Understanding CSE Format: Citation Examples for Theses and Dissertations

Navigating the Council of Science Editors (CSE) citation format can be challenging, especially for theses and dissertations. This guide provides practical examples to help you correctly format your citations according to CSE guidelines.
By Jamie

CSE Citation for Theses and Dissertations

When writing a thesis or dissertation, citing sources correctly is crucial for academic integrity and clarity. Below are examples of how to format citations in the CSE style specifically for theses and dissertations.

1. Thesis Citation

Format:
Author Last Name First Initial(s). Year. Title of thesis. [Type of thesis]. Institution; Location.
Example:
Smith J. 2020. The impact of climate change on marine biodiversity. [Master's thesis]. University of Washington; Seattle.

2. Dissertation Citation

Format:
Author Last Name First Initial(s). Year. Title of dissertation. [Type of dissertation]. Institution; Location.
Example:
Johnson A. 2021. Innovations in renewable energy technologies. [Doctoral dissertation]. Stanford University; Stanford.

3. Thesis with Publisher Information

Format:
Author Last Name First Initial(s). Year. Title of thesis. [Type of thesis]. Institution; Location: Publisher.
Example:
Miller R. 2019. Urban sustainability practices: A comparative analysis. [Master's thesis]. Harvard University; Cambridge: Harvard University Press.

4. Thesis Available Online

Format:
Author Last Name First Initial(s). Year. Title of thesis. [Type of thesis]. Institution; Location: Publisher; Available from: URL.
Example:
Lee K. 2022. The role of artificial intelligence in modern education. [Master's thesis]. Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Cambridge: MIT Press; Available from: https://dspace.mit.edu/handle/1721.1/123456.

Summary

Citing your theses and dissertations correctly in CSE format is essential for maintaining academic standards. The examples provided above illustrate various scenarios, ensuring you can confidently reference your sources. For further guidance, consult the latest CSE manual or your institution’s writing resources.