Academic English: How to Write a Thesis from edX

Designed for anyone writing their first academic research project, Academic English: How to Write a Thesis guides you through the process of becoming an academic research writer into producing your first academic research publication. Created by experts in academic writing, the course spans 5 modules covering what it means to be an academic writer, getting ideas for research, finding and sourcing relevant literature, appropriately reporting research methods and results according to disciplinary expectations, and developing critical insights into your research findings. A world of academic language and expertise is at your fingertips in Academic English!

This ground-breaking course covers a wealth of useful ideas, tips and language features focusing on each step of the research publication process. Featuring a range of exemplars from high-quality published research sources, and insightful commentary from disciplinary experts across the arts & humanities, social sciences, physical and life sciences, Academic English takes you through the key stages of planning, drafting, writing and revising a research thesis, dissertation or journal article. We cover the main structures and language features of each written section including the introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion and conclusion, with an array of individual and peer activities designed to bridge the gap between what you know and what you can do as a writer. Reflective course assessments test your knowledge of critical disciplinary academic content while guiding you through the academic writing process.

Start today! Join us on Academic English: How to Write a Thesis and take the first step on your journey into becoming a successful academic writer with us!

What's inside

Learning objectives

Module 1: becoming an academic writer
Where to begin as an academic research writer? how can you take an idea and turn it into a research thesis or article? this module explores what it means to be an academic research writer in the 21st century, covering concepts such as identifying current or future problems for research, challenging established facts or beliefs, and understanding and replicating existing research in your discipline. we also explore expert opinions on starting the academic writing process, and the different forms in which academic research writing may appear.
Module 2: understanding academic language and conventions
Academic writing is the means of communicating with members of your discipline or research area. it is therefore important to learn how academics communicate with each other in written form, the language that makes academic writing different from other kinds of writing, and the conventions of citation and referencing used in your particular field of research. this module covers these ideas and more while presenting some useful tools that can help you bridge the gap between non-academic and academic writing forms.
Module 3: planning and writing the introduction and the literature review

Despite some differences, the structure, language and processes used in writing the introduction and literature review sections of a research thesis or article are remarkably similar across disciplines. this module explores how writers can establish their research territory, present the gaps in current knowledge, and formulate their goals and aims, before considering how the work of others can be integrated into your own arguments and stance.
Module 4: exploring the method and results sections
This module covers key aspects of reporting research methods and data types. we explain how to report participant samples, research instruments, experimental procedures and research design, before covering how to report a range of qualitative and quantitative data types includings interview and observation data, surveys, statistical tests, tables and charts.
Module 5: discussing and concluding your findings
Now the research is complete, what does it all mean? this final module helps you find and select the key points of your research findings so that you can summarise what it all means for the academic reader in your discipline or research area. we cover the art of making claims about your findings while considering your study's limitations and ideas for future research.

Module 1: becoming an academic writer
Where to begin as an academic research writer? how can you take an idea and turn it into a research thesis or article? this module explores what it means to be an academic research writer in the 21st century, covering concepts such as identifying current or future problems for research, challenging established facts or beliefs, and understanding and replicating existing research in your discipline. we also explore expert opinions on starting the academic writing process, and the different forms in which academic research writing may appear.
Module 2: understanding academic language and conventions
Academic writing is the means of communicating with members of your discipline or research area. it is therefore important to learn how academics communicate with each other in written form, the language that makes academic writing different from other kinds of writing, and the conventions of citation and referencing used in your particular field of research. this module covers these ideas and more while presenting some useful tools that can help you bridge the gap between non-academic and academic writing forms.
Module 3: planning and writing the introduction and the literature review
Despite some differences, the structure, language and processes used in writing the introduction and literature review sections of a research thesis or article are remarkably similar across disciplines. this module explores how writers can establish their research territory, present the gaps in current knowledge, and formulate their goals and aims, before considering how the work of others can be integrated into your own arguments and stance.
Module 4: exploring the method and results sections
This module covers key aspects of reporting research methods and data types. we explain how to report participant samples, research instruments, experimental procedures and research design, before covering how to report a range of qualitative and quantitative data types includings interview and observation data, surveys, statistical tests, tables and charts.
Module 5: discussing and concluding your findings
Now the research is complete, what does it all mean? this final module helps you find and select the key points of your research findings so that you can summarise what it all means for the academic reader in your discipline or research area. we cover the art of making claims about your findings while considering your study's limitations and ideas for future research.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Develops academic writing and research skills, which are essential for students pursuing careers in academia and research

Provides step-by-step guidance through the research writing process, from planning to drafting and revising

Covers the key stages of writing a research thesis, dissertation, or journal article, including the introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion

Teaches academic writing conventions and language, which are essential for communicating effectively in academic settings

Instructed by experts in academic writing, who provide valuable insights and guidance throughout the course

Includes a range of individual and peer activities to help you apply what you learn to your own writing

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Academic English: How to Write a Thesis with these activities:

Read 'The Craft of Research' by Booth, Colomb, and Williams

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Establishes a solid foundation for understanding research writing conventions and best practices.

View The Craft of Research, Fifth Edition (Chicago... on Amazon

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Read one chapter each of the book's three parts
Complete the exercises at the end of each chapter
Summarize the key points of each chapter

Complete the online grammar and punctuation exercises

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Sharpens grammar and punctuation skills, which are essential for academic writing.

Browse courses on Grammar

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Access the online grammar and punctuation exercises
Complete the exercises on a regular basis

Watch video tutorials on academic writing

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Provides clear and concise guidance on the conventions and best practices of academic writing.

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Search for video tutorials on academic writing
Watch the tutorials and take notes

Four other activities

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Write a research proposal

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Provides an opportunity to apply the principles of academic writing to a specific research topic.

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Identify a research topic and develop a research question
Review the literature on the topic
Develop a research design
Write a research proposal that includes an introduction, literature review, methodology, and expected outcomes

Write a literature review

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Develops the skills necessary to synthesize and evaluate existing research on a specific topic.

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Identify a topic for the literature review
Search for and read relevant scholarly articles
Summarize and synthesize the key findings of the articles
Write a literature review that includes an introduction, body, and conclusion

Participate in a research writing competition

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Provides an opportunity to receive feedback on research writing skills from experts in the field.

Browse courses on Research Writing

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Find a research writing competition that is relevant to your interests
Submit a research proposal or paper to the competition

Join a peer review group

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Facilitates the exchange of constructive feedback on writing, which can help improve writing skills.

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Find a peer review group that is relevant to your field of study
Attend peer review sessions and provide feedback on others' writing
Share your writing with the group for feedback

Career center

Learners who complete Academic English: How to Write a Thesis will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Academic Writer

As an Academic Writer, you will be responsible for writing and editing academic content, such as journal articles, books, and research proposals. This course will help you develop the skills you need to write clear, concise, and persuasive academic writing. You will learn how to research and use sources effectively, how to organize your writing logically, and how to write in a style that is appropriate for your audience.

See salaries and explore the career path for Academic Writer

Technical Writer

As a Technical Writer, you will be responsible for writing and editing technical documentation, such as user manuals, white papers, and marketing materials. This course will help you develop the skills you need to write clear, concise, and accurate technical writing. You will learn how to research and use sources effectively, how to organize your writing logically, and how to write in a style that is appropriate for your audience.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer

Content Writer

As a Content Writer, you will be responsible for writing and editing content for websites, blogs, and other digital platforms. This course will help you develop the skills you need to write engaging and informative content that will attract and retain readers. You will learn how to research and use sources effectively, how to organize your writing logically, and how to write in a style that is appropriate for your audience.

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Grant Writer

As a Grant Writer, you will be responsible for writing and editing grants for non-profit organizations and government agencies. This course will help you develop the skills you need to write clear, concise, and persuasive grants that will win funding for your organization. You will learn how to research and use sources effectively, how to organize your writing logically, and how to write in a style that is appropriate for your audience.

See salaries and explore the career path for Grant Writer

Proposal Writer

As a Proposal Writer, you will be responsible for writing and editing proposals for grants, contracts, and other funding opportunities. This course will help you develop the skills you need to write clear, concise, and persuasive proposals that will win funding for your organization. You will learn how to research and use sources effectively, how to organize your writing logically, and how to write in a style that is appropriate for your audience.

See salaries and explore the career path for Proposal Writer

Journalist

As a Journalist, you will be responsible for writing and editing news stories, feature articles, and other content for print, online, and broadcast media. This course will help you develop the skills you need to write clear, concise, and engaging journalism. You will learn how to research and use sources effectively, how to organize your writing logically, and how to write in a style that is appropriate for your audience.

See salaries and explore the career path for Journalist

Editor

As an Editor, you will be responsible for editing and proofreading written content for a variety of audiences. This course will help you develop the skills you need to edit and proofread effectively. You will learn how to identify and correct errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation, and how to improve the clarity and coherence of written content.

See salaries and explore the career path for Editor

Science Writer

As a Science Writer, you will be responsible for writing and editing science-related content for a variety of audiences, including the general public, scientists, and policymakers. This course will help you develop the skills you need to write clear, concise, and accurate science writing. You will learn how to research and use sources effectively, how to organize your writing logically, and how to write in a style that is appropriate for your audience.

See salaries and explore the career path for Science Writer

Research Scientist

As a Research Scientist, you will be responsible for conducting research and writing scientific reports and papers. This course will help you develop the skills you need to write clear, concise, and accurate scientific writing. You will learn how to research and use sources effectively, how to organize your writing logically, and how to write in a style that is appropriate for your audience.

See salaries and explore the career path for Research Scientist

Medical Writer

As a Medical Writer, you will be responsible for writing and editing medical content, such as patient education materials, drug information leaflets, and clinical trial protocols. This course will help you develop the skills you need to write clear, concise, and accurate medical writing. You will learn how to research and use sources effectively, how to organize your writing logically, and how to write in a style that is appropriate for your audience.

See salaries and explore the career path for Medical Writer

Business Writer

As a Business Writer, you will be responsible for writing and editing business documents, such as marketing plans, financial reports, and presentations. This course will help you develop the skills you need to write clear, concise, and persuasive business writing. You will learn how to research and use sources effectively, how to organize your writing logically, and how to write in a style that is appropriate for your audience.

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Legal Writer

As a Legal Writer, you will be responsible for writing and editing legal documents, such as contracts, wills, and pleadings. This course will help you develop the skills you need to write clear, concise, and accurate legal writing. You will learn how to research and use sources effectively, how to organize your writing logically, and how to write in a style that is appropriate for your audience.

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Professor

As a Professor, you will be responsible for teaching and mentoring students, conducting research, and publishing scholarly articles. This course will help you develop the skills you need to write clear, concise, and persuasive academic writing. You will learn how to research and use sources effectively, how to organize your writing logically, and how to write in a style that is appropriate for your audience.

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Archivist

As an Archivist, you will be responsible for preserving and managing historical documents and artifacts. This course will help you develop the skills you need to write clear, concise, and accurate archival descriptions and reports. You will learn how to research and use sources effectively, how to organize your writing logically, and how to write in a style that is appropriate for your audience.

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Librarian

As a Librarian, you will be responsible for helping people find and access information. This course will help you develop the skills you need to write clear, concise, and informative library materials. You will learn how to research and use sources effectively, how to organize your writing logically, and how to write in a style that is appropriate for your audience.

See salaries and explore the career path for Librarian