Designing a thesis cover: create a cover that fits you

Designing the front cover of your thesis is essentially the same as creating a book cover. You’ve been busy with many things over the past few years, but probably not with graphic design. Yet the cover of your thesis is the first thing the reader sees. It creates a positive first impression. Or not…

In this blog you’ll find practical tips and inspiration for designing your thesis cover. From content and technical specifications to creative ideas and software. This way you’ll make a great first impression with your thesis.

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What belongs on a thesis cover?

Front cover

On the front cover of a thesis you typically find the title, the subtitle and the author’s name. Additionally, you can add a beautiful image to attract attention. This can be a stock photo, your own photo or an abstract design that aligns with your research.

Some PhD candidates at universities such as the University of Twente, Radboud University Nijmegen or the University of Amsterdam choose to place their university or faculty logo on the front cover. This is not mandatory, but can give a professional appearance.

Spine

The title and author’s name are often also placed on the spine of a thesis. The spine is important when your thesis is on a bookshelf: this is the only part that’s visible then.

When you design the cover yourself, you need to take the spine thickness into account. By entering the number of pages, paper type and binding method, our spine thickness calculator calculates the spine thickness for you.

Back cover

You can also choose to place a short introduction on the back cover. This can be a summary of your research, a quote from your thesis or a personal message. Additionally, you can add a logo and/or image to the back.

The possibilities for your thesis cover are endless. Make sure it fits you and the subject of your research.

Inspiration for your thesis cover

Cover with stock photo

Can’t find a suitable image? Then you can download a royalty-free photo. Stock photos are images you can use for publications, provided you comply with the license terms.

Important: not all stock photos are free and not all free stock photos may be used for commercial purposes. Always check the license.

Websites for free royalty-free stock photos:

• Unsplash – large collection of high-quality photos
• Pexels – extensive library with photos and videos
• Pixabay – photos, illustrations and vector images

Paid stock photos can be found on Shutterstock, Adobe Stock and iStock.

Cover with your own photo

Your own photo gives a personal touch to your thesis and can be a visual metaphor for your research. Think of a photo of your research location, a close-up of your research subject or a symbolic image that aligns with your research theme.

Abstract cover

Do you have abstract research? Then you can choose an abstract design with graphs or figures from your research, color blocks and geometric shapes, or typographic designs. Abstract covers are suitable for scientific research where a literal image doesn’t fit well.

Want more inspiration? View our examples of previously printed theses.

Technical specifications for your thesis cover

Image quality

For a sharp and professional appearance, it’s important that your image is high quality:

✦ Minimum 300 dpi – this ensures a sharp print
✦ Format – the image must be large enough to cover the entire cover (front + spine + back)
✦ File formats – PDF, JPG or PNG (PDF is preferred)
✦ Color profile – CMYK for print (not RGB)

Fonts and readability

When choosing a font, it’s important that it’s easily readable. Nowadays, fonts without serifs (such as Arial, Helvetica or Calibri) are used more often, as these are easier for our brain to read.

The most common size is 10 pt for body text on the back cover. For the title there are no fixed rules. Make sure the image remains clearly visible.

Tip: use a maximum of 2 different fonts on your cover.

Calculating spine thickness

The spine thickness of your thesis depends on the number of pages, paper type (Biotop, HVO, Silk) and binding method. Use our spine thickness calculator to calculate the exact spine thickness. This way you avoid surprises during the print proof.

Software for designing your thesis cover

InDesign (professional)

InDesign is a professional layout program often used by graphic designers. It offers complete control over layout and typography and is suitable for complex layouts.

InDesign is available through an Adobe Creative Cloud subscription. There are also free alternatives such as Scribus and Affinity Publisher.

Canva (user-friendly)

Canva is a user-friendly online tool for graphic design. It offers many templates and is suitable for beginners. Make sure the export meets the technical requirements for print (300 dpi and CMYK color profile).

Word (not recommended)

Word is not designed for graphic design and offers limited control over layout. For a professional thesis cover we therefore recommend other software.

Thesis cover design

We’re happy to help you design your thesis cover! We can do this in several ways:

Option 1: Design it yourself

You design the cover of your thesis yourself. Take into account the delivery specifications and margins. These are described in our information booklet. Can’t figure something out? Let us know and we’ll discuss it together.

Check out handy downloads and templates here. 

Option 2: Gildeprint handles the layout

Gildeprint takes care of the cover layout. You provide us with an image for the cover and inform us about additional elements. We’ll create a beautiful design in consultation with you.

Option 3: Creative design process

We start a creative design process for a stunning cover. We connect you with one of our experienced designers in Enschede who will bring your wishes to life.

View more about our thesis design services here.

 

Frequently asked questions about thesis covers

How much does designing a thesis cover cost?
This depends on the chosen option. If you do it yourself, you only pay for software costs. Professional design at Gildeprint starts from €150, depending on complexity.

Can I use any image for my thesis cover?
No, pay attention to copyrights and licenses. Only use images for which you have permission, such as royalty-free stock photos or your own photos.

How large should my image be?
Minimum 300 dpi. The format depends on your thesis format, but the image must be large enough to cover the entire cover, including 3 mm bleed on all sides.

Can I adjust the cover later?
Yes, you can make adjustments until the print proof. After approval of the print proof, no changes can be made.

Do I need to place my university logo on the cover?
This is not mandatory, unless your university requires it. Universities such as the University of Groningen, Utrecht University or VU Amsterdam sometimes have guidelines for using their logo. Check this with your PhD committee.

Thesis printing in the Netherlands

At Gildeprint in Enschede, you can count on high-quality thesis printing and professional cover design. We work with modern inkjet printing presses and deliver quickly and reliably. Whether you’re completing your PhD at the University of Twente, Radboud University Nijmegen, University of Groningen or another university in the Netherlands – we’re happy to help.

Want to know exactly what your thesis cover will cost?
Request a free quote and receive a personal price indication within 24 hours.

👉 Request your free quote here

Have questions about designing your thesis cover? Feel free to contact us. We’re happy to help!