How to Cite a Thesis/Dissertation in AMA Citation Style
Learn the exact format with examples, in-text citations, and common mistakes to avoid.
Citation Format
Basic Template
1. Author. Thesis Title. [dissertation/thesis]. University Name; Year.
Citation Components
Superscript Number
Superscript 1, 2, 3, etc.
Author
Last name Initial(s).
Thesis Title
Sentence case. No italics or quotation marks.
[Degree Type]
[dissertation] or [thesis] in brackets.
University; Year
University Name; Year.
Real-World Example
Example Source
1
Larson M
Genetic markers for early detection of cardiovascular disease
dissertation
Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences
2021
Formatted Citation
1. Larson M. Genetic markers for early detection of cardiovascular disease. [dissertation]. Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences; 2021.
In-Text Citation
1
Superscript 1
Common Mistakes
Wrong:
1. Larson, M. (2021). Genetic Markers for Early Detection of Cardiovascular Disease [Doctoral Dissertation, Mayo Clinic Graduate School].
Right:
1. Larson M. Genetic markers for early detection of cardiovascular disease. [dissertation]. Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences; 2021.
Why: Use Last Initial format, sentence case for title, [dissertation] in brackets, full university name, and semicolon before year.
Wrong:
1) Larson M. Cardiovascular Genetic Markers. PhD thesis. Mayo. 2021.
Right:
1. Larson M. Genetic markers for early detection of cardiovascular disease. [dissertation]. Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences; 2021.
Why: Include full thesis title, use [dissertation] or [thesis] designation, and complete university name.
Wrong:
1. Larson, M., Unpublished doctoral dissertation, Mayo Clinic, December 2021.
Right:
1. Larson M. Genetic markers for early detection of cardiovascular disease. [dissertation]. Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences; 2021.
Why: Use sentence case, [dissertation] designation (not spelled out), and proper format with semicolon.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I distinguish Master's and Doctoral theses? ▼
Use [dissertation] for doctorates and [thesis] for master's degrees.
Should I include university location? ▼
Include it as part of the full university name if helpful for clarity.
Can I cite an unpublished thesis? ▼
Yes, same format. The citation itself indicates publication status.
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