How to cite a master's thesis in MLA
To cite a master's thesis in a reference entry in MLA style 9th edition include the following elements:
- Author(s) name: Give the last name and name as presented in the source (e. g. Watson, John). For two authors, reverse only the first name, followed by ‘and’ and the second name in normal order (e. g. Watson, John, and John Watson). For three or more authors, list the first name followed by et al. (e. g. Watson, John, et al.)
- Thesis title: Titles are italicized when independent. If part of a larger source add quotation marks and do not italize.
- Year of publication: Give the year of publication as presented in the source.
- University: Give the name of the institution.
- Degree: Type of degree.
Here is the basic format for a reference list entry of a master's thesis in MLA style 9th edition:
. Thesis title. Year of publication. University, Degree.
Take a look at our works cited examples that demonstrate the MLA style guidelines in action:
Examples
A psychology master's thesis with one author
. Personality, Passion, Self-esteem and Psychological Well-being among Junior Elite Athletes in Norway. 2011. U of Tromsø, Master's Thesis.
A master's thesis with one author
. A Comparison of Water Main Failure Prediction Models in San Luis Obispo, CA. 2019. Cal Poly, Master's Thesis.
This citation style guide is based on the MLA Handbook (9th edition).