If you are a postgraduate student at Kenya Methodist University (KEMU), one of the most important milestones in your academic journey is preparing and submitting your thesis, dissertation, or research proposal. To maintain consistency, professionalism, and academic integrity, KEMU has laid out specific thesis and dissertation formatting guidelines that every student must follow. This article breaks down the KEMU thesis format, helping you understand exactly what is required for a smooth approval and submission process.
General Formatting Guidelines for KEMU Thesis and Dissertation
All KEMU postgraduate theses and dissertations must adhere to a professional academic standard:
Paper size & quality: A4 white paper (80–100gsm)
Font & size: Times New Roman, size 12, in black ink
Margins: 35mm (left), 30mm (top, bottom, right)
Spacing: Double spacing for main text; single spacing for references, captions, and long quotations
Pagination: Preliminary pages in Roman numerals (i, ii, iii), main body in Arabic numbers (1, 2, 3)
Binding colors: Maroon (Doctorate), Blue (Masters and Postgraduate Diploma)
These rules ensure uniformity and a professional presentation of postgraduate research across the university.
Structure of Preliminary Pages
The KEMU thesis structure begins with front matter, also known as supplementary pages. These include:
Title Page: Contains the thesis title (in capital letters), candidate’s name, degree, and submission date.
Declaration Page: Signed by both the student and supervisors to confirm originality.
Dedication and Acknowledgements: Short sections with strict word limits (25 words for dedication, 150 for acknowledgments).
Abstract: A concise summary of the research, not exceeding 500 words.
Table of Contents, List of Tables, and List of Figures: Each on a separate page.
These sections set the tone for the research and demonstrate adherence to KEMU postgraduate guidelines.
Proposal vs Thesis at KEMU
A key distinction exists between KEMU research proposals and KEMU postgraduate theses.
KEMU Research Proposal Format
The proposal is written in future tense and usually includes three main chapters:
Introduction: Background, statement of the problem, purpose, objectives, research questions/hypotheses, significance, assumptions, and definitions.
Literature Review: Critical review of existing studies, identification of research gaps, and presentation of theoretical and conceptual frameworks.
Methodology: Research design, target population, sampling, data collection tools, validity and reliability checks, ethical considerations, and data analysis plan.
The proposal also includes a work plan, budget, references (APA style), and appendices.
KEMU Thesis/Dissertation Format
Once the research is complete, the thesis is written in past tense. It contains the first three chapters of the proposal plus two additional chapters:
Chapter Four: Results and Discussion – Presentation and interpretation of findings, supported by tables, figures, and literature comparison.
Chapter Five: Summary, Conclusions, and Recommendations – A recap of the study, conclusions based on objectives, and actionable recommendations (including suggestions for further research).
Unlike the proposal, the KEMU dissertation format does not include a work plan or budget since the research has already been conducted.
Referencing Style and Academic Integrity
KEMU mandates the APA citation style for referencing, ensuring that all sources are properly acknowledged. Depending on the discipline, a department may recommend another referencing style, but this must be approved by the Board of Postgraduate Studies (BPS).
Additionally, every thesis includes a copyright page, which restricts unauthorized reproduction or distribution.
Why Following the KEMU Thesis Format Matters
Adhering to the Kenya Methodist University postgraduate thesis guidelines ensures that your work meets academic standards, avoids unnecessary delays in approval, and reflects scholarly professionalism. It also improves the readability and credibility of your research, making it more impactful for both examiners and future researchers.
Final Thoughts
The KEMU postgraduate thesis, dissertation, and proposal format provides a structured path for presenting high-quality academic research. By following these guidelines—right from formatting and referencing to structuring chapters—you will not only meet university requirements but also showcase your work in the best possible way.
If you are preparing your thesis at KEMU, be sure to consult your supervisor regularly and strictly follow the official formatting rules. Doing so will streamline your academic journey and strengthen the quality of your contribution to postgraduate research in Kenya.
