragement
Writing a thesis or dissertation is not just an academic task—it’s an emotional and mental challenge. Family members often provide the emotional backbone that keeps students motivated. Parents, siblings, spouses, or even children may have made sacrifices, offered encouragement, or simply believed in your potential when things got tough.
Including family in your acknowledgements adds a personal and heartfelt touch. It shows appreciation for their love, patience, and support, which often go unrecognized in formal academic contexts.
Example line:
“Finally, I would like to dedicate this work to my family, whose unwavering love, patience, and encouragement gave me the strength to complete this dissertation.”
Why Are Acknowledgements Important?
Some students treat acknowledgements as optional, but they serve a bigger purpose:
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Show professionalism – Acknowledging support demonstrates maturity and gratitude.
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Highlight collaboration – Research is rarely a solo journey; this section recognizes teamwork.
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Personal touch – It makes your thesis or dissertation more relatable.
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Record of support – Acknowledgements create a lasting tribute to people who helped you succeed.
Where Do Acknowledgements Go in a Thesis or Dissertation?
Typically, acknowledgements are placed:
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Before the Table of Contents – Most common placement in academic writing.
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After the Abstract – Some institutions prefer it here.
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Before the Introduction – If not included earlier.
Always check your university’s formatting guidelines to ensure proper placement.
Who Should You Thank in Acknowledgements?
Knowing who to acknowledge is often the hardest part. Generally, you can divide acknowledgements into two categories:
1. Academic Acknowledgements (Formal)
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Supervisors and advisors.
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Thesis or dissertation committee members.
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Institutions, research labs, or funding bodies.
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Librarians or technical staff who assisted with resources.
2. Personal Acknowledgements (Informal)
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Family (parents, siblings, partners, children).
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Friends or classmates.
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Colleagues or peers who gave moral support.
Tip: Always prioritize academic acknowledgements before personal ones.
How to Write Thesis & Dissertation Acknowledgements
Here’s a step-by-step guide on writing acknowledgements:
Step 1: Start with Academic Support
Begin by thanking your supervisor, committee, and any academic staff. Keep this section formal and respectful.
Example:
I would like to express my deepest gratitude to my supervisor, Dr. [Name], for their invaluable guidance, feedback, and encouragement throughout this research.
Step 2: Mention Institutional or Financial Support
If you received funding, grants, or research facilities, acknowledge them.
Example:
This research was made possible through funding from [Funding Body] and the resources provided by [University/Department].
Step 3: Add Personal Acknowledgements
After formal thanks, you can appreciate friends, family, or anyone who supported you emotionally.
Example:
Finally, I am deeply grateful to my family for their unwavering support and to my friends who motivated me during challenging times.
Step 4: Keep It Concise
Acknowledgements should usually be one to two pages maximum. Avoid writing long stories—stay sincere and concise.
Writing Tips for Acknowledgements
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Be sincere – Don’t overuse flowery language; write from the heart.
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Follow hierarchy – Start with professional thanks before moving to personal.
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Use full names and titles – Show respect by acknowledging people properly.
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Avoid controversial humor – Keep the tone warm but professional.
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Check university guidelines – Some institutions have strict rules.
Examples of Thesis & Dissertation Acknowledgements
Here are a few sample acknowledgements to inspire your own writing:
Example 1: Formal Acknowledgements
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to my supervisor, Professor [Name], for their continuous support, patience, and insightful feedback. I am also grateful to the members of my dissertation committee, Dr. [Name] and Dr. [Name], for their valuable input. This research was supported by the [Funding Institution], whose contribution made this project possible.
Example 2: Personal Acknowledgements
I am deeply thankful to my family—especially my parents, [Names], for their endless love and encouragement. Special thanks to my partner, [Name], who stood by me during countless late nights of research. I also wish to thank my friends and classmates for keeping me motivated throughout this journey.
Example 3: Mixed Acknowledgements
First and foremost, I would like to thank my supervisor, Dr. [Name], whose expertise and guidance were instrumental in shaping this research. I am equally grateful to my colleagues at [University/Department], who shared resources and provided thoughtful discussions. Lastly, I dedicate this work to my family, who have been my greatest source of strength and inspiration.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Forgetting to thank your supervisor or committee.
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Making acknowledgements too long or too casual.
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Including people who did not contribute significantly.
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Using inside jokes or overly personal stories.
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Copying acknowledgements from another thesis (always write your own).
Final Thoughts
Your thesis and dissertation acknowledgements are more than just a formal requirement—they’re a chance to reflect on the support you received along your academic journey. Whether you keep it short and formal or add a personal touch, acknowledgements make your research journey more meaningful.
Remember: keep it professional, sincere, and respectful. With the right balance, your acknowledgements will be a lasting tribute to those who helped you succeed.
FAQs About Thesis & Dissertation Acknowledgements
1. Is it necessary to include acknowledgements in a thesis or dissertation?
Most institutions require them, but even if optional, it’s recommended to include acknowledgements.
2. Can I acknowledge friends in my thesis?
Yes. Friends can be acknowledged after academic supporters.
3. How long should acknowledgements be?
Usually one page, but can extend to two pages if necessary.
4. Should I mention financial support?
Yes, funding bodies and institutions should always be acknowledged.
5. Can acknowledgements be emotional or personal?
Yes, but maintain a respectful and professional tone.
