GUIDELINE FOR WRITING GRADUATE THESIS

AND PHD DISSERTATION

(FOR THE COLLEGE OF LAW AND GOVERNANCE)

HAWASSA UNIVERSITY

HAWASSA
February, 2022

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2022

 MEMBERS OF THE TASK FORCE

1. Dr. Asfaw Gnefato (Asst. Prof) Chairperson and College Postgraduate Program
Coordinator, College of Law and Governance
2. Shemeles Ashagire (Asst. Prof) Member and Postgraduate Program Coordinator,
School of Law
3. Dr. S.Sivakumar (Asso Prof) Secretary and Postgraduate Program Coordinator,
School of Governance and Development Studies

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 ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

APA American Psychological Association

CPGC College Post Graduate Coordinator
DCES Department of Civic and Ethical Studies
D.Ed Doctor of Education
FGDs Focus Group Discussions
HU Hawassa University
KIIs Key Informant Interviews
LLM Master of Laws
M.A Master of Arts
OSCOLA Oxford University Standard for Citation of Legal Authorities
PG Postgraduate
PhD Doctor of Philosophy
SGaDS School of Governance and Development Studies
SGC School Graduate Committee
SL School of Law
SPGC School Post Graduate Coordinator

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

NO. CONTENTS PAGE

Acronyms and Abbreviations 3
Table of Contents 4
1 PART ONE: GENERAL INTRODUCTION 7
1.1 About the College of Law and Governance 7
1.2 About the Guideline 8
2 PART TWO: GROUND RULES FOR THE PREPARATION OF 10
M.A/LLM THESIS AND PHD DISSERTATION WORK
2.1 Language for preparation thesis/ dissertation 10
2.2 Paper Specification 10
2.3 Page Margins and Fonts 11
2.3.1 Fonts 11
2.3.2 Page Margins 11
2.4 Letter Cases of Major and Sub- Headings 11
2.4.1 Letter cases of major headings 11
2.4.2 Letter cases of first sub-headings 12
2.4.3 Letter cases of second sub-headings 12
2.4.4 Letter cases of third sub-headings 12
2.5 Paragraph, Spacing, Indentation and Page numbering 13
2.5.1 Paragraph 13
2.5.2 Spacing and Indentation 14
2.5.3 Page numbering 14
2.6 Illustrations 14
2.7 Quotations and footnotes 16
2.8 Writing style 16
2.9 Introduction ( Optional for LLM/M.A and obligatory for PhD Programs) 18
2.10 Editing and Proofreading 18
2.10.1 Some tips for effective editing and proofreading 18
2.11 Punctuation 19
2.12 Format 21
2.13 Plagiarism 21
2.14 Paraphrasing 23
2.15 Role and Responsibilities of Major advisors/Supervisors, Co-advisors/ 23
Supervisors and Students

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 2.15.1 The Major advisors/Supervisors and Co-advisors/ Supervisors 23
Role and Responsibilities
2.15.2 Roles and Responsibilities of Students 25
3 PART THREE: COMPONENTS OF THE PROPOSAL OF 28
M.A THESIS AND PHD DISSERTATION

3.1 Research Concept Note 28

3.2 Writing the Research Proposal 28

3.2.1 Recommended Format for Writing M.A Thesis Proposal 29
3.2.2 Brief Presentation For Each Chapter of Research Proposal 30
4 PART FOUR: COMPONENTS OF GRADUATE M.A THESIS 38
AND PHD DISSERTATION

4.1 For the School of Governance and Development Studies and the 38
Department of Civic and Ethical Studies
4.1.1 Preliminary Components of M.A Thesis and PhD Dissertation 38
4.1.1.1 Template for the preparation of M.A Thesis and PhD 38
Dissertation

4.1.2 Main Body of M.A Thesis/ PhD Dissertation 47

4.1.2.1 Template for the preparation of M.A Thesis and PhD 47
Dissertation
4.2 Specific Guidelines for PhD Program 70
4.3 In-text Citations, References and Appendices 71
4.3.1 In-text citations 71
4.3.1.1. APA citation basics 71
4.3.1.2 Types of citations 72
4.3.1.3 In-Text Citations: Author/Authors 74
4.3.2 Reference List 77
4.3.2.1 Reference List: Books 77
4.3.2.2 Reference List: Date 80
4.3.2.3 Reference List: Secondary/Indirect Sources 82
4.3.2.4 Reference List: journals and Periodicals 82
4.3.2.5 Reference List: Other Print Sources 84
4.3.2.6 Reference List: Electronic Sources (Web Publications) 87
4.3.2.7 Reference List: Personal Communication 91
4.3.3 Appendices 91

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5 PART FIVE: RECOMMENDED FORMAT FOR WRITING LLM 93
THESIS PROPOSAL
5.1 Research Concept Paper 93
5.2 Formal Research Proposal 93
6 PART SIX: COMPONENTS OF GRADUATE THESIS FOR LLM 95
PROGRAM
6.1 Preliminary Components of LLM Thesis 95
6.1.1 Template for LLM Thesis Preparation 95
6.2 The Main Body of The LLM Thesis 102
6.2.1 Template for the Preparation of the Main Body of LLM Thesis 102
6.3 Footnotes, References and Appendices 111
6.3.1 Footnotes 111
6.3.2 References 111
6.3.3 Appendices 111
REFERENCES 113
APPENDICES 114
Appendix- I: Advisors‘ Approval Sheet 114
Appendix-II: Examiner‘s Approval Sheet 115
Appendix-III: Acronyms and Abbreviations 116
Appendix-IV: Table of Contents (Sample for MA and PHD Program) 117
Appendix-V: Table of Contents (Sample for LLM Program) 120
Appendix-VI: List of Tables 122
Appendix-VII: List of Figures 123
Appendix-VIII: Supervision Contract Agreement between Student and 123
Advisor/ Supervisor

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 PART ONE

1. GENERAL INTRODUCTION

1.1 About the College of Law and Governance

Hawassa University is located in Hawassa city, the capital of Sidama National Regional
State, Ethiopia, which aspires to be one of the ten best higher learning and research
institutions in East Africa in graduate studies and to be center of excellence in teaching-
learning, research activities, and community services with the highest possible quality.
Currently, the university has been recognized as one of the top-ranking research universities
in Ethiopia. It is a conglomerate of nine colleges and two institutes. The College of law and
governance is one of the nine colleges and two institutes of the university.

The College of Law and Governance (CLG) has been established and started its operation in
2011 based on the structural reform of the university. The College comprises the School of
Governance and Development Studies (GaDS), the School of Law, and the Department of
Civics and Ethical Studies.

Initially, the School of Governance and Development Studies (GaDS) was launched in
September 2006 with the aim of producing skilled and qualified human power in Governance
and Development Studies. Currently, the GaDS school comprises five master‘s program
(M.A) specializations, namely: Development Management, Governance and Development,
Peace and Conflict Studies, International Relations and Diplomacy, Public Management and
Policy Development. The school of Law was established in 2002, following the decision of
the Ministry of Education to expand higher education program. It has been offering three
Masters‘ programs with the specializations of Commercial Law, Environment and Land Law
and Criminal Law. The Department of Civic and Ethical Studies was launched in 2021. It has
been offering one summer master program known as M.A, in Civic and Ethical Studies and
one Doctorate of Education degree Program in Civic and Ethical Education.

Having said this in mind, the following section 1.2 presents about the purpose and intention of the
guideline what it is intended to do and achieve.

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 1.2 About the Guideline

Everything is easy when you know how! The skill of scientific writing is no exception.
To be a good writer, all you need to do is learn and then follow a few simple rules.
However, it can be difficult to get a good grasp on the rules if experience of your
learning is a protracted process of trial and error. There is nothing more discouraging
than handing a document that has taken hours to write to a coworker who takes a few
minutes to cover it in red pen and expects you to find this a rewarding learning
exercise (Jennifer Peat et al., 2002).

In this sense, the purpose of writing a thesis or dissertation is to make original research done
by the student accessible to others. It is important, then, to ensure that the thesis or
dissertation as submitted for examination reflects well on the quality of the student, the
college and the university.

Accordingly, the overall purpose of the guideline is to provide a holistic perspective for M.A
and PhD researchers to pursue their researches in an efficient manner. It also tries to fulfill
the gap in the 2020 HUSGS guideline by explicating each and every components of the
research given in the curriculums of the College of Law and Governance. Moreover, it is
aimed to supplement information to the HUSGS guideline 2020 in order to help our
candidates during their thesis or dissertation writing and reporting.

Furthermore, the guideline is to maintain the academic quality of the postgraduate programs
of the college to produce good quality LLM/ M.A thesis and PhD dissertation so as to meet
the required standard. The purpose of this guideline is also to establish uniform postgraduate
research work procedures in relation to the nature of each school or department under the
CLG. In line with this idea, these procedures are expected to be implemented through all
master and PhD students, advisors/ supervisors, school/ department leaders as well as college
leaders. In terms of the content scope, this guideline is only delaminated itself on how to
write and report PhD dissertation and master thesis. It is the responsibility of both the student
and the advisor or supervisor to be familiar with all general regulations of the HUSGS
guideline 2020 vis-à-vis writing thesis or dissertation work.

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The postgraduate study research guideline contains six parts. Part One presents general
introduction about the College of Law and Governance (CLG) and about the guideline. The
second part provides various ground rules for the preparation of M.A/LLM thesis and PhD
dissertation work like language for preparation thesis/ dissertation; paper specification; page
margins and fonts; letter cases of major and sub-headings; paragraph, spacing, indentation
and page numbering; illustrations; quotations and footnotes; writing style; editing and
proofreading; punctuation; format; plagiarism; paraphrasing; and role and responsibilities of
major advisors/supervisors, co-advisors/ supervisors and students.

Moreover, Part Three describes components of the proposal of M.A thesis and PhD
dissertation together with research concept note and writing the research proposal while Part
Four presents components of graduate M.A thesis and PhD dissertation plus preliminary and
main body components of the thesis as well as in-text citation, reference and appendixes. Part
Five highlights recommended format for writing LLM thesis proposal with research concept
paper and formal writing research proposal. Finally, Part Six discusses components of
graduate thesis for LLM program including preliminary components and main body of the
LLM thesis along with footnotes, references and appendices.

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 PART TWO

2. GROUND RULES FOR THE PREPARATION OF M.A/LLM THESIS AND

PHD DISSERTATION WORK

Part One provides discussion on common rules for LLM, M.A and PhD students of the
School of Law, School of Governance and Development Studies and Department of Civic
and Ethical Studies. All postgraduate students under the college should strictly follow and
apply these rules while writing up their proposal and main body of the research work.
Furthermore, advisors/supervisors should give advice and follow-up their advisees in order to
follow and apply these rules properly while doing their research project. For the sake of
clarity, these rules are divided further into sub-sections as indicated below.

2.1 Language for preparation thesis/ dissertation

 The student should use USA English for preparation of his/her LLM/MA thesis/ PhD
dissertation, not UK English. For example, it is program and not programme; self-
actualization and not self-actualisation. Thus, students should set their dictionary to USA
English spelling.

2.2 Paper specification

 Number of pages/Page counts: the length of a dissertation and a thesis will vary
according to the particular study and/or discipline. The number of pages does not
determine the academic quality of the research. As a rough estimate the thesis in a
Master‘s degree about 25 000 - 45 000 words or 60-100 pages (excluding the references
and other appendixes) and a Doctoral dissertation about 40 000 - 100 000 words or 250-
350 pages (excluding the references and other appendixes).

NB: Students are strictly advised to follow the minimum and maximum page limits as
stated above. Failing to follow the instructions subsequently will lead to rejection of
submission.

 Color: White
 Size: 21 cm x 29.7cm (A4 format)

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 Weight: ≥ 80 gm

2.3 Page margins and fonts

2.3.1 Fonts

 Font size: 12 font size for text and 10 font size for footnotes and quotations are
recommended.
 Font type: Times New Roman.
 Font style: Regular
 Font color: Black
 Alignment: Justify
 Line spacing: Students of School of GaDS and Department of CES should use 1.5 line
spacing for the whole of their thesis or dissertation and single spacing for footnotes and
quotations. On the other hand, students of the School of Law should use double line
spacing for the body part of the thesis and single spacing for footnotes and quotations.
 Side: Front single
 Number of lines: ≤25per page

2.3.2 Page margins

 A left margin of ≥ 3.5 cm (1.50 inches)

 A right margin of ≥ 2.0cm (0.75 inch)
 A top margin of > 3.0 cm (1.25 inches) and
 A bottom margin of ≥ 2.5 cm (1 inch) of each are required unless special permission is
obtained.

2.4 Letter cases of major and sub-headings

2.4.1 Letter cases of major headings

 All major headings such as each of the title of preliminaries and chapters, references and
appendices must be written in heading level 1 (commands: ctrl+menu+1 or visit the style
in the formatting section).
 Chapter headings of the text are numbered with Arabic numerals starting from 1 for the
‗introduction‘ and ending with 5 or 6 in the ‗summary, conclusion and recommendations

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 chapter‘ as well as should not be underlined and punctuated or italicized. They must be
written in 14 font size with ‗Times New Roman.‘ Bold and centered. For example:

CHAPTER 3: ELECTORAL GENDER EQUALITY: A LEGAL

FRAMEWORK

2.4.2 Letter cases of first sub-headings

 The first sub-headings of the text are numbered consecutively with fractions of the Arabic
numeral of their respective chapters (for example, 1.1., 1.2., etc. or 2.1., etc.) and must be
written in heading level 2 and should not run with text as well as should no under-lined
and punctuated or italicized. They must be written in bold upper case letters and aligned
to left. They must be also written in 12 font size with ‗Times New Roman.‘ Consider the
following example:

3.1 NATIONAL LEGAL FRAMEWORK

2.4.3 Letter cases of second sub-headings

 The entire second level sub–headings are numbered consecutively with fractions of the
Arabic numeral of their respective sub-headings (for example, 1.1.1., 1.1.2., etc. for
chapter one, or 2.1.1., 2.1.2., etc. for chapter two).
 These sub-headings must be written in bold lower case letters (except the first letter of the
first word and proper nouns should be capitalized) and aligned to left as well as should
not run with text and should no under-lined and punctuated or italicized. They must be
written in 12 font size with ‗Times New Roman‘.
 They must be written in heading level 3. For example:

3.1.1 Between confusions: Ethiopia’s electoral gender quota

2.4.4 Letter cases of third sub-headings

 The third sub-headings of the text are numbered consecutively with fractions of the
Arabic numeral of their respective chapters (For example, 1.1.1.1, 1.1.1.2., etc. for
chapter one under secondary sub-headings or 2.1.1.1, 2.1.1.2., etc. for chapter two under
secondary sub-headings, etc.).

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 These third sub-headings must be written in bold title case letters (that is, only the first
letter of the headings written in upper case letters with italics including the number),
aligned to left and should not run with text as well as should not underlined and
punctuated. They must be written in 12 font size with ‗Times New Roman.‘
 They must be written in heading level 4. For example:

3.1.1.1 The role of electoral observers

 NB: Then, titles next to third sub-headings should be written either in (a) (b) (c) etc. or (i)
(ii) (iii) etc. or bullets and they must be written in bold title case letters (that is, only the
first letter of all major words of the headings written in upper case letters with italics) and
aligned to left as well as they must be written in 12 font size with ‗Times New Roman.‘
 NB: It is important to remain consistent throughout your dissertation/thesis in the way in
which you present headings and sub-headings. Keep the use of letter or Roman numeral
or bullet points to a minimum, but if you use them, use the same bullet or letter or Roman
numeral lists throughout.

2.5 Paragraph, Spacing, Indentation and Page numbering

2.5.1 Paragraph

 Each paragraph has one central thought which is indicated by the 1st sentence of that
paragraph. Also, a paragraph should not have one sentence only. Moreover, there is a
need of logical flow from paragraph to paragraph. Thus, the same thought should not be
repeated at a different section.
 Funnel– starting from broader and move on to detail, for example, the problem in the
world, in Africa, in Ethiopia, in your context.
 You should also consider conjunctions that link paragraphs. So, you have to link different
paragraphs under a heading by means of conjunctions that can indicate similarity or
difference to the preceding paragraph.
 The following are some conjunctions that you use for Similarity: Moreover, in
addition, similar to the above, in accordance with the above, accordingly, etc.
 In contrast to the above, use the following conjunctions for Difference: However, even
though, in spite of, but, etc.

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 End paragraphs under a heading with linking sentence to the next section, for example,
―In the next section …will be explained‖. End chapters with a linking sentence to next
chapter.

2.5.2 Spacing and Indentation

 The spacing between the lines in the text is 1.5 and between two paragraphs is always 1.5
line spacing.
 A free line space is required both between the paragraphs above and below the
subheadings or sub-division headings in the text. A free line spacing of 1.5 is also
required between a table and a table caption and between a figure and a figure caption.
 Indenting the first line of a paragraph as a substitute for leaving one free line spacing

between two paragraphs is not acceptable.

2.5.3 Page numbering

 Each page in a thesis/dissertation must be identified by a distinct number for ease of

reference.
 The use of two different series of page numbering is recommended.
 In the first series, material preceding the first page of the thesis text such as declaration,
acknowledgement, dedication, biographic sketch, list of abbreviations and acronyms,
table of contents, list of international, regional and national laws (only for Law students),
lists of tables, lists of figures, lists of plates and abstract are numbered using lowercase
Roman numerals (i), (ii), (iii), (iv), etc., centered at the bottom of each page. However,
the title page is not numbered in this case. However, the next page that appears
immediately to the title page is numbered ii.
 In the second series, Arabic numerals (1, 2, 3, etc.) are used from the first page of the
introduction of chapter one and continued till the end of the Appendix section and all
pages are numbered and centered at the bottom of each page.
 Percentages, unusual fractions, decimal figures, sample sizes and ages are usually
expressed as numbers.
 If a sentence commences with a number, that number is usually written as a word.

2.6 Illustrations

 Illustrations in the text include tables and figures.

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 Figures represent diagrams, graphs, photographs (plates), scanned images and other non-
text material whether in black or white or color should be legible, arranged neatly and
effectively, and must always be referred to the text.
 Tables and figures should be numbered, titled and clearly presented. Each table or figure
number should begin with the chapter number.
 For instance, a table should have heading above table. Numbered from 1.1 (for Chapter
1), 2.1 (for chapter 2), etc. and provide the source for each table below it. In text, refer to
table number (for instance, you say Table 4.7) when you explain table. Use standard table
for presentation. Refer the example as given hereunder.

Table 4.7: Current practice of Farmers Training Centers in maize production

Current Status of FTC Frequency Percent
Functional 80 58.0
Semi-functional 44 31.9
Non- Functional 10 7.2
I do not know 4 2.9
Total 138 100
Source: Field Survey, 2020

 A figure should have heading below figure. Numbered from 1.1 (for Chapter 1), etc. and
provide first the figure number and title and next to it the source of figure below heading.
In text, indicate the figure that you explain by referring to figure number (for example,
you say Figure 4.2) when you explain the figure. Look at the following sample of figure
for reference.

Figure 4:1: Occupation of the household heads in the study area

Source: Field survey, 2020

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 15

 Never let a table or figure stand for itself. You must discuss the table or figure in your
text. Only include tables that are mentioned and discussed in the text. Moreover, tables
should follow from the section or paragraph that discusses about the issue represented in
it.
 If the table is based on data other than your own, provide the source of the table or the
data at the bottom of the table.
 Tables, figures, diagrams or graphs must be on one page and should not flow over from
one page to another. If too big to fit in on one page, use smaller font size until 10 font but
do not make it impossible to read. Try to avoid reflecting too much information in one
table, figure, diagram or graph.

2.7 Quotations and footnotes

 Beware of too many or long quotations. Use direct quotations when it best states the
point.
 If you use the author‘s exact words, enclose them in double quotation marks, or indent
passages of more than four lines. Use single inverted commas for quotation within longer
quotation.
 In most cases, use your own words to paraphrase or summarize the idea you want to
discuss, emphasizing the points relevant to your argument.
 For footnotes and quotations may be in single spacing 10 font size.

2.8 Writing style

 The text must be clear. Good grammar and thoughtful writing will make the thesis/
dissertation easier to read. Scientific writing has to be formal.
 Short, simple phrases and words are often better than long ones.
 One important stylistic choice is between the active voice and passive voice. Use active
voice since it is simpler, and it makes clear what you did and what was done by others
than the passive voice.
 On the other hand, the passive voice makes it easier to write ungrammatical or awkward
sentences. If you use the passive voice, be especially wary of dangling participles.
 Use the third person singular (that is, the researcher …..) in your thesis or dissertation
work, not plural, when reporting work that you did yourself. Avoid use of first person

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 pronouns. Instead of saying ―I will……‖, ―I observed……..‖, I discussed……‖, say
something like ―The researcher will……‖, ―The researcher observed……..‖, the research
discussed……‖ or ―the study reveals….‖ and the like.
 Sentences should proceed in the same way that they have started (singular or plural).
Please check that you keep verb tenses consistent. If you start off using the past tense
(had, went, saw), check that you have not switched to the present tense (has, goes, sees)
in the same piece of writing.
 In your thesis/ dissertation, use past tense when reporting on your study, for example:
Access to the site was negotiated with the residents‘ council….
 In your literature review, use present tense when talking about a given author‘s work. For
example, David (2017) argues that the notion counseling encompasses far more than
informing a patient about the testing procedure.

 Hint: When you read over your final draft ask yourself

1. Have all my sentences got verbs in them?

2. Do all my sentences make complete sense? Are there any which sound incomplete? What
do I need to add to fix them up?
3. Have I used a good variety of sentence lengths?
4. Have I used a good variety of sentence structures?
5. Have I tried to vary my sentence openings?
6. Do any sentences need pruning or dividing into two?
7. Have I got rid of all ambiguity and/ or vagueness in my expression?
8. Have I got rid of any unnecessary repetition?
9. Do my paragraphs:
9.1 Have a clear topic sentence (usually the first sentence) which states the main idea of
that paragraph?
9.2 Have between 3 and 6 more sentences which develop the topic sentence?
9.3 Follow logically on the previous paragraph?
9.4 Smoothly link to the next paragraph?
 Breaking a word on 2 lines: Not allowed
 Corrections with fluid: Not allowed
 Overwriting: Not allowed
 Crossing out words: Not allowed

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 Typing machine: Computer
 Printing quality: Laser or better quality
 Copies: High quality photocopy.

2.9 Introduction ( Optional for LLM/M.A and obligatory for PhD Programs)

 Each chapter should start with an introduction.

 The aim of the introduction is to indicate what topics will be addressed in that specific
chapter.
 The introduction can also start with a brief reference to what was covered in the previous
chapter and then move on to the new chapter.

2.10 EDITING AND PROOFREADING

 You must edit and proofread your own work before sending it to your advisors (Major
and Co-Advisor) or supervisors for comments.
 An editor or your supervisors cannot do this for you. At most, they will point out your
mistakes and concentrate on substantive issues and an editor will check additional
language and flow issues for you.
 Careful editing and proofreading your document means that you:
 Revise sentences for correctness and clarity (first reading)
 Weed out repetition (second reading)
 Check your sources against your list of sources (third reading)
 Look for spelling mistakes (fourth reading).
 Editing and proofreading are not a 1-minute job. In fact, it should take you at least 1-2
hours to edit and proofread 10 pages of your work. If it takes you any shorter to do this,
you are doing it wrong! Even fruitful writers take this much time to do a proper job.
 Test yourself – if you cannot do this, you may have serious writing problems and need
urgent help. Accept that it is hard to see errors in your own work.

2.10.1 Some tips for effective editing and proofreading

 Try to give yourself a reasonable break between the time you complete your final version
of the draft and the time you sit down to edit. Approaching your writing with a clear head
and having at least two hours to edit will ensure that you do a methodical, attentive job.

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 Ask someone else to read your work or read it out aloud for someone else. Concentrate on
finding sentences that are vague, sections in your writing that are not understandable and
any errors.
 Read through your work several times. See the list above.
 Set the spell-checker on your computer to USA English and use it carefully. Do not have
six different spellings for the same word in your document – it shows that you really did
not bother to read through your work prior to submitting it.
 Do not use jargon words just for the sake of it. Shorter words are often just as good, or
better. More important, do not use big words (or any words) incorrectly; if unsure, check
in the dictionary or use a different word.
 Do not begin sentences with a numeric, for example: not begin with ―3 blind mice‖, but
you begin ―Three blind mice.‖
 Do not begin sentences with antecedent clauses, for example by saying at the start of a
new paragraph: Thus, therefore, this, etc.,
 Editing is not just about finding and correcting errors. During editing, you must improve
and refine your sentences, making them smooth, interesting, and clear.
 You may have to use an English expert for editing the thesis / dissertation at the end.

2.11 Punctuation

 Use capital letters only:

 When beginning a new sentence

 In pseudonyms, people‘s names and titles and for I (not for me though)
 In names of places (towns, cities, countries)
 In days of the week and months of the year
 In titles of books, organizations, journal
 For abbreviations such as GDP, NGO, ART, HIV and AIDS, etc.

 Use full-stops to:

 Mark the end of a sentence.

 Four (4) full stops to indicate pauses in a quotation, for example: ―After the
diagnosis, I felt numb....I could not believe it.‖
 If you use a reference in the text, the full-stop appears as follows. For example:

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 19

About two million children die each year from diseases that could be prevented by vaccines
(Raleigh, 2016).

 NB! The full-stop does not appear before the first bracket of the reference.

 Use commas to:

 Separate items in a list, for example: This practice is discriminatory, stigmatizing,

marginalizing and immoral.
 Separate words or phrases which are additional to the main clause of the sentence, for
example: The manager, who had been appointed recently, was in favor of evaluating the
workplace HIV/AIDS policy.
 Use comma between the author‘s name and the date in a reference in the text. For
example: About two million children die each year from diseases that could be prevented
by vaccines (Raleigh, 2016).
 In the list of sources, commas occur at particular places –see further in this style guide.

 Use semicolons to:

 Separate the list of authors in references in your text (not in the list of sources), for
example: Health policies that unintentionally have demographic consequences should be
excluded from the formal definition of a population policy. An example is where a policy
to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) leads to a reduction in acquired sterility
and ultimately to a change in the birth rate (Raleigh, 2016; Stycos, 2012).

 LOOK: Two references are given above – they are listed alphabetically (always) and a
semicolon separates them. Again, there is a comma between the author‘s surname and
the date of the publication. See also where the full stop occurs in the above example.

 Use colons to:

 Introduce a list, for example: The late stage of HIV, or the initial stage of AIDS, is
characterized by:
- Introduce direct speech, for example: Reacting to a question about the main
difficulties in dissertation supervision, Eric responded: ―It‘s actually very, very hard
for them [the students] in the first month to formulate a central research question.‖

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 20

  Note: In general, use round brackets ( ) to show that a word could be
either singular or plural. For example, please write the name(s) of your guest in the
section below. Make sure that when you start a bracket, you close it again. Use square
brackets [ ] to indicate that you have added something to the verbatim reported
quotation to make the meaning clear such as in the above example where the author
tries to make clear who the “them” in the quotation refers to.
 After the number of a Table or a Figure, for example, Table 1.1: Global estimates of
people living with HIV, 2006

 Use question and exclamation marks to:

 Only where they are appropriate. Keep their use to a minimum.

 Use apostrophes ONLY to show:

 Ownership or possession. The apostrophe is placed directly after the name of the owner
or owners, for example: Law and Governance College‘s Academic Council.
 In contractions, however do not use contractions (use ―cannot‖ instead of ―can‘t‖, ―does
not‖ instead of ―doesn‘t‖, etc.) except where quoting direct speech, for example: Reacting
to a question about the main difficulties in dissertation supervision, Eric responded: ―It‘s
actually very, very hard for them [the students] in the first month to formulate a central
research question.‖
 NB: Possessive pronouns such as yours, hers, its, ours, theirs do not have apostrophes.

2.12 Format

 Use MS Word (.doc) or MS Word (.docx) format for writing your thesis/dissertation.

2.13 Plagiarism

 Students should aware and ready to answer for the following questions regularly while
doing their thesis work. Why are my advisors or supervisors so concerned about
plagiarism? Answer to this question as follows:
 All knowledge is built from previous knowledge. As we read, study, perform
experiments, and gather perspectives, we are using other people‘s ideas. Building on
other people‘s ideas, we create our own.

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 21

  When you put your ideas on paper, your examiner wants to distinguish between the
building block ideas borrowed from other people and your own newly reasoned
perspectives or conclusions.
 You make these distinctions in a written paper by citing the sources for your building
block ideas. Giving clear credit for ideas matters in the professional community as well
as in school.
 When you cite a source, you are using an expert‘s ideas as proof or evidence of a new
idea that you are trying to communicate to the reader.
 This thesis guideline shows for the students‘ seriousness and consequence of
plagiarism and its sources from different forms. The following are some of example of
forms of plagiarism.
a. Copying: Copying word for word what another person has written and then submitting
another‘s work as your own without acknowledgement is plagiarism.
b. Paraphrasing without acknowledgement: Changing some of the words without
acknowledgment of the author is plagiarism.
c. Summarizing without acknowledgement: The use of someone's ideas as your own
without acknowledging the original author is plagiarism.
d. Repairing using portions of another person’s work: This is done when you borrow
bits of work from different authors and then link it together with your own words.
e. Taking material of hard disk: This refers to saving material on hard disk on computers
from which the information can be accessed by others and presented as their own work.
f. Borrowing computer disks: The lender is at risk because material can be accessed and
copied.

 To assist students, this guideline proposes the following strategies to avoid plagiarism.

 Acknowledge sources. Make sure that you know how to use references and acknowledge
sources.
 Write in your own words. If language or expression is a problem, seek assistance and
consciously work to improve your writing skills.
 Practice using your own words and interpretation.
 Neglecting to give proper credit for quoted materials to invite punitive action on the part of
its author or the publisher. At all times you should attribute direct quotations to their source;
acknowledge the ideas of others; avoid using the terms of others unless they are placed
within quotation marks; and acknowledge with the proper citation your debt to any source.

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 22

 Not too many ideas from one author.
 Give references to sources.
 Use plagiarism detection software.

2.14 Paraphrasing

 Paraphrasing means taking another person‘s ideas and putting those ideas in your own
words.
 Paraphrasing does NOT mean changing a word or to in someone else‘s sentence,
changing the sentence structure while maintaining the original words, or changing a few
words to synonyms.
 If you tempted to rearrange a sentence in any of these ways, you are writing too close to
the original. That‘s plagiarizing, not paraphrasing.
 Paraphrasing is a fine way to use another person‘s ideas to support your argument as long
as you attribute the material to the author and cite the source in the text at the end of the
sentence.

2.15 Role and Responsibilities of Major advisors/Supervisors, Co-

advisors/Supervisors and Students

2.15.1 The major advisors/supervisors and co-advisors’/supervisors’ role and

responsibilities

 Both the major and co-advisors/supervisors of a LLM or M.A or PhD program student are
supposed to advise and mentor the student with basic scientific approaches of a research
activities on his/her proposal and thesis development. Both advisors/supervisors should
provide timely feedback on the work submitted by the student.
 Both advisors/supervisors are equally responsible in evaluation and inspection of the
standard of the proposal and the thesis/dissertation produced by a student including the
contents, structures, organizations, citations, referencing, language use, plagiarism
matters, and the like. The proposal and thesis/dissertation that are produced by a student
should strictly apply the Hawassa University School of Graduate Study‘s proposal or
thesis format and structure as well as the format of this guideline.
 The advisor/supervisor should not rewrite parts of the candidate‘s work, but must merely
point out deficiencies to the candidate. The candidate should also be provided with
feedback on his or her technical presentation and methodology.

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 23

 Both advisors/supervisors are supposed to fix their own independent regular advising
schedule to communicate their advisees and announce it for the student. Likewise, they
are also expected to record the time of discussion as well as the key comments given to
the student in order to easily assess the progresses of the student in his/her research
activities. Whenever it is required by the school, research progresses of the student should
be reported by the advisors/supervisors on written statements. As well, inform the student
to submit progress report every semester after completion of the proposal.
 Immediately after the approval of the student‘s research title, the first initial
communication of the student should be started from the main advisor/supervisor to deal
with the theme of the proposal/thesis work. Then, based on the comments given by the
main advisor, the student directly communicates with his/her co-advisor/supervisor. Once
the initial communication started, the student could get the advisory service from both of
his/her advisors/supervisors concurrently side by side.
 A student who failed to communicate his/her both advisors/supervisors and either of the
two for more than four consecutive weeks (more than a month) should be reported to the
school by his/her respective advisors/supervisors that enables the school either to correct
the problem earlier or to take subsequent academic and administrative measures.
 The major advisor/supervisor is in charge of making major structural changes of the
proposal or thesis/ dissertation including on the title, content and methodological matters
whenever he/she finds it right to do so. However, the co-advisor/supervisor could make
such major changes only with discussion and consent of the major advisor.
 As long as there is no objection of the major advisor/supervisor, a co-advisor/ supervisor
could also make minor or major changes, modifications and improvements of the
proposal or the thesis/ dissertation with consultation and consent of the major advisor.
However, if controversies happen between the major advisor, supervisor and the co-
advisor/ supervisor on any changes of the proposal or thesis/ dissertation, the idea of the
major advisor/supervisor will be applicable.
 For the sack of smooth handling of the advising process, the main and co-
advisors/supervisors can share and divide specific advising roles and responsibilities
between themselves. This is not a mandatory action, but based on the willingness of both
advisors they can share roles.
 The final submission of the proposal or thesis/ dissertation for examination should be
approved by both the major and co-advisors/supervisors.

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 Both advisors/ supervisors should be agreed on the following points. In addition to this,
advisor/supervisor should make a supervision contract agreement between student (see
this agreement form on Appendix-XIII).
 agree with the student on deadlines and timetables;
 help the student to identify articles, books, conferences and guides him/her in the
compilation of thesis;
 give attention to linguistic errors, inadequately substantiated or poorly formulated
statements – improve these himself/herself;
 not rewrite parts of the student‘s work;
 encourage the student to submit the manuscript to the advisors/supervisors in its final
form before submission for examination; and
 NB: In addition to the above, refer Page 78 and 79 of 2020 SGS Guideline of HU.

2.15.2 Roles and Responsibilities of Students

 The student should:

 Read Hawassa University SGS guideline 2020 and CLG guideline for writing graduate
thesis and PhD dissertation and adhere to them;
 The student should strictly follow the proposal and thesis/dissertation format and
structure of SGS guideline 2020 and CLG proposal or thesis/dissertation format and
structure;
 Treat the advisor/supervisor with courtesy and fairness;
 Set and keep to timetables, deadlines and plan as well as submit the work regularly
because there will not have any excuse for delay submission ones the deadline passed;
 Be responsible to conduct independent research;
 Be responsible to trace sources;
 Undertake research with commitment;
 Keep records of all research findings and research meetings or discussions;
 Communicate with the advisors- specific needs/circumstances likely to affect study;
 Respond to feedback by/from advisors;
 Adhere to the principle of scientific honesty with respect to plagiarism and ethical
standards (interviews, etc.);
 Establish the relationship with relevant Personal Librarian at the Law and Governance
College Library and with other libraries that are relevant to your research topic;

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 The student must regularly communicate and discuss with both of his/her major and
co-advisors/supervisors based on consultation schedule arranged by the advisors;
 A student who failed to communicate his/her both advisors/supervisors or either of the
two for more than four consecutive weeks (more than a month) should be reported to
the school by his/her respective advisors/supervisors and that followed by academic
measures;
 The student should exhaustively incorporate the comments given by both advisors
with the time frame set by the advisors;
 The proposal or thesis/dissertation that is produced by the student must be free from
plagiarism that would result in serious academic penalties;
 Any proved misbehaving and making academic abuses between the major and co-
advisors/ supervisors would result in serious academic and administrative penalties of
the student.
 The advisors/supervisors are only responsible for commenting and indicating of the
problems on the proposal or thesis/ dissertation of the student. Then, incorporating the
comments and making corrections must be the duty of the student;
 Failure of the student to make regular communication with advisors/ supervisors as
well as negligence of incorporating advisors‘/ supervisors‘ comments on time could
result in delay of your submission and graduation too;
 Full length of the draft thesis/ dissertation should be submitted for both
advisors/supervisors at least twice before its final approval for submission. A draft
thesis/ dissertation that are only commented ones or a thesis that is submitted for
advisors‘/supervisors‘ comment on approaching the closing dates of the final thesis/
dissertation submission could not be approved to submit for examination. Therefore,
the draft thesis/dissertation should be submitted twice for both advisors/ supervisors
in advance based on the time frame set by the school;
 Equally, following completion of the proposal thesis/dissertation, you must submit
progress reports every semester for your advisors/ supervisors for their sign off. This
documentation is then forwarded to the School Postgraduate Coordinator to approve
your continued enrolment or approve your continued enrolment under certain
conditions (example, meeting certain milestones by certain dates) or discontinue your
application. You should know failure to complete or submit progress reports may lead
to termination of your enrolment.

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 26

 The scheduled final submission date of a thesis/ dissertation could not be extended
with petition of students. If a student failed to submit according to the stipulated
deadline, his/her defense would be extended to the next defense session based of
Hawassa university defense schedule; and
 The final proposal or thesis/ dissertation for submission must be approved and signed
by the main and co-advisors/ supervisors. However, if any sort of controversies
occurred at this juncture, the case will be resolved by school.
 In addition to the issues, student should make a supervision contract agreement
between advisor/supervisor (see this agreement form on Appendix-XIII).
 NB: In addition to the above, refer Page 78 and 79 of 2020 SGS Guideline of HU
 NB: Whenever it is found important, the college could make amendments of this
guideline.

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 27

 PART THREE

3. COMPONENTS OF THE PROPOSAL OF M.A THESIS AND PHD

DISSERTATION

3.1 Research Concept Note

 Many students reading this research guideline document will already have some idea of
what they want to study for their research. However, several sources of research ideas, for
students who are still searching for the right topic, include your personal experience,
reading in professional literature, discussion with professors or students, and current
issues in your field.
 As the first step to start their proposal, the students are asked to submit three workable,
non-repetitive titles of their own and thematic area which has been notified to the students
of the concerned department/ school to work for their M.A thesis and PhD dissertation.
 Of the three titles, one of the titles which the student has top priority to work on should be
accompanied with a concept note or research concept paper.
 This research concept paper provides a basis for further development of the proposal and
it does not exceed three pages which composed of general introduction, statement of the
problem, objectives of the study (general and specific) and propose an appropriate
methodology to conduct the inquire and submitted to their concerned schools/ department
in line with deadline notified to the students

3.2 Writing the Research Proposal

 The formal writing research proposal is begun after the SGC approved the research
concept or topic. Most research studies begin with a written proposal. Again, nearly all
proposals follow the same format.
 In fact, the formal research proposal is identical to the first three chapters of the final
paper except that it is written in future tense. For instance, you may say like ―the
researchers will secure the sample from ...‖, while in the final paper, it would be changed
into past tense like "the researchers secured the sample from ...‖

 The most commonly used style for writing research proposal and final research paper is
―APA‖ and the rules are described in the Publication Manual of the American

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 Psychological Association. Any library or bookstore will have it readily available. The
style guide contains hundreds of rules for grammar, layout, and syntax. This guideline
will cover the most important ones.

 Avoid the use of first person pronouns. Refer to yourself or the research team in third
person. Instead of saying ―I will ...‖ or ―We will ...‖ say something like ―The researcher
will ...‖ or ―The research team will ...‖
 A suggestion: Never present a draft (rough) copy of your proposal, thesis, dissertation,
or research paper...even if asked. A paper that looks like a draft, will interpreted as such,
and you can expect extensive and liberal modifications. Take the time to put your paper in
perfect APA format before showing it to anyone else. The payoff will be great since it
will then be perceived as a final paper, and there will be far fewer changes.

3.2.1 Recommended Format for Writing M.A Thesis Proposal

 Sequencing layout of proposal as follows:

1. Title page
2. Cover Page
3. Approval Sheet
4. Acronyms and Abbreviation (if any)
5. Table of Contents
6. Lists of Table (if any)
7. Lists of Figure (if any)

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION

1.1. Background of the Study

1.2. Statement of the Problem
1.3. Objectives of the study
1.3.1 General Objectives
1.3.2 Specific Objectives
1.4. Research Questions/Hypothesis
1.5. Conceptualization of terms (you may have the option either here or in the literature
review)
1.5. Significance of the Study

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 29

 1.6. Scope or Delimitations of the Study
1.7 Expected Limitations of the Study
1.8. Organization of the Study
1.9 Definitions of Key Terms or Operational Definitions

CHAPTER 2: REVIEW OF LITERATURE

CHAPTER 3: METHODOLOGY OF THE STUDY

3.1 Description of the Study Area

3.2 Research Design and Methods
3.3 Population of the Study
3.4 Sampling Procedure and Techniques
3.5 Types and Sources of Data
3.6 Tools and Techniques for Data Collection
3.7 Method of Data Analysis and Presentation
3.8 Ethical Considerations
Time Schedule
Budget Breakdown
References
Appendix
 NB: The maximum page for M.A Thesis proposal may range from 15 to 20 pages and for
PhD Dissertation may range from 25 to 30 pages
 NB: Aforementioned ground rules/ formats specified under Part Two are also applicable
for the preparation of the proposal as well.

3.2.2 Brief Presentation For Each Chapter of Research Proposal

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

 Chapter one begins with a few short introductory paragraphs (a couple of pages at most).
The primary goal of the introductory paragraphs is to catch the attention of the readers
and to get them ―turned on‖ about the subject. It sets the stage for the paper and puts your
topic in perspective. The introduction often contains dramatic and general statements

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 30

 about the need for the study. It uses dramatic illustrations or quotes to set the tone. When
writing the introduction, put yourself in your reader‘s position-would you continue
reading?

1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

 The statement of the problem is the focal point of your research. It is just one sentence
(with several paragraphs of elaboration).
 You are looking for something wrong.... or something that needs close attention....or the
existing methods that no longer seem to be working. Look at the following example of a
problem statement:

―The frequency of job layoffs is creating fear, anxiety, and a loss of productivity in middle
management workers.‖

 While the problem statement itself is just one sentence, it is always accompanied by
several paragraphs that elaborate on the problem. Present persuasive arguments why the
problem is important enough to study. Include the opinions of others (politicians,
futurists, other professionals).
 Explain how the problem relates to business, social or political trends by presenting data
that demonstrates the scope and depth of the problem. Try to give dramatic and concrete
illustrations of the problem. After writing this section, make sure you can easily identify
the single sentence that is the problem statement.

1.3 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

1.3.1 General objective of the study

 Most proposals have one overarching (main) objective that captures what you hope to
achieve through your study.

1.3.2 Specific objective of the study

 A set of objectives, which are more specific goals, supports that aim. Specific objectives
are often articulated in bullet points or Arabic numerals and are generally ‗to‘ statements:

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 31

 for example, to develop …; to identify …; to explore …; to measure …; to explain …; to
describe …; to compare …; to determine ….
 In the literature you are likely to come across ‗SMART‘ objectives – SMART being an
acronym for :
o Specific,
o Measurable,
o Achievable,
o Relevant/Results-focused/Realistic and
o Time-bound.
 The goal is to keep objectives from being vague or impractical; clearly articulating what
you want to achieve and your ability to work towards your goal.

1.4 RESEARCH QUESTIONS/HYPOTHESIS

 A well-articulated research question (or hypothesis) should define your investigation, set
boundaries, provide direction and act as a frame of reference for assessing your work.
 You should present research question that emanate from the specific objectives. These
questions should be translated into researchable hypotheses when the design requires the
use of such, particularly for quantitative research.

1.5 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

 The significance of the study is your argument that the study makes a significant
contribution to the field. In preparing the significance section in your thesis / dissertation.
 The significance of the study answers the questions:
 Why is your study important?
 To whom is it important?
 What benefit(s) will occur if your study is done?
 Will it revise, extend, or create new knowledge?
 Does it have theoretical and/or practical application? You must build a case for
the study‘s contribution to the field.
 Arguments for the research might include such things as the recommendations of prior
research, conflicting findings in other studies, new and improved methodologies, or
political, social, or psychological trends.

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 32

 1.6 SCOPE OF THE STUDY

 Delimitations are self-imposed boundaries set by the researcher on the purpose and scope
of the study. Studies have many variables that could be affected by circumstances of time,
location, populations, or environment (including both physical and social conditions).
 Does the sample include which places/ populations?
 Does the sample include urban, suburban, and rural schools or merely big city?
 Does the sample include ethnic, racial minorities and gender diversity consistent with the
population?
 Is the time period over a shorter or longer duration—one month? Six months? One year?
Five years?
 The point is that boundaries and qualifications are inherent in every study, which must be
noted in this section of master‘s thesis.
 Study should also describe the thematic and methodological scope of the study.

1.7 EXPECTED LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY

 Limitations of a study are not under the control of the researcher. Limitations are factors
that may have an effect on the interpretation of the findings or on the generalizability of
the results. Limitations may arise from the methodology, data, or method of analysis. For
example, the findings of a case study cannot be generalized to an entire population. You
need to state the limitations of your study to avoid misinterpretation of the findings. You
should also explore any strategies that will be used to minimize the impact of these
limitations on the results of your study.

1.8 CONCEPTUALIZATION OF TERMS

 Important terms and concepts should be defined that are related to your study. Give
source if the definition is not emanated from you.

1.9 ORGANIZATION OF THE STUDY

Each chapter of thesis contains three main sections: the introduction, where you tell your
readers what you are going to tell them; the body, where you tell them; and the summary,
where you tell them what you told them. However, because Chapter One is titled
―Introduction,‖ it does not begin with the heading ―Introduction‖ like the chapters of a thesis

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 33

that neither follow; nor does it end with the heading ―Summary.‖ Instead it begins with the
heading ―Background of the Study‖ and ends with the heading ―Organization of the Study.‖
This section of a dissertation describes the content found in subsequent chapters of the entire
thesis.

CHAPTER 2: REVIEW OF LITERATURE

 A formal ‗literature review‘ is a specific piece of argumentative writing that engages with
relevant scientific and academic research in order to create a space for your study.
 The role of the literature review is to inform readers of developments in the field while
establishing your own credibility as a ‗player‘ capable of adding to this body of
knowledge.
 It should include concepts, theories, empirical study and conceptual framework.
 Chapter two is a review of the literature because it shows what previous researchers have
discovered. It is usually quite long and primarily depends upon how much research has
previously been done in the area you are planning to investigate.
 If you are planning to explore a relatively new area, the literature review should cite
similar areas of study or studies that lead up to the current research.
 Never say that your area is so ―new‖ that no research exists. It is one of the key elements
that proposal readers look at when deciding whether or not to approve a proposal.

CHAPTER 3: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

 The methodology section describes your basic research plan. It usually begins with a few
short introductory paragraphs that restate purpose and research questions. The
phraseology should be identical to that used in Chapter one. Keep the wording of your
research questions consistent throughout the document.

3.1 DESCRIPTION OF THE STUDY AREA

 Describe all pertinent information about the study area that is related to your study,
including the study area map.

3.2 RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

3.2.1 Research Design

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 34

 The research design should be described. Many available references discuss research
design; therefore, that information will not be repeated here.
 For quantitative research, you may conduct research using a variety of research design
such as experimental design, quasi- experimental design, explanatory design, and
descriptive survey design. Thus, you should select your design and you must address the
basic assumptions of the selected design (s).
 For qualitative research, many different design options are available to a student who
works in the emergent, qualitative traditions. You should describe the design that will be
used, such as ethnography or phenomenology. This will communicate to the reader
whether the emphasis will be on cultural issues or individual, subjective experiences.
 You should present a rational for the design(s) of choice in terms of the research
problems identified.

3.2.2 Research Method/ Approach

 You should describe whether your study will use quantitative research method or
qualitative research method or mixed research method. You should also explain basic
assumptions of the selected research approach(s) or method(s).

3.3 POPULATION AND SAMPLING

 The basic research paradigm is:

1. Define the population
2. Draw a representative sample from the population
3. Do the research on the sample
4. Infer your results from the sample back to the population

 As you can see, it all begins with a precise definition of the population. The whole idea of
inferential research (using a sample to represent the entire population) depends upon an
accurate description of the population. When you have finished your research and you
make statements based on the results, who will they apply to?
 Usually, just one sentence is necessary to define the population. Examples are: ―The
population for this study is defined as all adult customers who make a purchase in our
stores during the sampling time frame‖, or ―...all home owners in the city of
Minneapolis‖, or ―...all potential consumers of our product‖.

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 35

3.4 SAMPLING PROCEDURE AND TECHNIQUES

 Include here the sampling procedures and techniques going to be used in the study.
 While the population can usually be defined by a single statement, the sampling
procedure needs to be described in extensive detail. There are numerous sampling
methods from which to choose. Describe in minute detail, how you will select the sample.
Use specific names, places, times, etc. Do not omit any details. This is extremely
important because the reader of the paper must decide if your sample will sufficiently
represent the population.
 Under this section you also determine sample size for household survey which is an
important to collect quantitative data if you opt to employ it. For qualitative data
collection, you will also describe the selection process for focus group discussion, Key
informant interviews, case studies and the like if you choice to apply them.

3.5 SOURCES OF DATA

 Both primary and secondary sources of data need to be written here.

3.6 TOOLS AND TECHNIQUES FOR DATA COLLECTION

 Write here the tools and techniques of soliciting data for the study. For instance data
collection tools that you will use for household survey, focus group discussion, key
informant interviews, observation, etc.

3.7 METHOD OF DATA ANALYSIS AND PRESENTATION

 This part should be written in detail for both qualitative and quantitative data (statistical
tools and forms of data result presentation for quantitative data as well as qualitative data
results analysis tools). Moreover, based on each specific objective, method of data
analysis should be written.

3.8 ETHICAL CONSIDERATION

 Student should describe major ethical principles that he or she will follow during his or
her field work from research participants.

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 36

Time Schedule

 Detailed Time plan for the entire thesis preparation period should be given. You should
give a proposed time that clearly depicts the approximate time in which each research
activity will be completed ( for example, instrument selected or developed, pilot test
conducted, etc.).

Budget Breakdown (Compulsory for sponsored students)

 Detailed budget breakdown be attached.

References

 List references in APA format alphabetically by author‘s last name.

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 37

 PART FOUR

4 COMPONENTS OF GRADUATE M.A THESIS AND PHD DISSERTATION

This part of the guideline is composed of three different sections. Section one covers the
components of M.A Thesis of school of Governance and Development Studies and the
Department of Civic and Ethical Studies. Section two deals about the specific guidelines for
PhD program whereas section three presents references, in-text citations and appendices.

4.1 FOR SCHOOL OF GOVERNANCE AND DEVELOPMENT STUDIES AND

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIC AND ETHICAL STUDIES

This section explicates both the preliminary components and the list of items to be included
in the main body of the M.A thesis and PhD dissertation.

4.1.1 PRELIMINARY COMPONENTS OF M.A THESIS AND PhD

DISSERTATION

4.1.1.1 Template for the preparation of M.A Thesis and PhD Dissertation

1. Title Page
2. Cover Page
3. Approval Sheet
4. Dedication
5. Declaration
6. Biographical Sketch of the Author
7. Acknowledgements
8. Glossary of Local Terms (if any)
9. Acronyms and Abbreviations
10. Table of Contents
11. Lists of Tables
12. Lists of Figures
13. Abstract

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 38

 It is important that you organise the preliminary materials in your thesis or dissertation in
a logical way. Although there are no hard and fast rules in this regard, the following
structure seems to fit most cases as shown in HUSGS Guideline of 2020.

1. TITLE PAGE

The first page of a thesis includes:

 Emblem/Logo of the University

 Name of the University, School of Graduate Studies, Name of the College, Name of the
School/ Department. Typed both center with 14 font size and all capital letters and bold.
 Approved thesis title with capital letters and typed in center with 14 font size and all
capital letters and bold. The following box show the sample of Title Page for M.A/ PhD
Students

WOMEN’S RIGHT TO INHERIT AND CONTROL OVER RURAL

LAND IN DEMBA GOFA DISTRICT, ETHIOPIA

MA THESIS /PHD DISSERTATION

TILAHUN MANYAYE

HAWASSA UNIVERSITY, HAWASSA, ETHIOPIA

OCTOBER, 2021

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 39

 As shown in the above sample, name of the degree with capital letters, for example, M.A
Thesis or PhD dissertation was written.
 Full name of the author with capital letters and typed in the central of the page
 Name and location of the University with capital letters
 Month and year of thesis submission with capital letters and typed 5 cm above the
bottom margin.

2. COVER PAGE

 Title of the thesis or dissertation length is commonly not longer than 15 words.
 It is the first page under the title page typed in all capital letters with 14 font size and
center justified on each line with the following information.
 Approved thesis title 5 cm below the top of the page
 Full name of the author typed 3 lines below the title
 Further 3 lines below it, the required degree title should be typed,
 Further 3 lines below it, the name of the degree specialization ………….. (Within
parentheses) should be typed.
 And this is followed by month and year of final copy of thesis submission should be
given at the bottom line. The following box shows the sample of Cover page for M.A/
PhD students.

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 40

 WOMEN’S RIGHT TO INHERIT AND CONTROL OVER RURAL
LANDS IN DEMBA GOFA DISTRICT, GOFA ZONE, ETHIOPIA

TILAHUN MANAYAYE

MAJOR ADVISOR: ------(PHD)

CO- ADVISOR: ----- (M.A/ PHD)

M.A THESIS/ PHD DISSERTATION SUBMITTED TO

THE DEPATMENT OF CIVICS AND ETHICAL EDUCATION,
COLLEGE OF LAW AND GOVERNANCE, SCHOOL OF
GRADUATE STUDIES, HAWASSA UNIVERSITY,
HAWASSA, ETHIOPIA

IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE

REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DEGREE OF MASTER OF ART IN CIVICS AND
ETHICAL STUDIES

OCTOBER, 2021

3. APPROVAL SHEET

 Each thesis /dissertation submitted for evaluation should contain two certificates.
 Approval sheet form of the major and/or Co-advisor (See Appendix-I of this
guideline and see Appendix- XV Advisors‘ Approval Sheet of HUSGS guideline
2020).
 Approval Sheet from the Board of Examiners (See Appendix-II of this guideline and
see Appendix- XVI Examiner‘s Approval Sheet-I of HUSGS guideline 2020). It
should be attached after defense.

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 41

4. DECLARATION

 This is the place where the candidate seriously declares that the thesis/dissertation
represents his/her own original work and is not submitted to any other institution
elsewhere for the award of any degree, diploma or certificate.
 The candidate also acknowledges here the various sources of information, ideas, views
and opinions and the like that he or she borrowed and used in the thesis/dissertation.
 See the following sample for how to write declaration.

DECLARATION
I hereby declare that ―write name of title here‖ is my original work and has not been
presented for a degree in any other university, and all sources of material used for this
thesis / dissertation have been duly acknowledged.
Name:___________________________________
Signature:_______________________

This M.A/ PhD thesis/dissertation title has been submitted for examination with my
approval as thesis advisor.

5. DEDICATION (Optional)

The dedication should be short and concise and ideally no more than one sentence long.
Please refer to the following sample dedication. Use one of the two or you can provide your
own dedication.

Sample One: I dedicate this thesis/dissertation to James Kemal, soil scientist, geographer,
teacher, scholar, man of arts and letters, philosopher, world citizen and a friend of all.

Or

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 42

Sample Two: I dedicate this thesis/dissertation manuscript to my father Ketema Worku and
my mother Alemaz Desta, for nursing me with affection and love and for their dedicated
partnership in the success of my life.

6. BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH (Optional for masters, but mandatory for PhD

followers)

 The candidate is not expected to write too long a biographic sketch. It would suffice
the need if he/she includes information on the following: a) date and place of birth b)
educational qualifications c) work experience and d) marital status.
 Thus, the biographical sketch should be condensed, very precise, and concise.

7. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

 It is good to thank those people who actually helped you technically in scientific matters
and also indirectly by providing things.
 Therefore, intellectual and practical assistance, advice, encouragement and sources of
monetary support should be acknowledged.
 It is appropriate to acknowledge the prior publication of any material included in the
thesis either in this section or in the introductory chapter of the thesis or dissertation.

8. ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

 Acronyms and abbreviations are listed in alphabetic order of the terms when written in
full form.
 Well known abbreviations such as FAO, WHO and HIV and S.I units do not need to be
listed.
 Each abbreviations and acronym should be written in full when it is first used and
followed by its abbreviation or acronym in in brackets. Thereafter only abbreviation is
used, for example, United States of America (USA) and thereafter USA.
 Also applicable to references, for instance, Department of Education (DoE) and thereafter
DoE.
 Furthermore, see a sample acronyms and abbreviation that is given in Appendix-III.

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 43

9. TABLE OF CONTENTS

 The following guidelines provided for SGaDS and DCES programs how to write table
of contents

 All headings or entries in the Table of Contents should correspond exactly in wording
(including fonts and cases) with the headings as they appear in the text.
 The relationships between main headings and sub-headings and between divisions and
sub-divisions must be shown by appropriate use of indentation and capitalization.
 The main headings of the Table of Contents are the components of the preliminaries and
the chapters of the text of the thesis/dissertation, reference and appendices must be
written in full capitals as they appear in the text.
 Except that of the preliminaries, the main headings in the thesis/dissertation must be
consecutively numbered with Arabic numerals and the sub-headings and divisions be
numbered with fractions of the number in the upper headings or divisions.
 The second and/or third line of a heading requiring more than one line must be indented
to the position of the initial letter of the first line.
 Line between main headings and between a main heading and its sub-divisions must be in
1.5 line space, whereas between sub-headings and between sub-divisions are single-
spaced.
 The sub-heading of the main heading and sub-division of the sub-heading are indented
with appropriate spaces into show that they are sub-headings and sub-divisions.
 The initial letters of the first word and of all nouns, pronouns, adjectives, adverbs, and
verbs of the sub-headings are capitalized, whereas in the sub-divisions only the first
letters of the first and of proper nouns are capitalized both in the text and in the table of
contents. The fifth order divisions and above may be ignored from entering into both in
the text and in the table of contents.
 No terminal punctuation is used for headings and their sub-divisions.
 The page number on which each of these begins is shown in the column at the right-hand
margin.
 While working on the draft thesis, students are required to use an automated table of
contents by using the menu bar; then reference; then table of contents; then table of
contents drop down button. See Appendix-V for the sample of table of contents.

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 44

10. LISTS OF TABLES

 It comes soon after the ‗table of contents‘.

 The list of tables is constituted of the captions of the tables included in the
thesis/dissertation.
 The major points to be observed in preparing the list of tables include:
 In the text, all Tables are numbered consecutively (with Arabic numerals) starting
with their chapters number. For instance, ‗Table 2.1‘ for the table one which appeared
first in chapter two of the thesis/dissertation, and the captions apart from being short
and descriptive, must appear on the top of the each table. Do for all tables under their
particular chapters.
 In the list of tables, the number of the table, the caption (or title) with all entries
corresponding exactly in wording (including fonts and cases) with that in the text and
the page number of the manuscript on which each table occurs are entered.
 Only the initial letters of the first word and of proper nouns are capitalized both in the
text and in the List of Tables.
 No terminal punctuation is used for the headings or after any title listed therein.
 The words table and page with their initial letters in capitals head their respective
columns, flush with the margin.
 A Sample List of Tables is shown in Appendix-VI.

11. LISTS OF FIGURES

 The list of figures or illustrations is the section that appears on a new page following the
List of Tables.
 This section is constituted of the captions of the figures like graphs, map, diagrams and
other illustrations that are included in the thesis/dissertation.
 The major points to be observed in preparing the List of Figures/Illustrations include:

 In the text, all Figures and Illustrations are numbered consecutively (with Arabic
numerals) starting with their chapters number. For instance, ‗Figure 3.1‘ for the figure
one which appeared first in chapter three of the thesis/dissertation, and the captions
apart from being short and descriptive, must appear on the bottom of each Figure. Do
for all figures under their particular chapters.

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 45

  In the list of figures or illustrations, the number of the figure, the caption (or title) with
all the entries corresponding exactly in wording (including fonts and cases) with that in
the text and the page number of the manuscript on which each figure occurs are entered.
 Only the initial letters of the first word and of proper noun are capitalized both in the
text and in the list of figures.
 No terminal punctuation is used for the headings or after any title listed therein.
 The words ‗Figure‘ and ‗page‘ with their initial letters in capitals head their respective
columns, flush from the margin.
 A sample list of figure is given in Appendix-VII.

12. ABSTRACT

 The following guideline provided direction for SGaDS and DCES MA/ PhD
Students how to write their abstract.

 Usually you are expected to write a brief summary of the study.

 Use APA referencing style for preparing your abstract.
 The purpose of the abstract, which should not exceed 250 words for a Masters‘ thesis
or 350 words for a Doctoral dissertation, is to provide sufficient information to allow
potential readers to decide on relevance of the thesis.
 The greatest space here must be devoted to the statement of the problem, overall
objective of the study, the research design, the main findings, conclusion, and
recommendations.
 Abstract should contain appropriate key words and/or phrases (not more than five
words) designed to assist electronic searches.
 It should be written in one paragraph on one page with single line as well as italicize
the paragraph.

 Hint!!!

 Abstract is best written towards the end, but not at the very last minute because you will
probably need several drafts.
 An abstract must be self-contained/independent.
 Usually it does not contain references. When a reference is necessary indicate in the text.
 Check the word limit.

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 46

 Remember: even though it appears at the beginning, an abstract is not an introduction. It
is a mirror image of your thesis.

4.1.2 MAIN BODY OF M.A THESIS/ PhD DISSERTATION

4.1.2.1 Template for the Preparation of M.A Thesis and PhD Dissertation

Each thesis or dissertation is unique but all share several common elements. The following
general outline is based on HUSGS, 2020.

1. Introduction
2. Literature review
3. Research methodology
4. Results and Discussion (for PhD student, Journal Style can also be accepted)
5. Summary, Conclusion and Recommendations
6. References
7. Appendices

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION

 In this chapter, you should lead your reader to a clear understanding of the broad
objectives of your study. This chapter must capture the imagination of the reader, and
should be easy to read. The importance of your study should be apparent in this chapter.
 An introduction is what the Doctoral dissertation or master thesis is all about. It
introduces the research project to the reader and is judged on how far back in the past you
start. The introduction is supposed to enable someone with no knowledge of your field to
read and understand your thesis.
 Usually this chapter has the following subheadings: background of the study, statement of
the problem, objectives- general and specific, research questions or hypothesis,
significance of the study, scope or delimitations of the study, limitations of the study,
definitions of key terms or operational definitions, organization of the study.

1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

 This section presents a general background to the topical area. It is a general, broad
statement that provides an overview of the area involving your study.

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 47

 Guiding questions for this area are:
 Why this area is an important one?
 What has been the historical development of the topic?
 Are there different points of view about the topic?
 Have there been significant investigations, studies, or reports concerning the topical
area?
 What is the current status of the area of your interest?
 What are the major outstanding concerns in the general area?

1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

 As the background has given a broad, general background to the study, problem statement
of the study should be very specific in nature. Thus, state the problem(s) as simply as you
can.
 The statement of the problem might begin with the words, ―The problem of the study
is....‖ or ―This study will address the problem of...‖
 Guiding questions for this area are:
 Does the problem pose significance for your field of study?
 Will the problem present data that explains previously unexplained facts? (Research
Gap)
 Will the problem serve as a point of departure for the study?
 Try to step back mentally and take a broader view of the problem. How does it fit into
the broader world of your discipline?

1.3 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

 This section provides you with an opportunity to tell the reader the overall and specific
objectives of your study.
 Each objective should be with action verbs or outcomes based verbs at the beginning of
the statement
 The most preferred action verbs, for example, “identify”, “define”, “relate”,
“describe”, “review”, “compare”, “contrast”, “analyze”, “assess”.
 However, verbs such as “understand”, “explore”, “investigate”, “examine” and
“discuss” are poor verbs as they describe processes, not outcomes - You can discuss

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 48

 something endlessly without ever having to make recommendations, draw conclusions or
offer a result – At least they cannot be the end result of your research.

1.3.1 General objective

 State the general objective of research briefly, it should be concise and to the point,
ensuring that the suggested aim will lead to answerable questions/feasibility of the study.
 For example: The main aim of this research is to assess (an action verb) perceptions and
experiences of students, teachers, other school staff, governors and parents about school
violence.

1.3.2 Specific objectives of the study

o As in the proposal, describe specific objectives of the study.

o Check here;
 Is the objective specific and clearly stated?
 Is the objective directly related to the review of the literature?
 The following are example of specific objectives:

1. To identify perceptions of students, teachers, other school staff, governors and parents
about school violence?
2. To assess experiences of students, teachers, other school staff, governors and parents
about school violence?
3. To compare these perceptions against the formal recording of the school of ‗incidents‘ of
violence.

1.4 RESEARCH QUESTIONS/ HYPOTHESES

 As in the proposal, present the guiding research questions or hypotheses.

 Research Proposition and Hypothesis
 Propositions or hypotheses can be defined after the objectives of the study.
 Propositions are statements concerned with the relationships among concepts. For
example, a proposition that: treating employees better will make them more loyal
employees.

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 49

 A hypothesis is a formal statement explaining some outcome. – a guess or tentative
statement which needs to be proved or disproved. For example, the salespersons that are
highest in product knowledge will be the most productive.
 Hypotheses can be regarded as propositions that are empirically testable. Hypothesis
testing is the scientific method of theory building.
 Research Questions
 Questions asked should correspond and be consistent with the above specific objectives.
For example:
1. What are the perceptions of students, teachers, other school staff, governors and parents
about school violence?
2. What are the experiences of students, teachers, other school staff, governors and parents
about school violence?
3. Do such perceptions match the formal recording of the school of ‗incidents‘ of violence?

NB: A student of MA or PhD is strictly advised to use either research questions or hypothesis
for his/her research. Not allowed to use both at the same time in the research. If he/she
choices hypothesis, he/she has to check whether his/her hypotheses are testable and clearly
stated or not.

1.5 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

 This sub-heading, explain the significance of and justification for conducting the study.
 It provides answers as to what the study will contribute. It should specifically state the
value of the study. Why is this study important?
 The significance is addressed by discussing how the study adds to the theoretical body of
knowledge in the field of your study.
 PhD students also must explain how their research makes an original contribution to the
body of knowledge in their discipline. For instance, PhD/D.Ed candidates of Civic and
Ethical education should address the significance of the study for Civic and Ethical
Education and their related field of study.

1.6 SCOPE OF THE STUDY

 In this section, you define the boundaries in the problem area within which the study will
be done, and the population or situation to which the findings may apply.

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 50

 Scope can be geographical and/or to what extent the data analysis will be done. For
instance, you may say that this research is conducted in Hawassa. Provide reasons, why
Hawassa?
 This might therefore imply that the results did not apply to other parts of Ethiopia because
the research environments are not the same.
 Just an example, in terms of data analysis, you may say that only descriptive research and
no explanatory research employed.
 You can delimitate your scope of study in terms of content/ theoretical scope by giving
focus on themes in your research questions or specific objectives. Furthermore, you can
delimitate your study in terms of Time span. For instance, this study covers the year
between this and this.

1.7 LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY

 These are constraints to the study that are beyond your control but that may influence the
data.
 Limitations may emerge at any time during your study. List them and describe actions
you should take to solve them.
 For instance, lack of baseline data/literature; respondents may misunderstand the purpose
of the study and thus they may be unwilling or fear or suspect to provide necessary
information; conduct the field study during some seasons, for instance, when farmers are
highly occupied by farm activities; obtaining permission letters from government officials
in the study area before moving to field research work.

1.8 DEFINITIONS OF KEY TERMS

 You should be sure that important terms and concepts used in the study are adequately
analyzed and defined. If the definition is not yours, give source for the definition.

1.9 ORGANIZATION OF THE STUDY

 The organization of the study briefly describes what can be expected in each chapter.

CHAPTER 2: REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURES

 General Comments

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 51

 You should begin each chapter on new page.
 Typically Chapter 2 is a review of related literature that is relevant to your thesis or
dissertation.
 The survey of literature must be relevant to the problem of the study. You must indicate
what has already been done in the field of your study.
 All relevant studies must be critically analysed and evaluated. Studies that have been
well done, yielding reliable results, should be identified, and ought to serve as a point of
departure for future studies.
 Make sure that the sources are not out-dated. Focus on recent sources – preferably not
older than 5 years into the past.
 At least 90% of literature review should be completed before you design or select your
research instrument. Strictly, use the APA or American Psychological Association system
of reference style for M.A./PhD
 In addition to the above ideas, the candidates should realize the following main points
while they review literatures.
 The literature review chapter should be well structured, may be according to the specific
objectives of the research.
 Literature should be critically reviewed and discussed – indicating how it relates to the
research topic – it must be relevant.
 A gap in the literature should be clearly indicated and discussed. This is the gap that will
be bridged by the suggested research - forming the contribution to the existing body of
knowledge.
 It is important that you organize the review of related literature in your thesis/dissertation
in a logical way. Although there are no hard and fast rules in this regard, the following
structure seems to fit most cases.

2.1 INTRODUCTION

 The introduction can also start with a brief reference to what was covered in the previous
chapter and then move on to the new chapter.
 It presents the purpose of the chapter and also introduces topics that will be included in
the chapter.

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 52

2.2 CONCEPTUAL LITERATURE REVIEW

 You should make an attempt here to clarify various concepts from various secondary data
sources and give source for each.
 You may give sub- headings under it.

2.3 THEORETICAL LITERATURE REVIEW

• You should explain and review various theoretical perspectives or theories related to the
topic and show the position of your study on which approach or theory it is based on.
• You also review historical evidence, experiences, and key policy issues in relation to your
topic.
 NB: You may give sub headings under it.

2.4 EMPIRICAL LITERATURE REVIEW

 Under this sub heading, you should be focused on various researches results from various
scholars in Ethiopia and other countries.
 While you review empirical literatures you should give focus on your specific objectives
or key research questions. You may give subheadings. Consider the following examples:
2.4.1 Empirical literature review on specific objectives 1(write the title)
2.4.2 Empirical literature review on specific objectives 2 (write the title)
2.4.3…..

 NB: At the end of this sub heading, you should clearly write the gaps you identified when
you reviewed empirical literature reviews.

2.5 CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK OF THE STUDY (Optional, it is more preferred

for quantitative approach and mixed approach)

 Under this section, you show dependent and independent variables of your study.
 You should draw a diagram and indicate using arrow how both dependent and
independent variables interact each other or how independent variables or factors
influence dependent variable. Give title and source for the diagram.
 Moreover, you have to explain this interaction with at least in one or two paragraph(s).

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 53

 TIPS FOR CANDIDATES WHILE THEY ARE REVIEWING LITERATURE

 When reviewing the literature, the following are some of the questions you need to
answer:

 What are the different paradigms that define the phenomenon? Is it a new concept? or
old?
 Why is this topic important? What is its theoretical history? Where did it come from?
Who are the seminal scholars? (Who else thinks it is important)?
 What is its current theoretical stage? Well developed? Still fuzzy/unclear?
 How has it been studied? Methodological weaknesses/strengths? What can be adapted to
my own study?
 What did other empirical studies find? Are the results of research consistent?
Inconsistent? Where do they converge? Where do they diverge (perhaps more research is
needed). Or agreement or disagreement? In what areas/dimensions?

 SOME TIPS HOW WILL YOU KNOW YOUR LITERATURE REVIEW IS

ADEQUATE?

 Here is a checklist of what to look for:

 Has all the relevant literature been reviewed? Including other dissertations/theses.
 All literature is current as well as capturing key seminal contributions
 I feel confident I have not missed any important work - which tells ‗the story‘ of the
topic
 It is critical and evaluative, not just descriptive. It describes who has worked on this
topic before and how it was studied
 It clarifies the state of constructs and variables related to the topic
 It summarizes methodological challenges associated with my topic
 It clearly states the gaps in the research on the topic
 It clearly supports the rationale for my proposed contribution and its significance
 It is interesting to read, well synthesized and well-written
 It could stand alone as a publication
 Exhaustive literature review
 All relevant studies have been critically analyzed and evaluated
 Shortcomings of published studies have been indicated. For example, weaknesses in
research design biased sampling, validity and reliability of measuring instruments,

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 54

 unsuitable statistical analysis, etc.
 Be careful about plagiarism – make sure that you have acknowledged all your
sources and you have paraphrased by your own. Do not quote or cite without
acknowledging the author. Only give direct quotes when it is absolutely necessary.
The references for the direct quotes must be given with page numbers.

CHAPTER 3: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

 General Comments

Materials and methods/research methodology provide a statement of the sources of data and
the methods and procedures of data collection and analysis. This chapter describes the
methodology that will be followed to address the research questions, hypotheses or
propositions or that are listed in the first chapter.

3.1 INTRODUCTION

 The introduction can start with a brief reference to what is covered in the previous chapter
and then move on to the new chapter.
 It also presents the purpose of the chapter and also indicates topics that will be addressed
in the chapter.

3.2 DESCRIPTION OF THE STUDY AREA

 You should discuss the following points under this section:

 Describe the location of your study area ( where it is found, its distance from Capital city
of the country and region, its boundries, howmany rural and city administrative kebeles it
has, astronomical location (latitudes and longitudes location) and provide map of the
study area (placing map under thesis chapter is not compulsory rather it depends upon the
nature of the study (give source and title for the map).
 Describe total population including female and male population of the study area (Write
the source with year).
 Describe total land area, agro-climatic zones, rainfall, climate, temperature, soil type and
other physical features of the study area (depending upon the nature of the study).

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 Mention livelihood of the study area (principal sources of food and income of the study
area) and major livestock species in the area.
 Add other important features (physical, economic, social, cultural…) that describe the
study area.

3.3 RESEARCH PARADIGMS

 This section is optional for MA thesis but mandatory for PhD dissertation.
 The purpose of presenting paradigms here is to examine the views and positions of
different research paradigms.
 This also gives an opportunity to the researcher to locate where his/her current research
study fits with which paradigm.
 Just in a paragraph or two you need to show your understanding of the following three
research paradigms in order to demonstrate your understanding of paradigm wars.
 Under this section candidates demonstrate, for example, what are research paradigm and
its importance?
 Also, under this section candidates show, for instance, the position of the Constructivism
(Interpretivist) or Positivism/Post positivism or Pragmatic / Critical Theory/
Emancipatory paradigm in terms of:

 Ontology (view of reality): What is ontology? What do researchers within each

paradigm have to say about ontology?

 Epistemology (theory of knowledge): What is the nature of knowledge? What do

researchers within each paradigm have to say about epistemology?

 Methodology (view of mode of inquiry): that is, whether quantitative or qualitative or

mixed mode of inquiry. Which methodology do researchers within each paradigm use
in order to obtain the desired knowledge and understanding?

 Once you have demonstrated your knowledge of research paradigm, the second step is to
position yourself as a researcher, discuss whether you are situated your study within
Constructivism (Interpretivist) or Positivism/Post Positivism or Pragmatic /Critical
Theory/ Emancipatory) paradigm by discussing reasons why you think you belong there.

3.4 RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHOD

3.4.1 Research design

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 The research design is the structure of any scientific work. It gives direction and
systematizes the research. Under this section, candidates allow the reader to know the
type of design you use and tell to the readers why you choose this research design.
 For instance, cross-sectional descriptive research design, exploratory research design,
quasi-experimental design, field experiment design, a case study, grounded theory,
phenomenological or ethnography …
 You should consider that the research design that you choose depend on different factors
such as time, money, feasibility, ethics, etc.

3.4.2 Research methods/ approaches

 Specify, what research approach do you intend to use?

 The following are main approaches to a research problem:
 Quantitative approach
 Qualitative approach
 Mixed approach
 Candidates should discuss the research method either qualitative, quantitative or mixed
that they use or why it is suitable for their research.

 Quantitative approach

 When the candidate opt this approach, they should answer for the question ―Why
quantitative approach?‖
 Give a description of the approach technique you adopted (survey, experiment, etc.) and
why that particular technique is appropriate for your study. Discuss the advantages and
disadvantages of the technique, as they pertain to your research.
 Quantitative research normally uses scientific experiments or surveys to collect primary
data.

 Qualitative approach

 Select among various qualitative research designs, for example, case study, ethnography,
phenomenological study, grounded theory study, or content analysis. Specify suitability
of the aforementioned research designs for your study?
 Describe techniques of qualitative methods to collect data. For instance, among others
like focus group discussions, key informant interviews, individual case studies, and

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 among different types of observation. Among these, select the most appropriate
technique for your study and provide reason why it is appropriate for your research?

 Mixed approach

 Why mixed approach is suitable for your research?

3.5 SOURCES OF DATA

3.5.1 Quantitative data

 Quantitative approach normally uses scientific experiments (Science laboratory and field
experiment) or research surveys to collect primary data.
 Quantitative approach also uses already collected (and processed) data called secondary
data sources either collected Statistics Ethiopia, National Bank, universities, other
organizations, individual researchers, etc.

3.5.2 Qualitative data

 Qualitative approach normally uses focus group discussions, key informant

interviews, individual case studies, and observation (direct observation, or participant
observation, or ethnography observation) to collect primary data.

 Qualitative approach also uses already collected (and processed) data called secondary
data sources either collected Statistics Ethiopia, National Bank, universities, other
organizations, individual researchers, etc.

3.6 TARGET POPULATION, SAMPLING AND SAMPLE

3.6.1 Target population and unit of analysis

 Target population

You should clearly define the target population (study population) of your study and identify
the unit of analysis.

 Unit of analysis

 Unit of analysis is the entity, who or whom is being analyzed to collect data.
 It describes the level at which the research is performed and which objects are researched.

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 People or individuals are common units of analysis. Other units of analysis are:
organizations, divisions, departments, etc. At a ‗lower‘ level, management decisions,
transactions or contracts can also be units of analysis. Thus, the candidate clear shows his
or her units of analysis in his/her research text.

3.6.2 Sampling design and technique

 Describe and discuss the sampling design and technique that you use as well as why it is
appropriate.
 Both M.A. and PhD students decide sampling designs they apply for the study. Do they
employ probability sampling or non-probability sampling or both? Why it is appropriate
for your research?
 Among probability sampling design which sampling technique you should apply?
Simple random sampling or systematic sampling or stratified sampling or clustered
samplings specify? Why it is appropriate for your research?
 Among non-probability sampling design which sampling technique you should use for
sample selection? Snowball /convenience sampling or quota sampling or judgment (or
purposive) sampling specify? Why it is appropriate for your research?

3.6.3 Sample size determination

Carefully identify the sample and describe in detail the manner in which it was chosen.
Naturally, if you are including all possible subjects, you are dealing with a population. In this
case, you describe the characteristics of the population.

3.6.3.1 Sample size determination of household survey ( Optional, it is preferred for

quantitative research)

 You should describe the sampling method or technique that you use to select sample
districts, sub-districts, sub- cities, kebeles, etc. and on the basis of what requirements do
you select it or them.
 Show your target population (sample frame/ study population) of the study for survey
respondents and give source.
 Point out sample size determination formula that you use to determine total sample size
and describe each symbol in the formula as well as give source for the formula.

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  You should also mention that the sampling technique that you apply to distribute the
total sample size for each sample kebeles, for instance and show the distribution in
table by giving title and source for it.
 Following this, from your sample frame (list or document of target population from
each sample kebele), show the sample technique that you employ to select an individual
sample respondent.

3.6.3.2 Selection of Focus Group Discussion (FGD) participants(Optional, it is

preferred for qualitative research and mixed research)

 If you opt focus group discussions (FGDs) for collecting qualitative data, you discuss or
answer the following questions:

 What was the population from which the sample was drawn for focus group
discussions?
 Why did you choose these participants?
 How did you choose them? Here you should mention the criteria and sampling
technique that you apply to choose them.
 How many FGDs do you organize and each FGD with how many participants or
members. Some scholars suggest one FGD contains 6-12 members and some others
suggest 5-15 members. Depending upon the time and budget you have, decide only
one single number among them.

3.6.3.3 Selection of Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) Participants(Optional, it is

preferred for qualitative research or and mixed research )

 If you opt key informant interviews (KIIs) for collecting qualitative data, you will discuss
or answer the following questions:

 What was the population from which the sample was drawn for key informant
interviews?
 Why did you choose these participants?
 How did you choose them? Here you should mention the criteria and sampling
technique that you apply to choose them.

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  How many KIIs participants do you have? Some scholars suggest that KIIs participants
may contain 15-35 participants. Depending upon the time and budget you have, decide
only one single number among them.
 You also describe under this section, from which sectors or government layers or non-
government organizations you select participants for KIIs. If possible, show the
distribution in table by giving source and title for it.

 NB: Do for an individual case study as describe above under section 3.6.3.1 and 3.6.3.2.
Also, if you did a case study then discuss the case site.
 NB: Summarize the whole sample size determination process for all of participants of the
study in one table (optional).

3.7 DATA COLLECTION INSTRUMENTS

 You discuss data collection instruments that you use to measure the variables or
explanation of case in your study. There should be a separate subsection for each
instrument. Additionally, provide a rationale for the selection of your instruments.
 Information should be provided regarding the development of the instrument, its use,
data regarding its validity and reliability, data regarding how the instrument is
administered and scored and anything else that give insight into its appropriateness.
 In addition, provide a rationale for the selection of your instruments. Generally, a copy
of the instrument should be included in the appendix (for the final thesis).

3.7.1 Survey Questionnaires (Optional, it is preferred for quantitative data tool)

 You should decide for whom you use this quantitative data tool.
 Survey questionnaires are used to collect quantitative data. They may be structured
with closed ended questions or semi-structured (with both closed and open ended
questions).
 You describe on which topics you prepared these questionnaires. Refer to your specific
objectives, research questions or scope of the study.
 With which language you prepare your questionnaires and then translate to which
language and who translates it.
 You should clarify how many data collectors you hire and you should also arrange
training to them on which topics and for how many hours.

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 You should also indicate whether you should workout pre-testing of your
questionnaires before collecting actual data from the field or not. Some scholars
suggest that workout pre-testing by taking 10% of total sample size on individuals who
are out of sample kebeles or areas.

3.7.2 Semi- Structured Interview Schedule (Optional, it is preferred for qualitative

data tool)

 You should decide for whom you use this qualitative data tool.
 They may be unstructured with a few open ended questions or survey questionnaires
with a few open ended questions that involves collecting the same information from all
interviewees.
 You describe on which topics you prepared these questionnaires. Refer to your specific
objectives, research questions or scope of the study.
 How do you administer your interview? Either with face-to-face interview, mail
(postal) interview, phone interview, video or Skype interview. Specify, and describe its
purpose.

3.7.3 Focus Group Discussion Guidelines (Optional, it is preferred for qualitative data
tool)

 You should decide for whom you use this qualitative data tool.
 They may be unstructured with a few open ended questions or survey questionnaires
with a few open ended questions that involves collecting the same information from all
members.
 You describe on which topics you prepared these questionnaires. Refer to your specific
objectives, research questions or scope of the study.
 How do you administer your discussion? How does moderator of FGDs and what is
the role of researcher in this case? So that you should form guideline how do you
conduct discussion?

3.7.4 Observation Checklists (Optional, it is preferred for qualitative data tool)

 You should specify among different types of observation (direct observation or

participant observation or ethnography observation or both, which one you use. Why?
 What objects do you observe? Specify?

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  You should prepare checklist for observation and include it in the appendix.
 You also mention instruments that you used for observation, for example, tape-
recorder, camera, video, field note, pen, etc.

3.8 DATA ANALYSIS AND PRESENTATION

For data analysis, you must give a full account of the analysis you have done. If you have
used statistical techniques/procedures, you must justify the use of each technique/procedure.
Elementary statistical techniques/procedures need not to be described in detail. Briefly
mention the technique/procedure and give an appropriate reference for it. More information
should be given if the technique/procedure is not well known. You should explain the
methods of data analysis that you employ for each specific objective.

3.8.1 Data analysis for quantitative data

 Statistical methods are used to analyze quantitative data. We apply both descriptive and
inferential statistics. Moreover, you should mention for which specific objective you used
descriptive and inferential statistic.
 The candidate should mention the statistical application with its software versions in
detail for example SPSS or STATA or other applications) that he or she has used to
analyze quantitative data.
 Descriptive analysis involves summarizing the data using measures of central tendencies
(i.e., arithmetic mean, median and mode), measures of variation or dispersion (e.g.,
standard deviation), frequencies and percentages.
 For inferential statistics, you use statistical techniques such as t-test, correlation analysis,
regression analysis, Chi-square, factor analysis, ANOVA, etc.
 You present the results of the quantitative data in frequency tables, and figures or
diagrams (for example, histogram, bar-diagrams, graphs and pie charts).
 If you applied regression analysis or econometric model, you clearly mentioned the
model, for instance, logistic regression model. Here, what do you do?
 Write the model and describe the specification of the model.
 Show the dependent and independent variables that you included in the model.
 Give description for dependent variable.
 As well as, give description for each independent variable or explanatory variable

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 like variable code ( example, AGEHH), description (example, age of the household
head in years), the nature of variable (dummy or continuous), unit of measurement
(number, hectare, birr … for continuous variable and if 1 male and 0 otherwise, if 1
literate and 0 otherwise… for dummy variable) and expected outcome (+/−) .
 Run variance inflation factors (VIF) to test the presence of multicollinearity problem
among continuous variables. Only include among continuous variables that indicate
the weak multicollinearity problems, otherwise the remaining are excluded from the
model.
 Equally, use contingence coefficient ( ) to check the occurrence of multicollinearity
problems among discrete or dummy variables. Only include among discrete or
dummy variables that show the weak multicollinearity, otherwise the remaining are
excluded from the model.
 Test on the possible existence of heteroscedastcity to correct hetroscedasticity
problem robust standard errors as well as the coefficient of determination (R2) and
correlation coefficients (R) show that the degree on association between independent
variables and dependent variable
 Check all these variables are they present in conceptual framework of the study under
chapter 2 and variables that you use under results and discussion chapter. They should
go with together to maintain uniformity among them.

3.8.2 Data analysis for qualitative data

 Interview questions and responses are typically tape-recorded and then transcribed
verbatim before analysis is begun. Qualitative researchers often categorize data into
patterns as the primary basis for organizing and reporting results.
 Due to the large amount of data that can be generated in qualitative research, a data
reduction process must be used to aid analysis. You should be organizing the data,
identifying emerging themes, categories, and patterns; and testing hypotheses against the
data.
 In qualitative analysis, you may use a narrative descriptions of data collected through
interviews, observations, and case records.
 With regard to qualitative analysis if you use any of the software applications like
NViVO /ATLAS ti software and other software you must mention with its software
versions.

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 In qualitative analysis, you may also use content analysis to recurrent themes, and
typologies and illustrations of particular issues. Furthermore, for qualitative data analysis,
you may use.

 Attention

 Candidates of thesis masters and PhD dissertations should not do the following dilemmas
after data analysis.
 A candidate leaving analysed data as it is – leaving examiners/readers to do it
themselves?
 Lack of critical engagement with the findings – no weaving of existing literature
through the findings;
 No link between theoretical frameworks/literature review and research findings;
 Findings presented and discussed on only one method of data collection; and
 The duty is on supervisors to ensure that they read and examine students‘ work before
sending it out to examiners – if not; this is an embarrassment to the outside world.

3.9 VALIDITY AND RELIABILITY

 Validity and reliability are important aspects of the research methodology to get a better
explanation of the world.
 Validity determines whether the measuring instrument truly measures what it was
intended to measure or how truthful the research results are. To measure the validity of
results, you should consider the theory and the measuring instrument used..
 The extent to which results are consistent over time and an accurate representation of the
total population under study is referred to as reliability.
 If the results can be reproduced under a similar methodology – then the instrument is
reliable.
 Reliability can be measured by the Cronbach Alpha.
 Triangulation (using more than one sources of data or data collection method) helps to
improve the validity and reliability of the results.

3.10 Ethical CONSIDERATIONS

 Ethically, confidentiality concerns must be observed. For example, we use only number
codes to link the respondent to a questionnaire and storing the name –to– code linkage

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 information separately from the questionnaire, and refuse to give the names of
respondents to anyone outside the research project.
 Individual respondents should never be identified in reporting survey findings;
completely anonymous summaries, for example, in terms of tables and charts should be
given. Respondents must be asked for their consent to participate in a survey, and their
privacy and rights must be observed.
 In general, briefly discuss ethical consideration relevant to your study in relation to
issues of privacy, consent, permission to conduct research, etc.

3.11 CONCLUSION

 You should end with a conclusion this chapter and at least a sentence linking it to the
following chapter. For instance, this chapter presented ….The next chapter provides
discusses on ……
 Remember: Before you start a new chapter, introduce this chapter at the end of the last
chapter – with at least a sentence. This helps to integrate the chapters and make sure that
the thesis is coherent.

CHAPTER 4: RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

 General direction for the candidates, what they are going to fulfill under this
chapter

The results and discussion are very often combined in theses. This is sensible because of the
length of a thesis. This chapter demands candidates to work two principal tasks; namely,
results and discussion. You need to make sure that your study contributes to existing research
and is not just a note-making exercise which is always a boring exercise. All the facts stated
and quoted from the other sources must be referred and acknowledged. Avoid plagiarism
because it is illegal and unethical.

It is thus be sufficient to say that the contents of this chapter are the core matter of the entire
study of the thesis/dissertation as these are the student‘s contribution to knowledge. All other
portions of the manuscript are subordinate to what actually has been discovered and it is only
here that the findings of the present study are being disclosed.

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 FOR QUANTITATIVE AND MIXED RESEARCH

 In this chapter, the results/ findings of your study should be given first for questions
under each specific objective and followed by interpretation and discussion.
 In terms of quantitative research, provide tables and figures of results with some
statistical analysis, depending at the level of your analysis. Here you give evidence of
research findings, that is, numbers and your results must need interpretation and
discussion. What do they mean? How do they fit into the existing body of knowledge?
Are they consistent with current theories?
 Once analysis has been done per each question, look for the results that emerged from
your findings, discussing them at length and supporting them with theoretical frameworks
and literature review used under literature review chapter.
 When discussing findings of your quantitative data, you have to substantiate or
triangulate the findings with the quotes gathered from interviews and other qualitative
data collection instruments that you actually used as well as corroborating and weaving
them with existing literature and theoretical frameworks discussed earlier under chapter
Two. This demonstrates that different parts of your paper do not operate in isolation.

 FOR QUALITATIVE RESEARCH

 For qualitative research, this chapter usually is organized by the themes or categories
uncovered in your research. For instance, if you have conducted focus groups or key
informant interviews it is often appropriate to provide a brief descriptive (for example,
demographic, socio-economic, etc…) profile of the participants first.
 In this research, candidates provide some significant extracts, for instance, from the
interviews and make sense of them in terms of the question asked.
 Discuss the research findings and corroborate them with existing literature. Discuss the
findings for each research method used and synthesise the findings about all the methods
used.
 The findings should be presented in a coordinated effort; for example, what were the
findings from the interviews? Did you get similar/related or different findings with other
methods of data collection? Are findings from the interviews collaborated by what
observation and documents suggest? Check if the different methods of data gathering
corroborate each other or not and explain this at length.

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 Direct quotation and paraphrasing of data from focus groups, or interviews, then are used
to support the generalizations made. In some cases, this analysis also includes information
from field notes or other interpretative data (for example, life history information, case
studies, observation).
 Moreover, this chapter also should address what your findings in both quantitative and
qualitative researches mean for Development Management, Governance and
Development Studies, Pubic Administration and Development Policy, International
Relation and Foreign Diplomacy, Peace and Conflict Studies, Civics and Ethical
Education, Commercial Law, Environment and Land Law and Criminal Law
professionals in the field being examined. In other words, what are the study‘s practical
implications? Doctoral students also should discuss the pedagogical implications of the
study. What does the study suggest, for instance, for civic and ethical education?
 The results and discussion could be divided into as many sub-headings and sub-divisions
depending on the nature of the study. It is impossible to give specific directions for
organizing the findings of all studies, because of the wide variety of topics investigated,
techniques employed and kind and volume of data and information collected. Although
there are no hard and fast rules in this regard, the following structure seems to fit most
cases.

4.1 INTRODUCTION

 Under this section, tell the reader(s) how you have organized the results of your study.
 Typically, you would organize them around your study‘s research questions or
hypotheses or specific objectives of the study.
 You also tell them, there should be an analysis of each section and tables/figures that are
included in the chapter.
 You also tell them, how many household survey questionnaires distributed for
respondents to collect quantitative data and among them how many returned back so that
show the responding rate.

4.2 CHARACTERISTICS OF THE SAMPLE OF THE STUDY

 Under this section, it is often appropriate to provide a brief descriptive (e.g.,

demographic, socio-economic, etc.) profile of the participants first including their
implication to your study.

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4.3 FINDINGS FOR RESEARCH QUESTION 1/ specific objective 1
4.4 FINDINGS FOR RESEARCH QUESTION 2/ specific objective 2
4.5 FINDINGS FOR RESEARCH QUESTION 3/ specific objective 3
4.6 FINDINGS FOR RESEARCH QUESTION 4/ specific objective 4
4.7 FINDINGS FOR RESEARCH QUESTION 5/ specific objective 5
4.8 FINDINGS FOR RESEARCH QUESTION 6/ specific objective 6

 NB: you can insert sub section, under each sub-section.

4.9 CONCLUSION

You should end with a conclusion this chapter and at least a sentence linking it to the
following chapter. For instance, this chapter presented ….The next chapter provides discusses
on ……

CHAPTER 5: SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

5.1 INTRODUCTION

 The introduction can start with a brief reference to what was covered in the previous
chapter and then move on to the new chapter.
 It also presents the purpose of the chapter and also indicates what topics will be addressed
in the chapter.

5.2 SUMMARY OF MAJOR FINDINGS

 This is an overview of the major findings of the study in line with each specific objective
of the study

5.3 CONCLUSION

 This is an area you draw conclusions from your findings. Number or bullet the
conclusions.
 The conclusions must relate directly to the findings. The key is to establish what the
results mean. How are they applied to the world?
 Be self-critical whether your results showed what you expected or not.
 Any survey has flaws in its method so it is always a good idea to show that you are

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 aware of these. If your study gave unexpected results explain the possible reasons for
why this happened and suggestions for refining the techniques and structure of your
study next time.
 As long as you have justified yourself and pointed out your own shortcomings then your
results will be relevant and you should receive a good result. In short, draw suitable and
justifiable conclusions based only on the results of a research study.

5.4 RECOMMENDATIONS

 The final stage of the research process is the researcher‘s recommendations based upon
the results and conclusions. Number or bullet the recommendations.
 Do not give recommendations that are not based on the study results or make
recommendations based on the results of a research study.
 You should indicate and justify the findings that need solution and suggest
recommendations how you have to solve them and determine who is or are going to
implement the recommendation.

5.5 FUTURE RESEARCH

 This is an area where you propose issues for future research in relation to your study by
raising the following questions:
 Does your work suggest any interesting further ways? Are there ways in which your
work could be improved by future researchers?

4.2 SPECIFIC GUIDELINES FOR PHD PROGRAM

 PhD students should also follow and apply all preliminary and main body components of
thesis and dissertation that are listed under section 3.1 of the Part Four. As well, you
should read, follow and apply all ground rules for the preparation of M.A. thesis and PhD
dissertation works that are mentioned under part Two. Furthermore, you strictly follow
and apply references style, in-text citations and appendices that are demonstrated under
section 4.3 of Part Four.
 Writing a PhD dissertation based on an independent PhD research project is one of
student‘s duty. In this case, a student must indicate proof that he/she can:
 do independent research,

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  make an original contribution to knowledge with research, and
 write a thesis documenting the research.
 As indicating in HUSGS Guideline of 2020 (Read from page 68 to 69), the PhD thesis is
to be independent scientific research at an international standard. The thesis shall meet
stringent scientific standards in terms of the formulation of the issues it addresses, its
precise use of terminology, its methodological, theoretical and empirical basis,
documentation and presentation. The thesis shall help develop new scientific knowledge
and be of a standard suitable for publication as part of the literature in its discipline. The
thesis can consist of a number of smaller publications. The candidate‘s contributions to
joint publications can be approved as part of the thesis.
 HU shall be listed as the main address in articles and other publications included in the
thesis. The thesis shall be published using the official HU title page design.
 The PhD thesis/dissertation shall be written in USA English. However, in circumstances
where the thesis is written in a local language (other than English), an executive summary
of the major findings must be enclosed in USA English.
 Normally, a PhD graduate is expected to publish three articles in peer reviewed reputable
journal (according to reputability guideline of HU) from the result of the thesis work.
However, no PhD candidate shall graduate without publishing at least one article in peer
reviewed journal. The journal reputability assessment criteria of HU is used for the
purpose of reputability evaluation (refer Journal Reputability Assessment Guideline of
HU).
 NB: PhD candidates should always refer HUSGS Guideline of 2020 regarding different
affairs of PhD.

4.3 IN-TEXT CITATIONS, REFERENCES AND APPENDICES

4.3.1 In-text citations

 Below are some general rules to follow when using in-text citations while writing up your
thesis or dissertations.

4.3.1.1 APA citation basics

 When using APA format, follow the author-date method of in-text citation. This means
that the author‘s last name and the year of publication for the source should appear in the
text, for example, (Jones, 1998).

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 Note that, in-text citations may NOT be indicated by bracketed numbers. If your in-text
citations do not follow the author-date method, please correct them prior to submission.
 If you are referring to an idea from another work but not directly quoting the material, or
making reference to an entire book, article, or other work, you only have to make
reference to the author and year of publication and not the page number in your in-text
citation.
 All sources that are cited in the text must appear in the reference list at the end of the
paper.

4.3.1.2 Types of citations

A. Integrated citation

 A work that is directly referenced within the text by the author‘s, or multiple authors‘,
name is called an integrated citation or author centered citation. In the author centered
citation/ integrated citation, only the year of publication is placed in parenthesis and a
comma is not required after the author's name, as in the following example.

The work of Jones (1998) has been used by many professors to show . . .

 When there is an integrated citation for a work with multiple authors, separate the authors
with the word ―and.‖ For example:

Jones and Collymore (2010) show in their previous work that . . .

 In an integrated citation that includes ―et al.‖ A work by Three to Five Authors, you
would write the citation as the following example:

Park et al. (2003) discuss the prospect of having more than eight signatures. . . .

 When writing an integrated citation for multiple citations, treat each citation as its own
integrated citation. You would then separate the citations by a comma and an ―and‖
between the last two citations as shown in the following example.

The authors of Dalglish (2013), Jones (1998), Jones and Collymore (2010), and Park
et al. (2003) discuss in their research . . .

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 B. Parenthetical Citation

 If the work is not directly referenced in the text but still needs to be cited, the citation will
be moved to the end of the sentence, and the author‘s name will be included along with
the publication year. In short, in the parenthetical citation, it is also called subject centered
citation, the author‘s last name followed by a comma, a space and the year of publication are
written in parenthesis usually at the end of the sentence, as in the following example.

However, in rural area, there is a gender persistent gap in landholding rights because;
various factors are affected women‘s land right in communities (FAO, 2002).

 Paraphrasing Materials

 When using information from one of your sources, but not directly quoting text from that
work, this is paraphrasing. When paraphrasing a sources work, you must cite their work
by listing their name and the year of publication where the information is used. See the
following example:

Although the APA style can seem difficult, it often is very easy to use once it has
been practiced (Jones, 1998).

 While a page number is not required for paraphrased material, it is often preferred since
this can help your readers find the exact source of the information. The page or range of
pages, where the information is found is identified by a ―p.‖ for a single page or ―pp.‖ for
multiple pages. For example:

Although the APA style can seem difficult, it often is very easy to use once it has
been practiced (Jones, 1998, pp. 24-32).

 When you are citing an electronic, online material, or a source that does not have a page
number, use the paragraph number where the information is found. The paragraph
number is indicated by ―para.‖An online source cited like the following example:

The APA style has shown a 25% increase in knowledge retention (Jones, 1998, para. 3).

 NB: Never use the page numbers of Web pages you print out, because different
computers can print out Web pages with different pagination.

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  Quotations

 If you are directly quoting from a work, you will need to include the author, year of
publication, and the page number for the reference (preceded by ―p.‖). Introduce the
quotation with a signal phrase that includes the author‘s last name followed by the date of
publication in parentheses, as in an integrated citation.

According to Jones (1998), ―Students often had difficulty using APA style, especially
when it was their first time‖ (p. 199).

 If the author is not named in a signal phrase, place the author‘s last name, the year of
publication, and the page number in parentheses after the quotation, as in a parenthetical
citation. See the following example:

She stated, ―Students often had difficulty using APA style‖ (Jones, 1998, p. 199), but
she did not offer an explanation as to why.

 The following section presents a more in-depth discussion of parenthetical and

integrated in-text citations.

4.3.1.3 In-Text Citations: Author/Authors

 APA style has a series of important rules on using author names as part of the author-date
system. In this section, we will go over the rules dealing primarily with author names and
publication dates.

A. Citing an Author or Authors

 A basic citation will always use the author-date system as shown in the above APA
Citation Basics section. The pages the information is found on can also be included. For
example: (Dalglish, 2013, pp. 47-49)

B. A Work by Two Authors

 Name both authors in the parentheses each time you cite the work. Use the word ―and‖
between the authors‘ names within an integrated citation, and use an ampersand (&) in a
parenthetical citation. For instance: (Dalglish & Rush, 2010)

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 C. A Work by Three to Five Authors

 List all the authors in parentheses the first time you cite the source. Include a serial
comma before the ampersand. For instance: (Barnes, Cornell, Sun, Henderson, & Harlow,
2015)
 In later citations, only use the first author‘s last name followed by ―et al.‖ (meaning ―and
others‖) in parentheses. Note that in ―et al.,‖ the ―et‖ should not be followed by a period.
For example: (Kernis et al., 2012)

D. Six or More Authors

 Use the first author‘s name followed by et al. for every citation, including the first. For
instance: (Gerrard et al., 2009)

E. Unknown Author

 If there is no author listed for the source, cite the source by its title in the signal phrase, or
use the first word or two in a parenthetical citation. Titles of books and reports are
italicized or underlined; titles of articles, chapters, and web pages are placed in quotation
marks. For example:
 A similar study was done of students learning to format research papers (―Using
APA,‖ 2001). Or
 In ―Using APA‖ (2001), students learned to format research papers.

F. Organization as an Author

 If the author is an organization or a government agency, write the organization‘s full

name in the signal phrase or in the parenthetical citation the first time you cite the source.
For example:
 The purpose of the style was to give clarity and simplicity to the writing (American
Psychological Association, 2000). Or
 According to the American Psychological Association (2000), . . .
 If the organization has a well-known abbreviation, include the abbreviation in brackets
the first time the source is cited and then use only the abbreviation in later citations. For
example:
 First citation: (Mothers Against Drunk Driving [MADD], 2000)
 Second citation: (MADD, 2000)

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 G. Two or More Works Cited at the Same Time

 When your parenthetical citation includes two or more works, order them the same way
they appear in the reference list, separated by a semi-colon. For example: (Berndt, 2012;
Harlow, 2011)
 If multiple works by the same author or authors are cited simultaneously, use commas
between the publication years, again, listing the sources in the same order that they appear
in the reference list. For example: (Berndt, 2012, 2014)

H. Authors with the Same Last Name

 To prevent confusion, use first initials when last names are the same. The first initial
should appear before the last name of the authors. For example: (G. Johnson, 2001; P.
Johnson, 1998)

I. Two or More Works by the Same Author in the Same Year

 If you have two sources by the same author in the same year, use lower-case letters (a, b,
c) with the year to order the entries in the reference list. Use the lower-case letters with
the year in the in-text citation. For instance:
 Research has shown (Allen, 2013a) that . . .
 It was later discovered that these signs were indicative of a great underlying cause
(Allen, 2013b).

J. Personal Communication

 For interviews, letters, e-mails, and other person-to-person communication, cite the
communicator‘s name, the fact that it was personal communication, and the date of the
communication (Month Date, Year). Do not include personal communication in the
reference list. For Instance:
 Many students have difficulty with the APA style initially (E. Robbins, personal
communication, January 4, 2001).
 A.P.Smith also claimed that many of her students had difficulties with APA style
(personal communication, November 3, 2002).

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 K. Citing Indirect Sources

 If you use a source that was cited in another source, name the original source (the source
that was cited) in your signal phrase. List the secondary source (the source that cited the
original source) in your reference list and cite the secondary source in parentheses. For
Example: Johnson argued that . . . (as cited in Smith, 2003, p. 102).

L. Unknown Date

 If no date is given, use the abbreviation ―n.d‖ (meaning ―no date‖) in the place of a
publication year. For Example:

 Another study of students and research decisions discovered that students succeeded
with tutoring (Sterling, n.d.).

4.3.2 Reference List

 The references usually follow the last chapter.

 You are not allowed to list any source under references if reference was not made to it in
the text so that all sources that are cited in the text must appear in the reference list at the
end of the paper
 A standard reference system, namely, the APA-system, should be used consistently under
the heading ―References‖ and the abbreviation et al. (for ―and others‖) is not used in the
reference list, regardless of the number of authors
 The references should be arranged strictly alphabetically.
 Each reference citation is made up of at least four parts: Author, Date, Title, and
Publication Place.
 The following is a step-by-step guide to building a reference citation using each of these
four parts.

4.3.2.1 Reference List: BOOKS

 Books fall into a few categories. Each kind requires referencing of its own.
There are seven major kinds of books:

(a) Single-author books,

(b) Multi-author books,

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 (c) Editions other than first,
(d) Edited volumes,
(e) Books without author or editor listed,
(f) Multi-volume works, and
(g) Multi-author articles in a multi-author volume.

a. Single -Author Books

 List the author‘s last name first, followed by the author‘s first name/ initials. (Year of
publication). Title of work in Italics, Location/place/city: Publisher. For example:

Alverez, A. (2010). Doing your research project: A guide for first-time researchers in
education and social science. Buckingham: Open University.

b. Two -Authors Books

 List authors by their last names and first name/ initials. Use an ampersand (&) instead of
―and,‖ and include a comma between them. (Year of publication). Title of work in Italics,
Location/place/city: Publisher. For example:

Natarajan, R., & Chaturvedi, R. (2008). Geology of the Indian Ocean. Hartford, CT:
University of Hartford Press.

c. Three to Seven -Authors Books

 List authors by their last names and first name/ initials. Use commas to separate author
names, while the last author‘s name is preceded again by an ampersand (&). (Year of
publication). Title of work in Italics, Location/place/city: Publisher. For example:

Hesen, J., Carpenter, K., Moriber, H., & Milsop, A. (2018). Computers in the business
world. Hartford, CT: Capital Press.

d. Editions other than first

 List authors by their last names and first name/ initials. Use an ampersand (&) instead of
―and,‖ and include a comma between them. (Year of publication). Title of work in Italics,
Location/place/city: Publisher. For example:

Creech, P. J., & Krugman, R. D. (1975). Radiology and technology of the absurd (3rd
ed.).Boston: Houghton-Mifflin.

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 e. Edited Volumes

 List author‘s last names and first name/ initials(Ed.). (Year of publication). Title of work
in Italics, Location/place/city: Publisher. For example,:

Stanton, D. C. (Ed.). (1987). The female autograph: Theory and practice of autobiography.
Chicago: University of Chicago Press.

 If you are referring to an article or signed chapter in an edited volume, your reference
would look like this:

Pepin, R. E. (1998). Uses of time in the political novels of Joseph Conrad. In C. W.

Darling, Jr., J. Shields, & V. B. Villa (Eds.), Chronological looping in
political novels (pp. 99-135). Hartford: Capital Press.

f. Organization as Author

 When a book or article is written by an organization, the organization‘s name takes the
place of the author‘s. Do not abbreviate. For example: American Psychological
Association. This is written as: Organization name. (Year of publication). Title of work in
Italics, Location/place/city: Publisher. For instance:

American Psychological Association. (2010). Publication manual of the American

Psychological Association (6th ed.). Washington, DC: Author.

g. Article or Chapter in an Edited Book

 List authors by their last names and first name/ initials. Use an ampersand (&) instead of
―and,‖ and include a comma between them. (Year of publication). Title of chapter. In A.
Editor & B. Editor (Eds.), Title of book in Italic (pages of chapter). Location: Publisher.
For example:

O‘Neil, J. M., & Egan, J. (1992). Men‘s and women‘s gender role journeys: Metaphor for
healing, transition, and transformation. In B. R. Wainrib (Ed.), Gender
issues across the life cycle (pp. 107-123). New York: Springer

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 h. Translated Book

 List author‘s last names and first name/ initials (Year ). Translated Book title in Italics
(name of Editor/s Trans.). Place: Publisher. For example:

Laplace, P. S. (1951). A philosophical essay on probabilities (F. W. Truscott & F. L.

Emory, Trans.). New York: Dover.

4.3.2.2 Reference List: Date

 The date in a reference citation will always appear in parentheses following the authors.
Always include a period after the closing parenthesis. The following are examples of
dates used in various reference scenarios, which will demonstrate how to organize your
sources in the reference list.

i. Two or More Works by the Same Author

 Use the author‘s name for all entries and order the entries by year (earliest comes first).
For example:

Dalglish, K. M. (1981). Children, nutrition, and learning. Educational Psychologist, 16, 24-
35.

Dalglish, K. M. (1999). Plain and simple. A teaching guide. Educational Psychologist, 34, 2-
14.
 When an author appears both as the only author and, in another citation, as the first author
of a group, list the one-author entries first, regardless of publication date.

Berndt, T. J. (1999). Friends‘ influence on students‘ adjustment to school. Educational

Psychologist, 34, 15-28.

Berndt, T. J., & Keefe, K. (1995). Friends‘ influence on adolescents‘ adjustment to school.
Child Development, 66, 1312-1329.

 References that have the same first author and different second and/or third authors are
arranged alphabetically by the last name of the second author or the last name of the third
if the first and second authors are the same. For example:

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Wegener, D. T., Kerr, N. L., Fleming, M. A., & Petty, R. E. (2000). Flexible corrections of
juror judgments: Implications for jury instructions. Psychology, Public
Policy, & Law, 6, 629-654.

Wegener, D. T., Petty, R. E., & Klein, D. J. (1994). Effects of mood on high elaboration
attitude change: The mediating role of likelihood judgments. European
Journal of Social Psychology, 24, 25-43.

ii. Two or More Works by the Same Author in the Same Year

 If there are multiple references by the same author in the same year, organize them in the
reference list alphabetically by the title of the article or chapter. Lowercase letters are
then added to each publication year, listed alphabetically. For example:

Berndt, T. J. (1981a). Age changes and changes over time in pro-social intentions and
behaviour between friends. Developmental Psychology, 17, 408-416.

Berndt, T. J. (1981b). Effects of friendship on pro-social intentions and behaviour. Child

Development, 52, 636-643.

 The same also applies to groups of writers. If you use more than one source by a group of
authors from the same year, attach a letter (starting with a) to the publication year. For
example:

Sturridge, D., Owen, M., & Reina, J. M. (2004a). Actor-network theory and post-
structuralism. International Journal of Actor-Network Theory and
Technological Innovation, 13(1), 54-75.

Sturridge, D., Owen, M., & Reina, J. M. (2004b). Human and non-human actors in ANT.
Hershey, PA: IGI Global.

iii. Works with No Date of Publication

 Some sources have no defined date of publication. In this case, write ―n.d.‖ (no date) in
place of the date. Follow the example as given hereunder

O‘Keefe, E. (n.d.). Egoism & the crisis in Western values. Retrieved from
http://www.onlineoriginals.com/showitem.asp?itemID=135

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iv. Forthcoming Works

 Use ―in press‖ in the place of a date to cite a work that has yet to be formally published.
For example:

Smith, P. (in press). Biannual retrograde and you. The Journal of Aging and Geriatric Health,
34(4), 145-178.

4.3.2.3 Reference List: SECONDARY/INDIRECT SOURCES

 To cite from a secondary source is to use material that is quoted or paraphrased elsewhere
when you do not use the original resource or quote from another source.

 List authors by their last names and first name/ initials. Use an ampersand (&) instead of
―and,‖ and include a comma between them. (Year of publication). Title in Italics .Place:
Publisher, quoted/cited in list authors by their last names and first name/ initials (Year),
title of source. Place: Publisher. For example:

Kouzes, J.M., & Posner, B.Z. (1987). The leadership challenge: How to get extra-ordinary
things done in organization, San Fracisco, CA: Jossey-Bass, quoted in Peter
G Northouse (2007), Leadership: Theory and Practice, New Delhi, Sage
Publication India Pvt. Ltd.

4.3.2.4 Reference List: JOURNALS AND PERIODICALS

 In reference to journals or periodicals, use inclusive page numbers. Do not use the
abbreviations ―p.‖ or ―pp.‖ unlike what you did in the main text of the paper or report.
 The periodical title is written in title case (all words upper case except for articles,
prepositions, and conjunctions), and is followed by the volume number, issue number and
page numbers. The title of the periodical and the volume number will always be
italicized.

A. Articles in Periodicals

 List author‘s last names and first name/ initials. (Year). Title of article. Title of
Periodical, volume number in Italics (issue number), pages. For example:

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Harlow, H. F. (1983). Fundamentals for preparing psychology journal articles. Journal of
Comparative and Physiological Psychology, 15(30), 893-896.

B. Periodicals without volume numbers

 Include month and day (if any) as well as the year. Months are not
abbreviated. Page numbers are not shortened (not 178-88; instead, use 178-
188).

List author‘s last names and first name/ initials. (Year, Month Date). Title of article. Title of
Periodical in Italics, pages. For example:

Grover, R. (1988, September 19). A megawatt power play. Business Week, 34-
35.

C. Article in a Journal Paginated by Volume

 Journals that are paginated by volume begin with page one in issue one and continue
numbering issue two where issue one ended. In this case, only the volume number and the
page number are necessary. Title of Journal and volume number should be in Italics.
 List author‘s last names and first name/ initials. (Year). Title of article. Title of Journal,
volume number, pages. For example:

Harlow, H. F. (1983). Fundamentals for preparing psychology journal articles. Journal of

Comparative and Physiological Psychology, 55, 893-896

D. Article in a Journal Paginated by Issue

 Journals paginated by issue begin with page one in every issue; therefore, the issue
number is indicated in parentheses after the volume. The parentheses and issue number
are not italicized or underlined. However, Title of Journal and volume number should be
in Italics.
 List author‘s last names and first name/ initials. (Year). Title of article. Title of Journal,
volume number (issue number), pages. For example:

Scruton, R. (1996). The eclipse of listening. The New Criterion, 15(30), 5-13.

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 E. Article in a Magazine

 Articles in works published more frequently, such as weekly magazines, will include
the month and date of publication. The title of magazine and volume number should be
in Italics.
 List author‘s last names and first name/ initials. (yyy, Month dd). Title of article. Title
of Magazine in Italics, volume number, pages. For example:

Henry, W. A., III. (1990, April 9). Making the grade in today's schools. Time, 135, 28-31.

F. Review

 For reviews, label the work as above, but also include the title and authors of the work
being reviewed.
 List author‘s last names and first name/ initials. (Year). Title of article [Review of the
book in Italics, by authors of the work]. Title of Journal in Italics, volume number,
pages. For Example:

Baumeister, R. F. (1993). Exposing the self-knowledge myth [Review of the book The self-
knower: A hero under control, by R. A. Wicklund & M. Eckert].
Contemporary Psychology, 38, 466-467.

4.3.2.5 Reference List: OTHER PRINT SOURCES

a. An Entry in an Encyclopaedia

 Much like a chapter in an edited book, the name of the entry is listed after the author
and year information. The volume and page numbers should also be included in the
same set of parentheses following the encyclopaedia‘s title and title should be Italics.
 List author‘s last names and first name/ initials. (Year). Title. In The name of
encyclopaedia in Italics (Vol. number, pp. number). Place: Encyclopaedia name. See
the following example:

Bergmann, P. G. (1993). Relativity. In The new encyclopaedia Britannica (Vol. 26, pp. 501-
508). Chicago, IL: Encyclopaedia Britannica.

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 b. Published Thesis/ Dissertation

 List author‘s last names and first name/ initials. (Year of publication). Title of
dissertation/ thesis in italics (Doctoral dissertation/ master‘s thesis). Retrieved from
Name of database. (Accession or Order Number). For example:

Cooley, T. (2009). Design, development, and implementation of a Wireless Local Area

Network (WLAN): The Hartford Job Corps Academy case study (Doctoral
dissertation). Available from ProQuest Dissertations and Theses database.
(UMI No. 3344745)

c. Unpublished Dissertation

 List author‘s last names and first name/ initials. (Year of publication). Title of
dissertation /thesis in italics (Unpublished doctoral dissertation/ master‘s thesis).
Name of Institution, Location. For example:

Assefa, A. (2017). Treatment of abusive males: Voluntary vs. court-mandated referrals

(Unpublished masters‘ thesis). Hawassa University, Hawassa, Ethiopia.

d. Government Document

 Name Government Organization/ Institution Name. (Year). Document title in Italics

(Publication No.). Location: Publisher. For example:

National Institute of Mental Health. (1990). Clinical training in serious mental illness
(DHHS Publication No. ADM 90-1679). Washington, DC: U.S. Government
Printing Office

e. Report from Private Organization

 Organization Name. (Year). Document Title in Italics. Location: Publisher. For

example:

American Psychiatric Association. (2000). Practice guidelines for the treatment of patients
with eating disorders (2nd ed.). Washington, DC: Author.

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 f. Legal Case

 List cases by title, give volume number and abbreviated name of reporting service,
stating page number in the volume, court that decided the case, and year. Examples:
Document/ agreement obtained from the United Nation Treaty Series (UNTS).

Agreement for Prosecution and punishment of the Major War Criminals of the European
Axis, (1951), 82 UNTS 280.

Geneva Convention of August 12, 1948 related to the Treatment of Prisoners of War, (1950),
75 UNTS 135

g. United Nations Documents like General Assembly Resolutions / Security Council

Resolutions

 See the following examples:

Statute of the International Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia (1993), UN Doc. S/RES/827,
annex.

Statute of the International Tribunal for Rwanda (1994), UN Doc. S/RES/955, annex.

h. Decisions of the International Court of Justice

 See the following examples:

Legality of the Treaty or Use of Nuclear Weapons, Advisory Opinion, (1996), ICJ Reports,
226, para.70

LeGrand (Germany Vs. United State of America), Provisional Measures, Order of 3 March
1999, (1999), ICJ Reports 1, para.29.

i. GATT Document in the Basic Instruments and Selected Documents

 See the following example:

Agreement on the Interpretation of Article VI of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade
(GATT, BISD 26 supp.171 (1980).

j. WTO Cases

 See the following example:

United States- Standards for Reformulated and Conventional Gasoline, Appellate Body Report
and Panel Report, WTO Document WTO/ DS2/ 9 of 20 May 1996.

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 k. Domestic Court Decisions

 See the following example:

Abel Yonas Vs SNNPR Administration, FDRE Court 2009, 3345.

l. Published Conference Proceedings

 When citing a paper that was published in the conference proceedings, cite the paper as
you would a chapter in an edited book.
 List authors by their last names and first name/ initials. Use an ampersand (&) instead
of "and," and include a comma between them. (Year of publication). Title of paper. In
Proceedings of Conference Title in Italics. Location: Publisher. For example:

Schnase, J. L., & Cunnius, E. L. (Eds.) (1995). Learning in the 21st century and beyond. In
Proceedings of the First International Conference on Computer Support for
Collaborative Learning (CSCL ‘95). Mahwah, NJ: Erlbaum.

m. Conference Papers

 When citing a paper that was presented at a conference but not published in the
conference proceedings, cite the source as follows:
 List author‘s last names and first name/ initials (Year of conference). Title of paper in
Italics. Paper presented at Conference Title, Location. For example:

Snyder, J. (2010). Studies of the effects of fasting on metabolism. Paper presented at the
AMIA Conference, New York.

4.3.2.6 Reference List: ELECTRONIC SOURCES (WEB PUBLICATIONS)

 Articles that are published online are very similar to print articles. You will want to
include all information the online host makes available to you, including an issue
number in parentheses (if available) and the source URL. Introduce the URL with
―Retrieved from‖ and the date the source was accessed.

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 i. Online Scholarly Journal Article with DOI Assigned

 List author‘s last names and first name/ initials (Year of publication). Title of work.
Title of Publication. Name of journal, Volume in Italics (Issue), page number, doi. For
example:

Brownlie, D. (2007). Toward effective poster presentations: An annotated bibliography.

European Journal of Marketing, 41(11/12), 1245-1283.
doi:10.1108/03090560710821161

ii. Article from an Online Periodical with no DOI Assigned

 List author‘s last names and first name/ initials (Year of publication). Title of work.
Title of Publication. Name of journal, Volume in Italics. Retrieved from http:// For
example:

Kenneth, I. A. (2000). A Buddhist response to the nature of human rights. Journal of

Buddhist Ethics, 8. Retrieved from http://www.cac.psu.edu/jbe/twocont.html

iii. Article in a newspaper

 List author‘s last names and first name/ initials (Year of publication, month date).
Title of article. Name of Newspaper in Italics. For example:

Singh,M.K.(2009, September 20). Urban Development in Delhi and Sustainable

Development. Times of India, New Delhi.

iv. Online Newspaper Article

 The newspaper‘s home page URL may be included in place of page numbers if the
article was accessed online.
 List author‘s last names and first name/ initials (Year of publication). Title of
Publication. Name of journal, Volume in Italics. Retrieved from http:// For example:

Parker-Pope, T. (2008, May 6). Psychiatry handbook linked to drug industry. The New York
Times. Retrieved from http://www.nytimes.com

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 v. Electronic Books

 Electronic books may include books found on personal websites, databases, or even in
audio form. Use the following format if the book you are using is only provided in a
digital format or is difficult to find in print. If the work is not directly available online
or must be purchased, use ―Available from,‖ rather than ―Retrieved from,‖ and point
readers to where they can find it. For books available in print form and electronic form,
include the publish date in parentheses after the author's name.
 List author‘s last names and first name/ initials (n.d). Title of Book. Retrieved/
Available from http:// For example

De Huff, E. W. (n.d.). Taytay’s tales: Traditional Pueblo Indian tales. Retrieved from
http://digital.library.upenn.edu/women/dehuff/taytay/taytay.html

Davis, J. (n.d.). Familiar birdsongs of the Northwest. Available from

http://www.powells.com/cgi-bin/biblio?inkey=1-9780931686108-0

vi. Chapter/Section of a Web Document or Online Book Chapter

 Cite the chapter as in a print book, but include the URL at the end of the reference
citation. If the chapter or section was retrieved from a database, list the database at the
end of the reference.

Engelshcall, R. S. (1997). Module mod-rewrite: URL Rewriting Engine. In Apache HTTP

Server Version 1.3 Documentation (Apache modules). Retrieved from
http://httpd.apache.org/docs/1.3/mod/mod_rewrite.html

Peckinpaugh, J. (2003). Change in the Nineties. In J. S. Bough & G. B. DuBois (Eds.), A

century of growth in America. Retrieved from Gold Star database.
 Note: Use a chapter or section identifier and provide a URL that links directly to the
chapter section, not the home page of the Web site.

vii. Online Book Reviews

 Cite the information as you normally would for the work you are quoting (The first
example below is from a newspaper article; the second is from a scholarly journal).

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  In brackets, write ―Review of the book‖ and give the title of the reviewed work (See
also Reference List: Articles in Periodicals—Review). Provide the web address after
the words ―Retrieved from,‖ if the review is freely available to anyone.
 If the review comes from a subscription service or database, write ―Available from"
and provide the information where the review can be purchased.

Zacharek, S. (2008, April 27). Natural women [Review of the book Girls like us]. The New
York Times.Retrieved from
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/27/books/review/Zachareckt.html?pagewanted=
2. For example:

Castle, G. (2007). New millennial Joyce [Review of the books Twenty-first Joyce, Joyce's
critics: Transitions in reading and culture, and Joyce's messianism: Dante,
negative existence, and the messianic self]. Modern Fiction Studies, 50(1), 163-
173. Available from Project MUSE Web site:
http://muse.jhu.edu/journals/modern_fiction_studies/toc/mfs52.1.html

viii. Online Encyclopaedias and Dictionaries

 Often encyclopaedias and dictionaries do not provide by-lines (authors‘ names). When
no by-line is present, move the entry name to the front of the citation. Provide
publication dates if present or specify (n.d.) if no date is present in the entry. For
example:

Feminism. (n.d.). In Encyclopaedia Britannica online. Retrieved from

http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/724633/feminism

ix. Television Broadcast

 See the following example:

Wang, Z. (Producer). (1990, November 1). The nightly news hour [Television broadcast].
New York, NY: Central Broadcasting Service.

x. A Television Series

 See the following example:

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 90

 Bellisario, D. L. (Producer). (1992). Exciting action show [Television series]. Hollywood,
CA: American Broadcasting Company.

xi. Personal, or Phone Interviews, Letter or E-mail

 See the following examples:

Fukuyama, F. (2010). E-mail to the author, 2010 April 5.

Sudhaka, P.M. (2010), personal interview, Office of Micro- Insurance Academy, New Delhi,
2010 April 1.

 NB. A document authenticating the content of the interview is mandatory.

4.3.2.7 Reference List: PERSONAL COMMUNICATION

 Personal communication refers to letters, telegrams, e-mails, phone conversations,

and so on. Because this kind of material is often not recoverable (i.e., it is not possible
for someone else to see or hear it), it should not be listed in the list of References.
 It can, however, be listed parenthetically within the text. It is extremely important
that what is cited in this way be legitimate and have scholarly integrity.
 The parenthetical citation for interviews may look like this:

(R. Wilbur, personal communication, March 28, 1968).

 The parenthetical citation for phone conversations may look like this:

According to Connie May Fowler, the sources for her novel Sugar Cane were
largely autobiographical (personal communication, July 22, 1997).

4.3.3 Appendices

 Just like the references, appendixes usually follow the last chapter of the thesis or
dissertation next to references.
 If there is material that should be in the thesis but which would break up the flow or bore
the reader unbearably, include it as an appendix.
 Some things which are typically included in appendices are: questionnaires, important
and original computer output(a typical example being Analysis of Variance Table), data

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 files that are too large to be represented simply in the results chapters, pictures or
diagrams of results which are not important enough to keep in the main text. Even tables
which are too long can be included in appendices.
 Each Appendix could be numbers either by capital and bold alphabets such as A B C D
and so on or in capital and bold Roman Numerals such as I, II, III, IV and so on.
 Appendix should list each section as:
 Appendix A: Analysis of variance and other tables
 Appendix B: Soil profile descriptions
 Appendix C: Forms and questionnaire used

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 PART FIVE

5 RECOMMENDED FORMAT FOR WRITING LLM THESIS PROPOSAL

5.1 Research Concept Paper

 Before proceeding with a full proposal, students are asked to submit three workable,
non-repetitive titles of their own and thematic area which has been notified to the
students by the school to work for their LLM thesis.
 Of the three titles, one of the titles which the student has top priority to work on
should be accompanied with a concept note or research concept paper.
 This research concept paper provides a basis for further development of the proposal
and it does not exceed three pages which composed of general introduction, statement
of the problem, objectives of the study (general and specific) and propose an
appropriate methodology to conduct the inquire and submitted to the school in line
with deadline notified to the students.

5.2 Formal Writing Research Proposal

 Typically, the formats research proposal is written in the future tense and incudes the
specific information that will form the basis of the first three chapters of your LLM
thesis.
 In addition to this, refer Part Three of this guideline (components of the proposal ....,
sub section 3.1, 3.2 and chapter 1) that assist you how you organize your research
proposal. You should strictly read, follow and apply them while writing up your
proposal.
 Sequencing layout of proposal as follows:

1. Title Page
2. Cover Page
3. Approval Sheet
4. Acronyms and Abbreviation (if any)
5. Table of Contents
6. List of International, Regional and National Laws
7. Lists of Table (if any)
8. Lists of Figure (if any)

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CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

1.2 Statement of the Problem
1.3 Objectives of the Study
1.3.1 General objectives
1.3.2 Specific objectives
1.4 Research Questions
1.5 Significance of the Study
1.6 Scope of the Study
1.7 Expected Limitations of the Study
1.8 Organization of the Study

CHAPTER 2: General Conceptual Framework on the Issue Indicated in the Topic

CHAPTER 3: Consideration of the Issue in the Light of Local Laws

Time Schedule
Budget Breakdown
References
Appendix

 NB: The maximum page for LLM thesis proposal may range from 15 to 20 pages.
 NB: Aforementioned ground rules/ formats specified under Part Two are also applicable
for the preparation of the proposal and main body of the thesis as well.

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 PART SIX

6 COMPONENTS OF GRADUATE THESIS FOR LLM PROGRAM

 The general format of graduate thesis writing for LLM contains three sections. The first
part of this section presents preliminary components of LLM thesis and the second
section provides presentation on the main body of LLM thesis while the third section
provides discussion on reference materials, appendices and footnotes.

6.1 PRELIMINARY COMPONENTS OF LLM THESIS

 It is important that you organise the preliminary materials in your thesis or dissertation
in a logical way. The following template is recommended for LLM students to prepare
their preliminary section of the thesis.

6.1.1 Template for LLM Thesis Preparation

1. Title Page
2. Cover Page
3. Approval Sheet
4. Dedication
5. Declaration
6. Biographic sketch
7. Acknowledgements
8. Acronyms and Abbreviations
9. Table of Contents
10. List of International, Regional and National laws
11. Lists of Tables
12. Lists of Figures
13. Abstract

1. TITLE PAGE

The first page of a thesis includes:

 Emblem/Logo of the University

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 Name of the University, School of Graduate Studies, Name of the College, Name of the
School. Typed both center with 14 font size and all capital letters and bold.
 Approved thesis title with capital letters and typed in center with 14 font size and all
capital letters and bold.
 Name of the degree with capital letters, for example, LLM Thesis
 Full name of the author with capital letters and typed in the central of the page
 Name and location of the University with capital letters
 Month and year of thesis submission with capital letters and typed 5 cm above the
bottom margin. The following box shows the Sample of Title Page for LLM Students.

FAIR TRADE PRACTICES IN LIGHT OF PUBLIC ENTERPRISES

UNDER ETHIOPIAN LAW: THE LAW AND PRACTICES; WONDO
TRADING AND INVESTMENT COMPANY IN FOCUS

LLM THESIS

EYASU GODANA GOSOMA

HAWASSA UNIVERSITY, HAWASSA, ETHIOPIA

June, 2021

2. COVER PAGE

 Title of the thesis or dissertation length is commonly not longer than 15 words.
 It is the first page under the title page typed in all capital letters with 14 font size and
center justified on each line with the following information.
 Approved thesis title 5 cm below the top of the page

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  Full name of the author typed 3 lines below the title
 Further 3 lines below it, the required degree title should be typed,
 Further 3 lines below it, the name of the degree specialization ………….. (Within
parentheses) should be typed.
 And this is followed by month and year of final copy of thesis submission should be
given at the bottom line. See the following samples of cover page.
 The following box shows the sample of Cover page for LLM students

FAIR TRADE PRACTICES INLIGHT OF PUBLIC ENTERPRISES

UNDER ETHIOPIAN LAW: THE LAW AND PRACTICES; WONDO
TRADING AND INVESTMENT COMPANY IN FOCUS

EYASU GODANA GOSOMA

MAJOR ADVISOR: …….(PHD)

CO- ADVISOR: …......( LLM/PHD)

LLM THESIS SUBMITTED TO THE SCHOOL OF LAW,

COLLEGE OF LAW AND GOVERNANCE, SCHOOL OF

GRDAUATE STUDIES, HAWASSA UNIVERSITY,

HAWASSA, ETHIOPIA

IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE

REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DEGREE OF MASTER OF LAWS

JUNE, 2021

HAWASSA

3. APPROVAL SHEET

 Each LLM thesis submitted for evaluation should contain the following two certificates.

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 97

  Approval sheet form of the major and/or Co-advisor (See Appendix- I of this
guideline and see Appendix-XV Advisors' Approval Sheet of HUSGS 2020
guideline).
 Approval Sheet from the Board of Examiners (See appendix-II of this guideline and
read Appendix- XVI Examiner‘s Approval Sheet-I of HUSGS 2020 guideline). It
should be attached after defense.

4. DECLARATION

 This is the place where the candidate seriously declares that the thesis/dissertation
represents his/her own original work and is not submitted to any other institution
elsewhere for the award of any degree, diploma or certificate.
 The candidate also acknowledges here the various sources of information, ideas, views
and opinions and the like that he or she borrowed and used in the thesis/dissertation.
 See the following sample how to write declaration.

DECLARATION
I hereby declare that ―write name of title here‖ is my original work and has not been
presented for a degree in any other university, and all sources of material used for this
thesis / dissertation have been duly acknowledged.
Name:___________________________________
Signature:_______________________

This LLM thesis title has been submitted for examination with my approval as thesis
advisor.

5. DEDICATION (Optional)

 The dedication should be short and concise and ideally no more than one sentence long.
Please refer to the following sample dedication. Use one of the two or you can provide
your own dedication.

Sample One: I dedicate this thesis/dissertation to James Kemal, soil scientist, geographer,
teacher, scholar, man of arts and letters, philosopher, world citizen and a friend of all.

HUCLG M.A/ LLM Thesis/ PhD Dissertation Guideline- 2021 98

 Or

Sample Two: I dedicate this thesis/dissertation manuscript to my father Ketema Worku and
my mother Alemaz Desta, for nursing me with affection and love and for their dedicated
partnership in the success of my life.

6. BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH (Optional for masters, but mandatory for PhD

followers)

 The candidate is not expected to write too long a biographic sketch. It would suffice
the need if he/she includes information on the following: a) date and place of birth b)
educational qualifications c) work experience and d) marital status.
 Thus, the biographical sketch should be condensed, very precise, and concise.

7. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

 It is good to thank those people who actually helped you technically in scientific matters
and also indirectly by providing things.
 Therefore, intellectual and practical assistance, advice, encouragement and sources of
monetary support should be acknowledged.
 It is appropriate to acknowledge the prior publication of any material included in the
thesis either in this section or in the introductory chapter of the thesis or dissertation.

8. ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

 Acronyms and abbreviations are listed in alphabetic order of the terms when written in
full form.
 Well known abbreviations such as FAO, WHO and HIV and S.I units do not need to be
listed.
 Each abbreviations and acronym should be written in full when it is first used and
followed by its abbreviation or acronym in in brackets. Thereafter only abbreviation is
used, for example, United States of America (USA) and thereafter USA.
 Also applicable to references, for instance, Department of Education (DoE) and thereafter
DoE.
 Furthermore, see a sample acronyms and abbreviation that is given in Appendix-III.

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9. TABLE OF CONTENTS

 The following guideline provided for LLM students how to write their table of contents.

 While working on the draft thesis, students are required to use an automated table of
contents by using the menu bar; then reference; then table of contents; then table of
contents drop down button. See Appendix-V.

10. LISTS OF INTERNATIONAL, REGIONAL AND NATIONAL LAWS

 Under this element, students will list in alphabetical order the legal instruments that
they use in the thesis.

11. LISTS OF TABLES

 It comes soon after the ‗table of contents‘.

 The list of tables is constituted of the captions of the tables included in the
thesis/dissertation.
 The major points to be observed in preparing the list of tables include:
 In the text, all Tables are numbered consecutively (with Arabic numerals) starting
with their chapters number. For instance, ‗Table 2.1‘ for the table one which appeared
first in chapter two of the thesis/dissertation, and the captions apart from being short
and descriptive, must appear on the top of the each table. Do for all tables under their
particular chapters.
 In the list of tables, the number of the table, the caption (or title) with all entries
corresponding exactly in wording (including fonts and cases) with that in the text and
the page number of the manuscript on which each table occurs are entered.
 Only the initial letters of the first word and of proper nouns are capitalized both in the
text and in the List of Tables.
 No terminal punctuation is used for the headings or after any title listed therein.
 The words table and page with their initial letters in capitals head their respective
columns, flush with the margin.
 A Sample List of Tables is shown in Appendix-VI.

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12. LISTS OF FIGURES

 The list of figures or illustrations is the section that appears on a new page following the
List of Tables.
 This section is constituted of the captions of the figures like graphs, diagrams and other
illustrations that are included in the thesis/dissertation.
 The major points to be observed in preparing the List of Figures/Illustrations include:
 In the text, all Figures and Illustrations are numbered consecutively (with Arabic
numerals) starting with their chapters number. For instance, ‗Figure 3.1‘ for the figure
one which appeared first in chapter three of the thesis/dissertation, and the captions
apart from being short and descriptive, must appear on the bottom of each Figure. Do
for all figures under their particular chapters.
 In the list of figures or illustrations, the number of the figure, the caption (or title)
with all the entries corresponding exactly in wording (including fonts and cases) with
that in the text and the page number of the manuscript on which each figure occurs are
entered.
 Only the initial letters of the first word and of proper noun are capitalized both in the
text and in the list of figures.
 No terminal punctuation is used for the headings or after any title listed therein.
 The words ‗Figure‘ and ‗page‘ with their initial letters in capitals head their respective
columns, flush from the margin.
 A sample list of figure or illustrations is given in Appendix-VII.

13. ABSTRACT

 The following information guided LLM students how to write their abstract.
 The abstract should be organized by first stating the aims of the study followed by the
basic study design and methods. This should then be followed by the main results
including specific data and their statistical significance. Finally, finish with the
conclusion and interpretation.

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6.2 THE MAIN BODY OF THE LLM THESIS

6.2.1 Template for the Preparation of the Main Body of LLM Thesis

1. Introduction
2. General Conceptual Framework on the issue indicated in the topic
3. Consideration of the issue in the light of local laws
4. The law in practice
5. Summary, Conclusion and Recommendations
6. References
7. Appendices

 NB: Each thesis or dissertation is unique but all share several common elements. The
following demonstration should serve as a guideline for presenting the main body of the
LLM thesis.

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION

 In this chapter, you should lead your reader to a clear understanding of the broad objectives
of your study. This chapter must capture the imagination of the reader, and should be easy to
read. The importance of your study should be apparent in this chapter.
 An introduction is what the Doctoral dissertation or master thesis is all about. It introduces
the research project to the reader and is judged on how far back in the past you start. The
introduction is supposed to enable someone with no knowledge of your field to read and
understand your thesis.
 Usually this chapter has the following subheadings: background of the study, statement of the
problem, objectives- general and specific, research questions, significance of the study, scope
or delimitations of the study, limitations of the study, and organization of the study.

102
1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

 This section presents a general background to the topical area. It is a general, broad statement
that provides an overview of the area involving your study.
 Guiding questions for this area are:
 Why this area is an important one?
 What has been the historical development of the topic?
 Are there different points of view about the topic?
 Have there been significant investigations, studies, or reports concerning the topical area?
 What is the current status of the area of your interest?
 What are the major outstanding concerns in the general area?

1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

 As the background has given a broad, general background to the study, problem statement of
the study should be very specific in nature. Thus, state the problem(s) as simply as you can.
 The statement of the problem might begin with the words, ―The problem of the study is....‖
or ―This study will address the problem of...‖
 Guiding questions for this area are:
 Does the problem pose significance for your field of study?
 Will the problem present data that explains previously unexplained facts? (Research Gap)
 Will the problem serve as a point of departure for the study?
 Try to step back mentally and take a broader view of the problem. How does it fit into the
broader world of your discipline?

1.3 . OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

 This section provides you with an opportunity to tell the reader the overall and specific
objectives of your study.
 Each objective should be with action verbs or outcomes based verbs at the beginning of the
statement
103
 The most preferred action verbs, for example, “identify”, “define”, “relate”, “describe”,
“review”, “compare”, “contrast”, “analyze”, “assess”.
 However, verbs such as “understand”, “explore”, “investigate”, “examine” and
“discuss” are poor verbs as they describe processes, not outcomes - You can discuss
something endlessly without ever having to make recommendations, draw conclusions or
offer a result – At least they cannot be the end result of your research.

1.3.2 General objective

 State the general objective of research briefly, it should be concise and to the point, ensuring
that the suggested aim will lead to answerable questions/feasibility of the study. For example:
 The main aim of this research is to assess (an action verb) perceptions and experiences of
students, teachers, other school staff, governors and parents about school violence.

1.3.2 Specific objectives of the study

o As in the proposal, describe specific objectives of the study.

o Check here;
 Is the objective specific and clearly stated?
 Is the objective directly related to the review of the literature?
 Example of specific objectives:
1. To identify perceptions of students, teachers, other school staff, governors and parents about
school violence?
2. To assess experiences of students, teachers, other school staff, governors and parents about
school violence?
3. To compare these perceptions against the formal recording of the school of ‗incidents‘ of
violence.

104
1.4 RESEARCH QUESTIONS

 Questions asked should correspond and be consistent with the above specific objectives. For
example:
1. What are the perceptions of students, teachers, other school staff, governors and parents
about school violence?
2. What are the experiences of students, teachers, other school staff, governors and parents
about school violence?
3. Do such perceptions match the formal recording of the school of ‗incidents‘ of violence?
 In a thesis, research questions to be answered are guided by the following questions:
 Is the question directly related to the review of the literature?
 Does the question help clarify the problem statement?

1.5 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

 This sub-heading, explain the significance of and justification for conducting the study.
 It provides answers as to what the study will contribute. It should specifically state the value
of the study. Why is this study important?
 The significance is addressed by discussing how the study adds to the theoretical body of
knowledge in the field of your study.

1.6 SCOPE OF THE STUDY

 In this section, you define the boundaries in the problem area within which the study will be
done, and the population or situation to which the findings may apply.
 Scope can be geographical and/or to what extent the data analysis will be done. For instance,
you may say that this research is conducted in Hawassa. Provide reasons, why Hawassa?
 This might therefore imply that the results did not apply to other parts of Ethiopia because
the research environments are not the same.
 Just an example, in terms of data analysis, you may say that only descriptive research and no
explanatory research employed.
105
 You can delimitate your scope of study in terms of content/ theoretical scope by giving focus
on themes in your research questions or specific objectives. Furthermore, you can delimitate
your study in terms of Time span. For instance, this study covers the year between this and
this.

1.7 LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY

 These are constraints to the study that are beyond your control but that may influence the
data.
 Limitations may emerge at any time during your study. List them and describe actions you
should take to solve them.
 For instance, lack of baseline data/literature; respondents may misunderstand the purpose of
the study and thus they may be unwilling or fear or suspect to provide necessary information;
conduct the field study during some seasons, for instance, when farmers are highly occupied
by farm activities; obtaining permission letters from government officials in the study area
before moving to field research work.

1.8 ORGANIZATION OF THE STUDY

 The organization of the study briefly describes what can be expected in each chapter.

CHAPTER TWO: GENERAL CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK ON THE ISSUE

INDICATED IN THE TOPIC

 General Comments

 You should begin each chapter on new page.

 Typically Chapter 2 is a review of related literature that is relevant to your thesis or
dissertation. The survey of literature must be relevant to the problem of the study. You must
indicate what has already been done in the field of your study.

106
 All relevant studies must be critically analysed and evaluated. Studies that have been well
done, yielding reliable results, should be identified, and ought to serve as a point of departure
for future studies.
 Make sure that the sources are not out-dated. Focus on recent sources – preferably not older
than 5 years into the past. At least 90% of literature review should be completed before you
design or select your research instrument.
 Strictly, use the OSCOLA HUJL Citation Guidelines for LLM.
 NB: in addition to the above ideas, the candidates should realize the following main points
while they review literatures.
 The literature review chapter should be well structured, may be according to the specific
objectives of the research.
 Literature should be critically reviewed and discussed – indicating how it relates to the
research topic – it must be relevant.
 A gap in the literature should be clearly indicated and discussed. This is the gap that will be
bridged by the suggested research - forming the contribution to the existing body of
knowledge.
 It is important that you organize the review of related literature in your thesis/dissertation in a
logical way. Although there are no hard and fast rules in this regard, the following structure
seems to fit most cases.
 In legal research, the second chapter presents the general topic that relates to general issues,
for example a general consideration of gender equality. It will have an introduction, if agreed
between the student and advisor, and the sub-headings reflect the context of the chapter.
 The following excerpt will explain how the chapter is organized under chapter two.

CHAPTER TWO

2. FULL PROTECTION AND SECURITY CLAUSE AS FOREIGN INVESTMENT

PROTECTION STANDARD: THE INTERNATIONAL JURISPRUDENCE

107
 2.1 INTRODUCTION

2.2 DEFINITION AND CONTENT OF THE FULL PROTECTION AND

SECURITY

2.3 HISTORICAL BACKGROUND OF THE PRTOCATION AND SECURITY

STANDARD

2.4 EXPERIENCES OF SOME COUNTRIES REGARDING FULL PROTECTION

AND SECURITY(MODEL BILATERAL INVESTMENT TREATIES)

2.4.1 European Union Experience on Full Protection and Security

2.4.2 The United States of American Model Bit on Full Protection and Security

2.4.3 Indian Model bit on the Full Protection and Security

2.4.4 The South Africa’s Experience on Full Protection and Security

2.5 INTERNATIONAL ARBITRAL AWARDS ON THE FULL PROTECTION

AND SECURITY

2.6 DIVERGENCE OF TRIBUNALS’ INTERPRETATIONS OF FULL

PROTECTION AND SECURITY STANDARD

2.7 CONCLUSION

 You should end with a conclusion this chapter and at least a sentence linking it to the
following chapter. For instance, this chapter presented ….The next chapter provides
discusses on ……
 NB: Tips for LLM candidates while they are reviewing literature and some tips how they
know whether their literature is adequate or not (refer page 54, read and use them).

CHAPTER THREE: CONSIDERATION OF THE ISSUE IN THE

LIGHT OF LOCAL LAWS

 In legal research, the third chapter does not provide issues of methodology and specific
methods as is a custom in other social science research. Conversely, it is highly related to the
second chapter and concerned with the following issues.
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 As is true for the second chapter, the heading of the chapter is a topic chosen in reflection of
the research topic. Often, it relates to the jurisdiction of study or specialized issue. It will
have an introduction, if agreed between the student and advisor, and the sub-headings reflect
the context of the chapter.
 The following excerpt will explain how the chapter is organized under chapter three.

CHAPTER THREE

3. FULL PROTECTION AND SECURITY UNDER BILATERAL INVESTMENT

TREATIES’ OF ETHIOPIA, THE LAW AND THE PRACTICE

3.1 INTRODUCTION

3.2 FULL PROTECTION AND SECURITY UNDER BILATERAL INVESTMENT

TREATIES’ OF ETHIOPIA, THE LAW

3.3 FULL PROTECTION AND SECURITY UNDER BILATERAL INVESTMENT

TREATIES’ OF ETHIOPIA, THE PRACTICE

3.4 CONCLUSION

 You should end with a conclusion this chapter and at least a sentence linking it to the
following chapter. For instance, this chapter presented ….The next chapter provides
discusses on ……

CHAPTER FOUR: 1 THE LAW IN PRACTICE

 This chapter is concerned with the analysis of the field data in the light of the doctrines or
laws discussed under the second and third chapter.

 This is to say, it tries to respond to research questions which are empirical in their nature.

CHAPTER 5: SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

1
Found in non-doctrinal research often times

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5.1 INTRODUCTION

 The introduction can start with a brief reference to what was covered in the previous chapter
and then move on to the new chapter.
 It also presents the purpose of the chapter and also indicates what topics will be addressed in
the chapter.

5.2 SUMMARY OF MAJOR FINDINGS OF THE STUDY

 This is an overview of the major findings of the study in line with each specific objective of
the study

5.3 CONCLUSION

 This is an area you draw conclusions from your findings. Number or bullet the conclusions.
 The conclusions must relate directly to the findings. The key is to establish what the results
mean. How are they applied to the world?
 Be self-critical whether your results showed what you expected or not.
 Any survey has flaws in its method so it is always a good idea to show that you are aware of
these. If your study gave unexpected results explain the possible reasons for why this
happened and suggestions for refining the techniques and structure of your study next time.
 As long as you have justified yourself and pointed out your own shortcomings then your
results will be relevant and you should receive a good result. In short, draw suitable and
justifiable conclusions based only on the results of a research study.

5.4 RECOMMENDATIONS

 The final stage of the research process is the researcher‘s recommendations based upon the
results and conclusions. Number or bullet each recommendation.
 Do not give recommendations that are not based on the study results or make
recommendations based on the results of a research study.
 You should indicate and justify the findings that need solution and suggest recommendations

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 how you have to solve them and determine who is or are going to implement the
recommendation.

5.5 FUTURE RESEARCH

 This is an area where you propose issues for future research in relation to your study by
raising the following questions:
 Does your work suggest any interesting further ways? Are there ways in which your work
could be improved by future researchers?

6.3 FOOTNOTES, REFERENCES AND APPENDICES

6.3.1 Footnotes

 The School of Law Journal uses the OSCOLA citation style and the students should follow
for any LL.M thesis research. Moreover, you should not use in-text citations while writing up
your thesis.

6.3.2 References

 The references usually follow the last chapter.

 While reproducing your reference list, we recommend for LLM students to use the HUSGS
guideline of 2020.

6.3.3 Appendices

 Just like the references, appendixes usually follow the last chapter of the thesis next to
references.
 Anything listed under appendices should be referred to in the text, using an appropriate
numbering system or lettering system.
 If there is material that should be in the thesis but which would break up the flow or bore the
reader unbearably, include it as an appendix.

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 Some things which are typically included in appendices are: questionnaires, important and
original computer programs, data files that are too large to be represented simply in the
results chapters, pictures or diagrams of results which are not important enough to keep in the
main text. Even tables which are too long can be included in appendices.

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 REFERENCES

American Psychological Association (2010). Publication manual of the American

Psychological Association (6th Edition), Washington D.C: Author

School of Graduate Studies (2020). A Comprehensive Graduate Studies Guideline

(February, 2020.)-For Master‘s and PhD Programs, School of Graduate Studies (SGS),
Hawassa University,

Oxford Standard Citation of Legal Authorities (2006). Citing International Sources Section,
Faculty of Law, University of Oxford, www.law.ox.ac.uk/oscola,

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 APPENDICES

APPENDIX- I: ADVISORS’ APPROVAL SHEET

ADVISORS’ APPROVAL SHEET
SCHOOL OF GRADUATE STUDIES
HAWASSA UNIVERSITY ADVISORS’ APPROVAL SHEET

This is to certify that the thesis entitled ―____________________________________”submitted

in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master's with specialization in
______________________, the Graduate Program of the Department/School of
_____________________________, and has been carried out by__________________ ID.
No._________, under my/our supervision. Therefore I/we recommend that the student has
fulfilled the requirements and hence hereby can submit the thesis to the department.

_______________________________ _______________ ___________

Name of major advisor Signature Date

_______________________________ _______________ ___________

Name of co-advisor (if there is any) Signature Date

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 APPENDIX-II: EXAMINER’S APPROVAL SHEET
SCHOOL OF GRADUATE STUDIES
HAWASSA UNIVERSITY EXAMINERS’ APPROVAL SHEET

We, the undersigned, members of the Board of Examiners of the final open defense by
__________________________ have read and evaluated his/her thesis entitled
“_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________” and examined the candidate. This is, therefore, to
certify that the thesis has been accepted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree.
__________________________ _______________ ___________
Name of Major Advisor Signature Date
__________________________ ________________ ___________
Name of Internal Examiner-I Signature Date
__________________________ ________________ ___________
Name of Internal Examiner-II Signature Date
__________________________ _______________ __________
Name of External examiner Signature Date
__________________________ _______________ __________
SGS Approval Signature Date

Final approval and acceptance of the thesis is contingent upon the submission of the final copy
of the thesis to the School of Graduate Studies (SGS) through the Department/School Graduate
Committee (DGC/SGC) of the candidate's department. Stamp of SGS Date: ____________

Remark
o Use this form to submit the thesis with MINOR CORRECTION suggested by the examining
board
o 3 copies.

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 APPENDIX-III: ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

AE Adult Equivalent
ATE Average Treatment Effect
CCT Conditional Cash Transfers
CFSTF Community Food Security Task Force
DAs Development Agents
FAO Food and Agriculture Organization
FGDs Focus Group Discussions
HDI Human Development indicators

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APPENDIX-IV: TABLE OF CONTENTS (SAMPLE FOR MA AND PHD PROGRAM)

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CONTENTS PAGE
APPROVAL SHEET........................................................................................ I
DEDICATION……………………………………………………………….. II
DECLARATION.............................................................................................. II
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH OF THE AUTHOR........................................... IV
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS.............................................................................. V
GLOSSARY OF LOCAL TERMS.................................................................. VI
ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS......................................................... VII
TABLE OF CONTENTS................................................................................. VIII
LISTS OF TABLES......................................................................................... IX
LISTS OF FIGURES........................................................................................ XII
ABSTRACT....................................................................................................... XIII
CHAPTER ONE................................................................................................. 1
1 INTRODUCTION............................................................................................ 1
1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY................................................................. 1
1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM................................................................ 3
1.3 OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY........................................................................ 5
1.3.1 General objective..................................................................................... 5
1.3.2 Specific Objectives.................................................................................. 5
1.4 KEY RESEARCH QUESTIONS..................................................................... 6
1.5 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE OF THE STUDY.................................................. 6
1.6 SCOPE OF THE OF THE STUDY.................................................................. 7
1.7 LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY................................................................... 7
1.8 OPERATIONAL DEFINITIONS OF TERMS................................................ 7
1.9 ORGANIZATION OF THE THESIS.............................................................. 8
CHAPTER TWO.............................................................................................. 9
2 RELATED LITERATURE REVIEW.............................................................. 9
2.1 INTRODUCTION…………………………………………………………… 9
2.2 CONCEPTUAL LITERATURE REVIEW...................................................... 9
2.3 THEORETICAL LITERATURE REVIEW..................................................... 10
2.3.1Theories on Food Security.................................................................... 11
2.3.1.1 Food Availability Decline Approach................................................ 11

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 2.3.1.2 Income based approach………………………………………………… 12
2.3.1.3 Basic needs/food first/ approach……………………………………… 13
2.3.1.4 Sustainable livelihoods approach……………………………………… 13
2.3.1.5 Disaster based theory of food security.............................................. 14
2.3.2 Food Security at National or Regional Level.......................................... 15
2.3.3 Ethiopia‘s contemporary food security condition.................................... 16
2.3.4 Food Security: Measurement and Indicators........................................... 17
2.3.5 Households‘ coping mechanisms/strategies............................................ 18
2.4 EMPIRICAL LITERATURE REVIEW........................................................... 19
2.5 CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK OF THE STUDY........................................ 23
2.6 CONCLUSION………………………………………………………………. 24
CHAPTER THREE.......................................................................................... 25
3 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY..................................................................... 25
3.1 INTRODUCTION............................................................................................ 25
3.2 DESCRIPTION OF THE STUDY AREA………………………………….. 25
3.2.1 Climate.................................................................................................... 26
3.2.2 Population growth and pattern................................................................. 27
3.2.3 Economic activities of the study area...................................................... 28
3.3 RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHOD.......................................................... 29
3.4 TYPE AND SOURCES OF DATA................................................................. 30
3.4.1 Primary data............................................................................................. 30
3.4.2 Secondary data......................................................................................... 30
3.5 SAMPLING TECHNIQUES AND SAMPLING SIZE
DETERMINATION......................................................................................... 31
3.6 METHOD OF DATA COLLECTION............................................................. 32
3.6.1 Survey Questionnaires............................................................................. 33
3.6.2 Key Informant Interviews........................................................................ 34
3.6.3 Focus Group Discussions........................................................................ 35
3.7 METHOD OF DATA ANALYSIS.................................................................. 36
3.8 ETHICAL CONSIDERATION........................................................................ 37
3.9 CONCLUSION................................................................................................. 38
CHAPTER FOUR............................................................................................ 39
4 RESULT AND DISCUSSION......................................................................... 39
4.1 INTRODUCTION…………………………………………………………… 39
4.2 DEMOGRAPHIC AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC CHARACTERISTICS OF
THE RESPONDENTS..................................................................................... 39

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 4.2.1 Age and Sex of the respondents............................................................... 40
4.2.2 Marital status........................................................................................... 42
4.2.3 Educational status of respondents............................................................ 42
4.2.4 Household family size............................................................................. 44
4.2.5 Occupation of respondents...................................................................... 45
4.3 THE EXTENT TO WHICH HOUSEHOLDS ACCESS TO FOOD
THROUGHOUT THE YEAR.......................................................................... 46
4.3.1Measuring household food security status using MAHFP................... 46
4.3.2 Household dietary diversity.................................................................... 47
4.3.3 Measuring household food security status in terms of HDDS................ 48
4.3.3 Household food inaccessibility................................................................ 49
4.4 THE CURRENT STATUS OF FOOD INSECURITY IN THE RURAL
HOUSEHOLDS................................................................................................ 51
4.4.1 Households livelihood............................................................................. 52
4.4.2 Crop production and animal rearing........................................................ 52
4.4.3 Livestock production............................................................................... 53
4.4.4 Water source and collector...................................................................... 54
4.4.5 Periods of food shortages and its reasons................................................ 55
4.5 THE NATURE OF COPING MECHANISMS OF THE HOUSEHOLDS IN
THE STUDY AREA........................................................................................ 57
4.6 BINARY LOGISTIC REGRESSION MODEL............................................... 59
4.6.1 Goodness of fit test.................................................................................. 59
4.6.2 Multicollinearity...................................................................................... 61
4.7 CONCLUSION………………………………………………………………. 63
CHAPTER FIVE.............................................................................................. 64
5 SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS...................... 64
5.1 INTRODUCTION............................................................................................ 64
5.2 SUMMARY OF MAJOR FINDINGS OF THE STUDY................................ 65
5.3 CONCLUSION................................................................................................. 67
5.4 RECOMMENDATIONS.................................................................................. 69
5.5 FUTURE RESEARCH..................................................................................... 71
REFERENCES................................................................................................. 73
APPENDIXES.................................................................................................. 76
Appendix-I: Household Survey Questionnaire................................................ 76
Appendix-II: Check List of Focus Group Discussions.................................... 81
Appendix-III: Semi-Structure Interview for Key Informants........................... 83

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 APPENDIX-V: TABLE OF CONTENTS (SAMPLE FOR LLM PROGRAM)

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CONTENTS PAGE
APPROVAL SHEET............................................................................................... I
DEDICATION…………………………………………………………………… II
DECLARATION..................................................................................................... II
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH OF THE AUTHOR.................................................. IV
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS.................................................................................... V
ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS................................................................ VI
TABLE OF CONTENTS........................................................................................ VII
LIST OF INTERNATIONAL, REGIONAL AND NATIONAL LAWS............... VIII
LISTS OF TABLES................................................................................................ IX
LISTS OF FIGURES............................................................................................... XII
ABSTRACT............................................................................................................. XIII
CHAPTER ONE...................................................................................................... 1
1. INTRODUCTION................................................................................................... 1
1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY........................................................................ 1
1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM....................................................................... 3
1.3 OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY............................................................................... 5
1.3.1 General objective......................................................................................... 5
1.3.2 Specific Objectives...................................................................................... 5
1.4 KEY RESEARCH QUESTIONS............................................................................ 6
1.5 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE OF THE STUDY......................................................... 6
1.6 SCOPE OF THE OF THE STUDY......................................................................... 7
1.7 LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY.......................................................................... 7
1.8 ORGANIZATION OF THE THESIS..................................................................... 8
CHAPTER TWO..................................................................................................... 9
2. FULL PROTECTION AND SECURITY CLAUSE AS FOREIGN
INVESTMENT PROTECTION STANDARD: THE INTERNATIONAL
JURISPRUDENCE................................................................................................. 9
2.1 INTRODUCTION………………………………………………………………... 9
2.2 DEFINITION AND CONTENT OF THE FULL PROTECTION AND
SECURITY.............................................................................................................. 15
2.3 HISTORICAL BACKGROUND OF THE FULL PROTECTION AND
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 SECURITY STANDARD....................................................................................... 18
2.4 EXPERIENCES OF SOME COUNTRIES REGARDING FULL
PROTECTION AND SECURITY (MODEL BILATERAL INVESTMENT
TREATIES)............................................................................................................. 21
2.4.1 European Union Experience on Full Protection and Security.................... 23
2.4.2 The United States of American Model BIT on Full Protection and
Security........................................................................................................ 25
2.4.3 The Canadian Model BIT on Full Protection and Security……………… 26
2.4.4. The South East Asian Nations experience on Full Protection and
Security…………………………………………………………………… 28
2.4.5 Indian Model BIT on the Full Protection and Security............................... 30
2.4.6 The South Africa‘s Experience on full protection and security.................. 32
2.5 INTERNATIONAL ARBITRAL AWARDS ON THE FULL PROTECTION
AND SECURITY.................................................................................................... 33
2.6 DIVERGENCE OF TRIBUNALS‘ INTERPRETATIONS OF FULL
PROTECTION AND SECURITY STANDARD................................................... 35
2.7 CONCLUSION....................................................................................................... 37
CHAPTER THREE................................................................................................. 38
3 FULL PROTECTION AND SECURITY UNDER BILATERAL
INVESTMENT TREATIES‘ OF ETHIOPIA, THE LAW AND THE
PRACTICE.............................................................................................................. 38
3.1 INTRODUCTION………………………………………………………………... 38
3.2 FULL PROTECTION AND SECURITY UNDER BILATERAL
INVESTMENT TREATIES‘ OF ETHIOPIA, THE LAW..................................... 39

3.3 FULL PROTECTION AND SECURITY UNDER BILATERAL

INVESTMENT TREATIES‘ OF ETHIOPIA, THE PRACTICE........................... 44

3.4 CONCLUSION....................................................................................................... 45
CHAPTER FOUR………………………………………………………………... 46
4 THE LAW IN PRACTICE..................................................................................... 46
4.1 INTRODUCTION................................................................................................... 46
4.2 ................................................................................................................................. 47
4.3 ................................................................................................................................. 55
4.4 CONCLUSION....................................................................................................... 57
CHAPTER FIVE..................................................................................................... 59
5 SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS 59
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5.1 INTRODUCTION................................................................................................... 59
5.2 SUMMARY OF MAJOR FINDINGS OF THE STUDY....................................... 59
5.3 CONCLUSION....................................................................................................... 62
5.4 RECOMMENDATIONS........................................................................................ 64
5.5 FUTURE RESEARCH............................................................................................ 65
REFERENCES........................................................................................................ 68
APPENDIXES......................................................................................................... 71
Appendix-I: Questionnaire.................................................................................. 71
Appendix-II: Interview Guideline for Key Informants........................................... 73

APPENDIX-VI: LISTS OF TABLES

Table Page
3.1: Summary of Total population……………………………………………………............….26
3.2: Sampling Frame of the Study….............................................................................................27
3.3: Sampling Respondents………………………….….……………………………..................27
3.4: Cronbach‘s Alpha test for each field of the questionnaire………………………..…………29
4.1: Demographic characteristic of the respondents………………………………….……….....33
4.2: Current job position and service years …...............................................................................35
4.3: Development strategy, policy and plan practice in the Education Offices …........................37
4.4: Perceptions of managers and employees for training opportunity …....................................42
4.5: Assessment of effectiveness of human resource development …..……………………...….47
4.6: Challenges related to human resource development ….........................................................52

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 APPENDIX-VII: LISTS OF FIGURES

Figure Page
2.1: Conceptual Framework of the Study …………………………………………………….....23
3.1: Location Map of Study Area ….............................................................................................24
4.1: Distribution of Household Head by Sex ………………………….….……………………..44
4.2: Distribution of Household Head by Age Category….............................................................46
4.3: Distribution of Household Head by Education Level ………………………………….…..48
4.4: The Extent of Laws Implementation…..................................................................................51

APPENDIX-VIII: SUPERVISION CONTRACT AGREEMENT BETWEEN STUDENT

AND ADVISOR/ SUPERVISOR

Supervision Contract between (student‘s name) (ID) and (Advisors‘/supervisors‘ names)

For (Name of Qualification), (Name of School/Department) (Name of College) (Name of
University) (Year)

Supervision Meetings

Supervision meetings will generally be held on a monthly basis although more frequent meetings
can be negotiated as needed. Where possible supervision dates will coincide with submission of
draft chapters. Meetings will be held via phone or conference calls or face to face. The general
format of these meetings will be to discuss progress and to provide oral feedback on work
submitted; supervisors/divisors and candidates may negotiate mutually agreed documentation of
supervision meetings, including action points for the future. Preferred day/time is {xxx}.

Feedback on drafts of work

Oral and written feedback will be routinely provided for drafts of work. Turn-around time for
written feedback will be three weeks unless otherwise arranged.
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 Proposed Timeline:_________________________________________________________

The following timetable is a guide only and will be revised at regular intervals as necessary.
{Work backwards from final submission date}

Final submission date:_______________________________________________________

Statement of principles for postgraduate supervision

In a context of academic freedom and within a framework of individual autonomy and the pursuit of knowledge this statement is
written in the belief that there is a reciprocal relationship and mutual accountability between supervisor/advisor and student.
THE SUPERVISOR/ADVISOR: THE STUDENT:
1. Undertakes to provide guidance for the student‘s research 1. Undertakes to work independently under the guidance
project in relation to the design and scope of the project, the of the supervisor/advisor. This includes reading
relevant literature and information sources, research methods widely to ensure that the literature pertinent to his/her
and techniques and methods of data analysis. chosen topic has been identified and consulted.
2. Has a responsibility to be accessible to the students. 2. Is obliged to make appointments to see the
3. Will be prepared for the meeting with the student. This supervisor/advisor and will arrange meeting times
includes being up-to-date on the latest work in his/her area of well in advance.
expertise. 3. Will think carefully about how to get maximum
4. Will expect written work as jointly agreed, and will return that benefit from these contact sessions by planning what
work with constructive criticism within a timeframe (a he/she wants in these sessions.
suggestion of 2-4 weeks) jointly agreed at the outset of the 4. Should submit written work for discussion with the
research. supervisor/advisor well in advance of a scheduled
5. Will provide advice that can help the student to improve meeting. The kind and frequency of written work
his/her writing. This may include referrals for language should be agreed with the supervisor/advisor at the
training and academic writing. The supervisor/advisor will outset of the research.
provide guidance on technical aspects of writing such as 5. Written work that is submitted should be relatively
referencing as well as on discipline specific requirements. free from basic spelling mistakes, incorrect
Detailed correction of drafts and instruction in aspects of punctuation and grammatical errors. Responsibility
language and style are not the responsibility of the supervisor. for the accuracy of language, the overall structure and
6. Will support the student in the production of a research report, coherence of the final research report, dissertation or
dissertation or thesis. Provision should be allowed for thesis rests with the student.
adequate, mutually respectful, discussion around 6. Undertakes to heed the advice given by the
recommendations made. supervisor/advisor and to engage in discussion around
7. Will assist with the construction of a written time schedule suggestions made. Ultimately the student has to take
which outlines the expected completion dates of successive responsibility for the quality and presentation of the
stages of the work. work.
8. Will ensure the student has the opportunity to present work at 7. Should strive, within reasonable bounds, to maintain a
postgraduate/ staff seminars/national/international conferences focus on his/her research area and to work within the
as appropriate. agreed time schedule.
9. Will assist with the publication of research articles as 8. Will prepare material for presentations at seminars
appropriate. and conferences.
10. Will discuss the ownership of research conducted by the 9. Undertakes to submit papers for publication.
student in accordance with the University guidelines and rules 10. Agrees to honor agreements about ownership of the
on intellectual property, co-authorship and copyright. research and in accordance with the University‘s
11. Will ensure that the research is conducted in accordance with guidelines and rules in relation to co-authorship,
the University‘s policy on plagiarism. copyright and intellectual property.
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 12. Will ensure that the student is made aware in writing of the 11. Will ensure that the work contains no instances of
inadequacy of progress and/or of any work where the standard plagiarism and that all citations are properly
is below average. Acceptability will be according to criteria referenced and that the list of references is accurate,
previously supplied to the student. complete and consistent.
13. Has a duty to refuse to allow the submission of sub-standard 12. Agrees to work in accordance with the criteria of
work for examination, regardless of the circumstances. If the acceptability as supplied by the advisor/supervisor.
student chooses to submit without the consent of the 13. Undertakes not to place the supervisor under undue
supervisor/advisor, then this should be clearly recorded and the pressure to submit work for examination until the
appropriate procedures followed supervisor/advisor is satisfied that it has reached an
acceptable level of quality.
Name of Supervisor/advisor: _______________________________ Name of student: _________________________________
Supervisor‘s/advisor‘s signature: ____________________________ Student‘s signature: _______________________________
Date:___________________________________________________ Date:____________________________________________

Name of Co-supervisor/advisor: ____________________________

Co-supervisor‘s/advisor‘s signature: _________________________
Date:___________________________________________________

GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES: It should be acknowledged that during the course of the research that both students
and supervisors/advisors can feel aggrieved. In this event, these matters should be dealt with as swiftly as possible
by the parties involved and, if necessary, the School Postgraduate Coordinator, School/ Department Head and
School Graduate Committees. There is, in addition, a CLG Dean, Academic Affairs Associate Dean and
Postgraduate Coordinator to solve the matters occurred between parties.

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