Dissertation

noun

1. A lengthy, formal treatise, especially one written by a candidate for the doctoral degree at a university; a thesis.
2. A set or formal discourse.
3. A written essay, treatise, or disquisition: as, Newton's dissertations on the prophecies.
4. A formal or elaborate argumentative discourse, oral or written; a disquisition; an essay; a discussion.

   "Dissertations on the Prophecies"

5. A formal exposition of a subject, especially a research paper that students write in order to complete the requirements for a doctoral degree; a thesis.