capstone project for education

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Capstone Project

Also called a capstone experience , culminating project , or  senior exhibition , among many other terms, a capstone project is a multifaceted assignment that serves as a culminating academic and intellectual experience for students, typically during their final year of high school or middle school, or at the end of an academic program or learning-pathway experience . While similar in some ways to a college thesis, capstone projects may take a wide variety of forms, but most are long-term investigative projects that culminate in a final product, presentation, or performance. For example, students may be asked to select a topic, profession, or social problem that interests them, conduct research on the subject, maintain a portfolio of findings or results, create a final product demonstrating their learning acquisition or conclusions (a paper, short film, or multimedia presentation, for example), and give an oral presentation on the project to a panel of teachers, experts, and community members who collectively evaluate its quality.

Capstone projects are generally designed to encourage students to think critically, solve challenging problems, and develop skills such as oral communication, public speaking, research skills, media literacy, teamwork, planning, self-sufficiency, or goal setting—i.e., skills that will help prepare them for college, modern careers, and adult life. In most cases, the projects are also interdisciplinary, in the sense that they require students to apply skills or investigate issues across many different subject areas or domains of knowledge. Capstone projects also tend to encourage students to connect their projects to community issues or problems, and to integrate outside-of-school learning experiences, including activities such as interviews, scientific observations, or internships.

While capstone projects can take a wide variety of forms from school to school, a few examples will help to illustrate both the concept and the general educational intentions:

• Writing, directing, and filming a public-service announcement that will be aired on public-access television
• Designing and building a product, computer program, app, or robot to address a specific need, such as assisting the disabled
• Interning at a nonprofit organization or a legislator’s office to learn more about strategies and policies intended to address social problems, such as poverty, hunger, or homelessness
• Conducting a scientific study over several months or a year to determine the ecological or environmental impact of changes to a local habitat
• Researching an industry or market, and creating a viable business plan for a proposed company that is then “pitched” to a panel of local business leaders

For related discussions, see authentic learning , portfolio ,  relevance , and 21st century skills .

As a school-reform strategy, capstone projects are often an extension of more systemic school-improvement models or certain teaching philosophies or strategies, such as 21st century skills, community-based learning , proficiency-based learning , project-based learning , or student-centered learning , to name just a few.

The following are a few representative educational goals of capstone projects:

• Increasing the academic rigor of the senior year. Historically, high school students have taken a lighter course load or left school early during their twelfth-grade year, which can contribute to learning loss or insufficient preparation for first-year college work. A more academically and intellectually challenging senior year, filled with demanding but stimulating learning experiences such as a capstone project, the reasoning goes, can reduce senior-year learning loss , keep students in school longer (or otherwise engaged in learning), and increase preparation for college and work.
• Increasing student motivation and engagement. The creative nature of capstone projects, which are typically self-selected by students and based on personal interests, can strengthen student motivation to learn, particularly during a time (twelfth grade) when academic motivation and engagement tend to wane.
• Increasing educational and career aspirations. By involving students in long-term projects that intersect with personal interests and professional aspirations, capstone projects can help students with future planning, goal setting, postsecondary decisions, and career exploration—particularly for those students who may be unfocused, uncertain, or indecisive about their post-graduation plans and aspirations.
• Improving student confidence and self-perceptions. Capstone projects typically require students to take on new responsibilities, be more self-directed, set goals, and follow through on commitments. Completing such projects can boost self-esteem, build confidence, and teach students about the value of accomplishment. Students may also become role models for younger students, which can cultivate leadership abilities and have positive cultural effects within a school.
• Demonstrating learning and proficiency. As one of many educational strategies broadly known as demonstrations of learning , capstone projects can be used to determine student proficiency (in the acquisition of knowledge and skills) or readiness (for college and work) by requiring them to demonstrate what they have learned over the course of their project

In recent years, the capstone-project concept has also entered the domain of state policy. In Rhode Island, for example, the state’s high school graduation requirements stipulate that seniors must complete two out of three assessment options, one of which can be a capstone project. Several other states require students to complete some form of senior project, while in other states such projects may be optional, and students who complete a capstone project may receive special honors or diploma recognition.

Most criticism of or debate about capstone projects is not focused on the strategy itself, or its intrinsic or potential educational value, but rather on the quality of its execution—i.e., capstone projects tend to be criticized when they are poorly designed or reflect low academic standards, or when students are allowed to complete relatively superficial projects of low educational value. In addition, if teachers and students consider capstone projects to be a formality, lower-quality products typically result. And if the projects reflect consistently low standards, quality, and educational value year after year, educators, students, parents, and community members may come to view capstone projects as a waste of time or resources.

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What is a Capstone Project in College?

The capstone project in college is the apogee, or completion marker, of a student's coursework leading to the culmination of their program with a degree in their chosen field of study.The original definition of a capstone focuses on the actual stone placed at the top of a wall or building, marking the successful completion of the structure. It's a significant and celebrated piece of architecture, considered to be the most important of an entire construction project.

"(Capstone projects are) the apex of all a student's work done throughout their college career," said Dr. Jeff Czarnec , a social sciences adjunct online and on-campus at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU). Retired after 23 years in law enforcement, Czarnec served as an associate dean of criminal justice and social sciences at SNHU for nearly a decade. He now leverages his extensive background to teach social sciences, enriching the academic experience with his practical insights. 

When entering a capstone course, there's an expectation that you have all the necessary skills and knowledge to be successful. 

You have the opportunity to pick a research topic that is of interest to you and run with it. "After having to write research papers in all of their courses prior to (the capstone), the task is not one to dread, but to enjoy. It is their time to shine as students and to enjoy the journey," MacCarty said.

A capstone course is more than a potential degree requirement. It can serve as an opportunity to demonstrate knowledge mastery and creative thinking, which may help you stand out to potential employers.

What is Involved in a Capstone Project?

Each university, program and instructor may have different requirements — or models — for a capstone project. According to Czarnec, a general design might first include selecting a topic of interest that the instructor will approve. 

Czarnec said that, depending on the program, a capstone may include anything from a video presentation or an architectural model to an art exhibit or short film; however, it almost always includes a paper demonstrating an introduction, theory, evaluation, research and individual issues relevant to the proposal.

"Students are expected to be ready to enter the world as professionals in their field upon completion of the capstone course," said MacCarty.

The time it takes to complete a capstone project usually depends on the course's length. If you're in an undergraduate online program at SNHU, for instance, your capstone course would take eight weeks to complete, Czarnec said. 

Capstone courses are research-based, and you can choose your topic early on, allowing you more freedom to conduct research  independently. Capstone topics usually align with a program's specific disciplines, too.

For example, in the social sciences realm, "our focus is on human behavior and cognition, which may be different from a capstone course in business or STEM," MacCarty said.

Find Your Program

Types of capstones.

There are many types of capstone projects that you could consider, and they vary from learner to learner, Czarnec said. "Some will investigate issues or phenomenon that they are familiar with either professionally, personally or courtesy of a discipline-related source, such (as) a police or human services agency," he said. 

In a nutshell, a rough outline of a capstone, according to Czarnec, may look something like this:

• Select a topic and have it approved by the instructor
• Evaluate relevance to the proposal
• Perform necessary research
• Present results in the agreed-upon fashion

Czarnec said that if you're looking for a capstone topic, you may consider focusing on an area you're passionate about or you could also try to ask you instructor for some assistance. For example, Czarnec said that he can act as a guide, mentor, editor and research resource for his students to help them focus and narrow their search for a capstone topic.

Are Capstone Projects Difficult?

"Not necessarily," said Czarnec. "It does force you to be efficient and very specific to topic. No fluff. Straight forward. Razor sharp." 

The capstone is more of an opportunity to catch your breath, he said, and to retrace and pull up what you have learned in a more stress-free environment .

"It helps validate students as learners," Czarnec said.

Depending on the major and course requirements, there may be opportunities to connect with outside contacts, not only to assist with the capstone project research and problem statement but also to provide a networking community .

"Not every research project is, nor should they be, the same," Czarnec said. "Everyone has a different approach."

What is the Difference Between a Thesis and a Capstone Project?

A capstone is similar to a thesis in that the starting point involves the strengths needed for a thesis or dissertation work. For example, you may need to consider the skeletal structure of research and form your theory, hypothesis and problem statement.

"While a capstone is certainly a scholarly piece of work and does share some aspects of a thesis, the time and detail that is required of a master's thesis is greater," MacCarty said. 

A capstone paper may be 25 pages, whereas a thesis could be 100 or more. If you choose to further your education beyond a bachelor's degree, the capstone project could be an invaluable tool in preparing for a graduate thesis.

Capstone Projects are About Your Success

Capstones of all programs are leading you to the end game, Czarnec said. The goal is to develop you into a well-rounded thinker who can pull their work together in a coherent, articulate, well-organized fashion while considering the demands of the profession or vocation you're interested in.

The focus and intent of a capstone should be to create an effective device to assess and measure all that you've learned throughout your program in an aggregate fashion so you can demonstrate your life-long vocational skills in a nice, neat package. 

"My goal is for students to leave the program confident about their skills and abilities," said Czarnec.

MacCarty said that capstone courses should be structured to support your success in fulfilling program requirements and allow you the opportunity to showcase your academic abilities and skills gained throughout your degree program.

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Laurie Smith '14 is a writer, editor and communications specialist. Connect with her on LinkedIn .

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6 Tips for Engaging Capstone Projects

Rather than creating a year-in-review capstone project, consider having students synthesize and personalize what they’ve learned, bringing it to a new level.

It’s that time of the year, the race to the finish, only weeks until school ends for the summer (at least for many of us). With the pressures of testing behind us, we often have a bit more freedom to create curriculum and activities for students. We can try out new ideas, give students more choice in what they want to learn, and celebrate the learning that we've accomplished this year. One way that many educators like to do these things is through capstone projects, year-end culminations that often invite students to engage in choosing what they want to learn, as well as how they learn it. Capstone projects are a great tool for personalizing learning, and they're effective for creating even more student engagement. Here are some tips to create excellent capstone projects.

Ensure "Main Course, Not Dessert"

This is always a good reminder. While capstone projects often draw on the entire year's learning, it's important to pose this question to students as well as reflecting upon it ourselves as educators: What new learning will occur in this capstone project? This is key to ensuring that a capstone project isn't simply a fun activity (although that's still a good intention), and it helps in creating a project that's more challenging and truly focused on new learning and experiences. This new learning could be in a different context or topic from what the class has done so far, it might require a variety of skills that they haven't previously combined, or it could be a synthesis of sorts. Reflect on how you can ensure that there will be new learning in your capstone projects.

Take It To Another Level

Projects should focus on depth, not breadth. If you have the ability to allow students choice in what they learn, consider having them revisit a previously learned concept, topic, or skill. To ensure not only engagement but also "Main Course," create rubrics with students that focus on their going deeper into the content. Instead of "meeting standard," focus the assessment and learning on "exceeding standard." When students engage with a challenge, we should take them beyond the opportunity to review learning by pushing the learning even farther in a capstone project.

More Voice and Choice

This is nothing new, but we can always think of new ways to offer choice to our students. At the end of the year, after we've pressed through most of our required curriculum and standards, we may have some wiggle room on what students can learn. We might offer choice in one way, but not in another. Perhaps we want to spiral review a writing skill for all students, but offer them a choice in what history topic they want to learn about. Or we might need students to learn a math concept that we haven't yet covered in the curriculum, but they can choose how they want to learn it and connect that concept to the real world. Have students make personal, meaningful choices. See my previous blog about voice and choice for ideas about how to create more engagement.

Make a Difference

One of my favorite ways of taking capstone projects to another level is through service and making a difference. When students see that their work matters, they will be engaged. There are, of course, lots of opportunities to make an impact outside of the walls of the classroom, whether in the community or globally. There are also great ways for students to make a difference in their own lives once they understand the personal impact that's possible. Start by asking then how they want to make a difference in their capstone projects.

Tell the Full Story Through Assessment

Often, capstone projects involve what could be called a portfolio of student learning, which includes many steps in their yearlong journey. These assessments, graded or not, are valuable artifacts that serve as a photo album of a learning continuum, rather than simple snapshots representing individual moments of learning. Capstone projects are about growth, and both teachers and students can use assessments from the capstone project as well as earlier in the year to celebrate the growth in learning. Students, parents, and teachers deserve to see this growth in order to be proud of their learning from the entire year as well as during the capstone project.

Experiment With "No Grades"

Often we use grades as a way to get students to learn rather than addressing a root problem -- our students are not engaged. While you might want to grade students on their work, you might also try the experiment of moving students away from grades as a motivator, and instead focus on the learning. Rather grading every part of the capstone project, consider grading only the capstone component. This is also in ideal place to start the conversation with students about how they want to be and should be graded. Consider using capstone projects to start a culture shift away from grades and toward learning.

I love implementing and watching students implement capstone projects. I'm inspired by the ways that teachers structure these projects and by the amazing learning that students share. Capstone projects are truly an opportunity to create meaningful learning along with powerful engagement and impact. How do you create engaging capstone projects?

Education Capstone Project

The Education Capstone Project is a course requirement for the Educational Fieldwork, Research, and Project Capstone subfield. For the Capstone requirement, students must take 3 units of EDUC W144 for an in-depth fieldwork experience. The three units will be taken during one semester, which translates into 8 hours of fieldwork per week at a school site of your choice and 1.5 hours of weekly virtual coursework. The student's fieldwork and research will culminate into a final capstone project. 

Students who switch from the Education Minor to the Educational Sciences major are still required to take EDUC W144 for 3 units regardless of the amount of fieldwork units they might have earned from other fieldwork courses (i.e., EDUC197, EDUC190, etc.). While these fieldwork units are valuable, they do not satisfy the capstone course requirement. Additionally, students who have previously taken EDUC W144 for 1 or 2 units are still expected to take EDUC W144 for the full 3-unit capstone.

Fieldwork units from outside of the Education department will not count towards the capstone requirement. 

EDUC 150.002 Teachers of Color in the United States (3 units) is the only other accepted capstone course. This course can be taken instead of EDUC W144 to satisfy the Project Capstone requirement. 

Spring 2024 Note for current Ed Minors: 

Units through EDUC 197 will NOT count towards the Education Major Capstone requirement. There are no exceptions.

Students who have taken EDUC W144 for variable units (fewer than the 3 unit capstone) Spring 2024 or earlier may count these units towards the Capstone requirement. These students will be allowed to take the remaining 1-2 units of EDUC W144 needed to complete the 3 unit requirement. After Spring 2024, ONLY the 3 unit offering of EDUC W144 will satisfy the Capstone requirement.

Please reach out to [email protected] with any questions. 

Capstone Projects

The Capstone is a culminating academic project experience that is completed within the confines of a semester-length course. Several Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) fields either require a capstone or offer the option to pursue one. In addition to the information below, review  Guide to the ALM Capstone Project website.

Types of Capstones

We offer two forms of capstone: Capstone Course (faculty directed) and Capstone Independent Project (student directed).

Capstone Course–Faculty Directed

For the ALM fields of anthropology, biotechnology, creative writing and literature, computer science, cybersecurity, data science, English, government, history, international relations, math for teaching, psychology, religion, and systems engineering capstones are courses designed by faculty members who bring together, in a structured syllabus, all the key learning outcomes of the field of study.

Our cybersecurity, data science, and computer science capstones are team-based projects that have a real-world industry partner as the client for your research.

While our creative writing capstone allows for ample room to work on individual artistic projects, but with the added benefit of weekly engagement with peers and the instructor–a supportive writer’s community.

Every effort is made to offer the same precapstone/capstone topics each year (e.g., human development, policy analysis, and social justice); however, topics are subject to change annually.

Good academic standing. You must be good academic standing to register for the capstone. If not, you’ll need to complete additional courses to bring your GPA up to the 3.0 minimum prior to registration. For detailed course description information, including specific registration requirements, such as credit minimums and academic standing requirements, use the Degree Course Search .

Tip:  Register on the first day of early degree-candidate registration to obtain a seat in these limited-enrollment courses.

Precapstones

The ALM fields of anthropology, biotechnology, computer science, creative writing and literature, cybersecurity, data science, English, government, history, international relations, psychology, religion and systems engineering have a required precapstone course that must be completed with a grade of B- or higher.

Mandatory Sequencing of Precapstones/Capstones. You enroll in the precapstone and capstone courses in back-to-back semesters (fall/spring), with the same instructor, and in your final academic year.

Due to heavy workload demands, all your other degree requirements must be fulfilled prior to capstone registration. The capstone must be taken alone as your one-and-only remaining degree requirement. You cannot register in any other courses along with the capstone.

It is critical that you draw upon your entire ALM training to produce a project worthy of a Harvard degree by committing to full-time study in the capstone.

Engaging in Scholarly Conversation . For precapstones in anthropology, English, government, history, international relations, psychology or religion, you need to have completed Engaging in Scholarly Conversation prior to precapstone registration. If you were admitted after 9/1/2023, Engaging in Scholarly Conversation (A and B) is required; if admitted before 9/1/2023, this series is encouraged.

Attempts . You have a maximum of two attempts at the precapstone course to earn the required grade of B- or higher. If after two attempts, you have not fulfilled the requirement (a WD grade is considered an attempt), your degree candidacy will expire. If by not passing the precapstone you fall into poor academic standing, you will need to take additional degree-applicable courses to return to good standing before enrolling in the precapstone for your second and final time.

The second attempt policy is only available if your five-year, degree-completion deadline allows for more time.  If you attempt to complete the precapstone in your final year and don’t pass (including a WD grade), your candidacy will automatically expire. 

For detailed course description information, visit the Degree Course Search .

Capstone Independent Project–Student Directed

For global development practice, digital media design, journalism, museum studies, and sustainability, capstones are client-based or independent research projects focused on a current issue or problem that has become compelling for you during your course of study. The project represents your academic passion and professional interest. You complete the research individually (journalism) or in a classroom setting with fellow candidates (all other fields).

Journalism candidates should scroll down to Journalism Capstone. The following applies to:

• Global Development Practice
• Digital media design
• Museum studies
• Sustainability

Registration in the capstone for the above fields has the following prerequisites: (1) your specific research project must be approved several months in advance (prior to enrolling in the precapstone tutorial), (2) you must successfully complete the precapstone tutorial, and (3) the capstone must be your final, one-and-only remaining degree requirement. You cannot register for any other courses along with the capstone.

There are two major steps to obtain project approval.

Step one:  obtain advice right away. Once admitted to the program, meet with your research advisor early and often about your initial capstone research interests. He or she can provide support as well as course selection advice as you develop preliminary ideas. Please note that while every effort is made to support your capstone interest, guidance is not available for all possible projects. Therefore, revision or a change of capstone topic may be necessary.

• For museum studies your capstone will have a main focus on (1) business of museums, (2) collections care, (3) exhibition design, (4) museum education, or (5) technology. Whatever focus you choose, you must have at least two courses completed in that area before enrolling in the precapstone tutorial. If not, your enrollment will not be approved.
• Due to the highly technical nature of their projects, digital media students must meet with their research advisor, Dr. Hongming Wang, to discuss their capstone topics according to the following schedule. Between January 2 and February 15 for summer precapstone and between May 1 and July for the fall precapstone. Appointments can be scheduled through the Degree Candidate Portal. 
• Step two:  register for the noncredit tutorial. The semester before capstone registration (no earlier), you are required to (1) enroll in the noncredit Precapstone tutorial, (2) visit the  Guide to the ALM Capstone Project website  to read through the tutorial guidelines, and (3) submit your prework by the required deadline (see below in bold).

Prework demonstrates that you have done enough prior reading and research on your topic to begin the capstone proposal process. Registration in the tutorial is limited to degree candidates who submit quality prework. If your prework is not approved, you will need to spend time revising in order to re-submit for the next offering of the tutorial, if your five-year, degree-completion deadline allows.

Once registered in the noncredit tutorial, you will receive guidance and mentoring while you iterate on your individual capstone proposal until the document reaches a satisfactory quality. The tutorial is not a course in the traditional sense. You work independently on your proposal with your research advisor by submitting multiple proposal drafts and scheduling individual appointments (ordinarily, during the hours of 9-5). You need to make self-directed progress on the proposal without special prompting from the research advisor.  While the tutorial is noncredit, your due diligence throughout the semester is required.

If you do not have a proposal that is close to being approved by the semester’s withdrawal deadline, you’ll need to withdraw from the tutorial, delay capstone registration, and re-take the capstone proposal tutorial again in a future semester, if your five-year, degree-completion deadline allows.

• For the fall capstone, you complete the proposal tutorial during the prior summer term: Register for the Summer Precapstone tutorial March 1. Submit the first draft of the preproposal between  March 1 and May 15 . Actively participate in the tutorial during the summer and end the term with an approved proposal. Register and complete capstone in fall.
• For the spring capstone, you complete the proposal tutorial during the prior fall term: Register for the Fall Precapstone tutorial when registration opens in mid-July. Submit the first draft of the preproposal between  July 18 and August 1 . Actively participate in the tutorial during the fall and end the term with an approved proposal. Register and complete the capstone in spring.
• For the summer capstone, you complete the proposal tutorial during the prior spring: Register for the spring Precapstone tutorial when registration open in early November. Submit the first draft of the preproposal between  November 7 and January 2 . Actively participate in the Capstone Proposal Tutorial during the spring and end the term with an approved proposal. Register and complete capstone in summer. This sequence (spring tutorial, summer capstone) is required for international students who need a student visa.

Please note that not all fields offer a capstone each term. Refer to your field’s Degree Course Search for the schedule. 

Human Subjects

If your capstone will involve the use of human subjects (e.g., subject interviews, surveys, observations), review the Human Subjects section on the  Guide to the ALM Capstone Project  website  to learn Harvard University’s Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval process.

Journalism Capstone

Over the course of the capstone semester for  JOUR E-599 , you’ll conduct an in-depth investigation of a single topic and emerge with a portfolio of new work suitable for publishing, posting, or broadcasting. The portfolio requires you to produce several (at least three) related stories on one topic written specifically for the capstone course. (No prior work can be used.) The stories are completed over the course of one semester.

You can register for the capstone once you complete 36 credits, and you work independently to complete the project within a semester time frame. The capstone can be, and often is, completed at a distance.

To begin the capstone approval process, you schedule an appointment with your research advisor, June Erlick, ( [email protected]) , to discuss your capstone ideas. 

While every effort is made to support your capstone interest, guidance is not available for all possible projects. Therefore, revisions or a change of capstone topic may be necessary before it is approved.  As in all traditional journalism, projects must take a fair and balanced view by bringing in differing points of view.  Projects should not be one-sided or take an advocacy stance.

Once a topic is approved, you submit the first draft of your capstone proposal. (Visit the  Guide to the ALM Capstone Project website  to read the specific guidelines for Crafting the Capstone Proposal). Ms. Erlick supports you through the fine tuning of the proposal and works with the Journalism program office to identify a capstone director. Once approved, capstone topics cannot be changed. In the unlikely event that you cannot continue with the project as approved, you must request and receive written permission to pursue a new topic from Ms. Erlick.  

A capstone director is a journalism instructor or professional in the field who has expertise relevant to your capstone topic. The final decision about who will serve as director is made by the Journalism program office; however, you are welcome to request a particular instructor. However, we ask that you  not  contact an instructor directly prior to capstone approval.

You are expected to work independently on your project with support and direction from the director. The capstone director will meet with you several times over the semester to answer questions, discuss your progress, read drafts, and offer feedback. The director also grades the final project.

Journalism Timeline

• Fall capstone: Meet to discuss capstone ideas by May 1. Submit first draft of capstone proposal by June 1.
• Spring capstone: Meet to discuss capstone ideas by September 1. Submit first draft of capstone proposal by October 1.
• Summer capstone: Meet to discuss capstone ideas by February 1. Submit first draft of capstone proposal by March 1

Final Capstone Grade

You need to earn a grade of B- or higher to earn degree credit for the capstone. If you earn a grade below a B– (including a WD), you will need to petition the Administrative Board for permission to enroll in the capstone for one final time. The Board only reviews cases in which extenuating circumstances prevented the successful completion of the capstone.

Moreover, the petition process is only available if your five-year, degree-completion deadline allows for more time. Your candidacy will automatically expire if you do not successfully complete the capstone requirement by your required deadline.

If approved for a second attempt, you may be required to repeat the precapstone course or the non-credit precapstone tutorial. Please note that you cannot choose a different precapstone/capstone sequence to gain additional (more than two) attempts at fulfilling the capstone requirement for your degree.

If by not passing the capstone you fall into poor academic standing, you’ll need to take additional degree-applicable courses to return to good standing before enrolling in the capstone for your second and final time. This is only an option if your five-year, degree-completion deadline allows for more time to take additional courses.

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A Comprehensive Guide on High School Senior Capstone Projects (With Examples)

Reviewed by:

Rohan Jotwani

Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University

Reviewed: 3/8/24

As you near the end of your high school journey, it's time to explore the world of senior capstone projects.

If you're a high school student, especially in your senior year, you're likely gearing up for the culmination of your academic journey: the senior capstone project. 

In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about capstone projects, complete with examples to spark your inspiration and help you succeed. Whether you're just starting to explore project ideas or fine-tuning your plans, you've come to the right place!

What Is a Capstone Project?

A capstone project is like the grand finale of your academic or personal journey. It's a focused effort that you tackle within a set timeframe, bringing together everything you've learned or accomplished. Unlike a passion project , which you can work on whenever you feel like it, a capstone project has a clear deadline.

For instance, let’s say you're a culinary arts student nearing graduation. Your passion lies in sustainable cooking practices, and for your capstone project, you decide to create a cookbook featuring locally sourced, eco-friendly recipes. 

Your cookbook project demands months of research, recipe development, testing, and layout design. It's a big commitment that demonstrates your expertise in culinary arts and your dedication to sustainable food practices.

Similarly, in school, a capstone project could take various forms, such as conducting research on a scientific topic, developing a business plan, or creating a multimedia presentation. These projects all reflect your broader interests and passions, demonstrating your skills and knowledge in a specific area.

Overall, your capstone project in high school is a major milestone, allowing you to demonstrate your expertise, creativity, and dedication. It's a chance to bring everything you've learned together and show what you're capable of achieving.

Different Between Capstone and Passion Project

Capstone projects are typically a mandatory part of a school or college program. They're serious business involving thorough research, problem-solving, and often collaboration with teachers or experts. The goal is to demonstrate your mastery of the subject matter and readiness to tackle real-world challenges.

On the other hand, passion projects are all about following your interests and doing something you love. You could focus on writing a novel, starting a community project, or diving into a hobby—passion projects are driven by personal motivation rather than academic requirements. They're more flexible and allow you to explore your passions on your own terms.

So, while both capstone and passion projects are valuable ways to dive deep into a topic you're passionate about, capstone projects are more structured and tied to academic goals, while passion projects offer more freedom and personal expression.

How to Find Ideas for Capstone Project

Looking for capstone project ideas? Let's take a look at some effective strategies to spark inspiration and find the perfect project for you.

Follow Your Interests

Think about what excites you the most. Do you love helping the environment or dreaming up better ways to teach? Pick a topic that really speaks to you. When you're passionate about what you're working on, you'll stay motivated and focused from start to finish.

Use What You've Learned

Consider the subjects you've learned in school. Think about how you can use that knowledge to solve real-life issues. For example, if you've studied marketing, you could create a marketing plan for a nearby business. Or, if you're good at finance, you could analyze a company's finances and propose ways to make them better.

Don't hesitate to reach out to your professors, advisors, or mentors for guidance. They've been through similar experiences and can offer valuable insights and suggestions. They might even be able to connect you with industry contacts or organizations that could provide support or resources for your project. Their feedback can help you refine your ideas and ensure you're on the right track.

Check Feasibility

As you narrow down your options, it's crucial to assess the feasibility of each potential project idea. Consider factors such as the availability of resources, the complexity of the task, and your own time constraints. 

While you want to choose a project that's challenging and meaningful, it's also essential to be realistic about what you can accomplish within the given timeframe. Setting achievable goals will increase your chances of success and prevent unnecessary stress along the way.

Identify Current Issues

Keep up to date with the latest news and trends in your field of study or topics that interest you. Identify important issues or new challenges that you could focus on for your capstone project. By addressing relevant and current topics, you can actively contribute to important discussions and possibly have a bigger impact with your project.

Consider Community Needs

Consider the issues that matter most to your local community or a specific group of people. Is there a problem or something missing that you could help with through your project? By talking to people in your community through volunteer work or doing surveys, you can find project ideas that match real needs and make a positive impact.

Broaden Your Horizons

Think outside the box! Don't stick to just one subject for your capstone project. Instead, think about how you can mix ideas from different areas. By combining different perspectives, you can come up with creative and innovative solutions that you might not have thought of otherwise. This can make your project stand out and bring new insights to your work.

Look for Inspiration from Previous Projects

When searching for ideas for your capstone project, take a look at projects completed by students who came before you. Looking at successful past projects can give you helpful ideas about topics, methods, and how big your project should be. 

Remember, it's important not to copy someone else's work exactly, but you can use it to inspire your own unique ideas and ways of doing things.

Think About Long-Term Goals

Think about how your capstone project can help you achieve your long-term goals, both in school and beyond. Are there particular skills you want to improve or experiences you want to have during the project? By making sure your project connects to your bigger plans, you can make it even more meaningful and helpful for your future journey.

Stay Flexible and Open-Minded

Stay open to exploring new directions and adjusting your project as you learn and receive feedback. Sometimes, the best projects come from unexpected changes or improvements along the way. Stay flexible and welcome the chance to learn and develop throughout your capstone project. 

By blending your interests, what you've learned in school, and advice from mentors, you can create a capstone project that shows off your abilities and makes a difference in your field or community.

Tips on How to Execute Capstone Project

Ready to tackle your capstone project head-on? Here are some practical tips to guide you through the execution process smoothly.

Junior Fall

Brainstorm Ideas : This is your chance to explore a wide range of topics and ideas that pique your interest. Consider what issues or subjects you're passionate about, what challenges you want to address, or what questions you want to explore further. Keep an open mind and jot down any potential project ideas that come to mind, even if they seem unconventional at first.

Set Goals : Once you've generated some project ideas, it's time to clarify your objectives. Think about what you want to accomplish with your capstone project and break it down into smaller, actionable goals. Consider both short-term goals, such as completing research or gathering resources, and long-term goals, such as presenting your findings or implementing a solution.

Junior Spring

Recruit and Fundraise : Depending on the scope of your project, you may need additional support from teammates or financial resources. Reach out to classmates, friends, or faculty members who share your interests and might be interested in collaborating on the project. Additionally, explore fundraising opportunities to secure funding for project-related expenses, such as materials, equipment, or travel.

Hit Milestones : As you begin working on your project, set specific milestones to track your progress and stay on schedule. These milestones could include completing research, conducting experiments or surveys, drafting project proposals or reports, or presenting preliminary findings to peers or advisors. Regularly assess your progress and adjust your approach as needed to ensure you're meeting your goals.

Rising Senior Summer

Stay Busy : Although summer break is a time for relaxation, don't let your momentum wane. Dedicate consistent time each week to work on your capstone project, whether it's conducting research, analyzing data, drafting project documents, or refining your presentation skills. Establish a schedule and stick to it to maintain progress and prevent last-minute rushes.

Stay Connected : While you may be physically distanced from campus during the summer months, stay connected with your advisors, mentors, or project collaborators through email, phone calls, or virtual meetings. Keep them updated on your progress, seek their input or feedback when needed, and leverage their expertise to overcome any challenges you encounter.

Senior Fall

Keep Pushing : As the new school year begins, ramp up your efforts and focus on achieving your project goals. Set new objectives for the upcoming semester and prioritize tasks that will bring you closer to project completion. If your project involves organizing events, conducting experiments, or presenting findings, plan and execute these activities with diligence and attention to detail.

Senior Spring

Plan Ahead : As you approach the final months of your capstone project, take time to reflect on your accomplishments and consider the next steps. Evaluate the impact of your project, gather feedback from stakeholders or participants, and identify any areas for improvement or follow-up activities. Prepare for project completion by documenting your findings, finalizing project deliverables, and communicating your results to relevant audiences.

By following these guidelines and staying committed to your goals, you'll be well-equipped to execute your capstone project successfully and make meaningful contributions to your field of study or community.

Common Mistakes

Let's take a look at nine common mistakes students make in their capstone projects, along with tips on how to sidestep them.

Choosing a Topic That’s Too Broad

Your topic should be relevant to your field of study, but many students make the mistake of selecting broad topics that lack focus. To avoid this, consult with professors or career advisors to narrow down your focus and ensure your topic is both relevant and manageable.

Choosing a Topic You Don’t Really Care About

Passion is key to success. If you're not genuinely interested in your topic, your motivation and enthusiasm will dwindle over time. Select a topic that excites you and aligns with your interests to stay engaged throughout the project.

Not Doing Your Research Properly

Research is the backbone of your project. Skipping this step or relying on inaccurate information can derail your project. Take the time to conduct thorough research, cite credible sources, and ensure the accuracy of your findings.

Not Writing Your Paper in the Correct Format

A well-structured paper is essential for clarity and coherence. Follow a standard format, including sections such as introduction, literature review, methods, results, and conclusion, to ensure your paper is organized and easy to follow.

Not Taking Advantage of All the Resources Available

Don't overlook the resources at your disposal, whether it's the library, the internet, peers, professors , or academic advisors. Utilize these resources for research, guidance, feedback, and support throughout your project.

Not Proofreading Thoroughly Enough

Typos, grammatical errors, and formatting inconsistencies can undermine the credibility of your project. Take the time to proofread your work multiple times, or enlist the help of a peer or professional proofreader to ensure your paper is error-free.

Forgetting to Reference Your Sources

Proper citation is essential to avoid plagiarism and give credit to the original sources of information. Ensure you cite all sources accurately and consistently throughout your paper, following the required citation style guidelines.

Poor Presentation

Your presentation is the final show of your hard work. Neglecting to prepare adequately or rushing through your presentation can detract from the quality of your project. Practice your presentation, create engaging visuals, and rehearse your delivery to captivate your audience.

Waiting Until the Last Minute to Start Writing Your Paper

Procrastination is a common pitfall that can lead to rushed and subpar work. Start early, create a timeline, and break down your project into manageable tasks to avoid last-minute stress and ensure a polished final product.

By steering clear of these common mistakes and approaching your capstone project with diligence and dedication, you'll set yourself up for success and leave a lasting impression with your academic masterpiece.

Ideas and Examples of Capstone Projects

Need some capstone project ideas for high school? Let’s take a look at some high school capstone project examples. 

• Study green marketing strategies that promote sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Engineering

• Develop a system to detect red traffic lights using image processing for safer roads.
• Create a solar panel system with adjustable angles to maximize energy capture.
• Analyze how social media can be used to effectively engage and retain customers through content marketing strategies.
• Design educational programs for nurses on asthma care and point-of-care testing protocols for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Computer Science

• Develop a smartphone interface for managing medical records to improve accessibility and patient engagement.
• Design a web-based survey system for collecting feedback and analysis in academic or business settings.
• Evaluate the impact of project management practices on the success of political campaigns.
• Assess how technology influences accounting practices and the effectiveness of accounting software in improving financial reporting.
• Explore the benefits of virtual classrooms and digital engagement strategies for remote learning.

Information Technology

• Investigate cybersecurity issues and propose solutions to protect against threats like intrusion and data breaches.
• Create object recognition systems using machine learning for security surveillance and image analysis.

Looking to gain clarity on your senior capstone project? Here are some frequently asked questions to guide you through the process.

1. How Does a Capstone Project Differ from Other High School Projects?

A high school capstone project typically involves more in-depth research and interdisciplinary exploration compared to other projects.

2. How Do I Choose a Topic for My High School Capstone Project?

To choose a topic for your high school capstone project, consider your interests, skills, and academic goals, and seek advice from teachers or mentors.

3. Are High School Capstone Projects Required for Graduation?

High school capstone projects are not always required for graduation and can vary depending on the school or program.

4. Can High School Capstone Projects Be Related to Extracurricular Activities?

Yes, high school capstone projects can be related to extracurricular activities and allow students to integrate their interests and experiences into their academic projects.

Final Thoughts

In short, high school senior capstone projects are your chance to shine. By picking the right topic, steering clear of common pitfalls, and tapping into available resources, you can leave a lasting mark. Whether it's in marketing, engineering, education, or any other field, capstone projects let you show off your skills and get ready for what's next.

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Designing Capstone Experiences

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Starting with the graduating class of 2025, all Stanford undergraduates are required to complete a capstone project as part of their major (see  capstone.stanford.edu ).

Capstones have been identified as a high-impact educational practice , providing opportunities for students to integrate and apply what they have learned during their major courses of study, strengthen relationships with instructors and mentors, and experience a range of personal and practical benefits.

CTL is excited to support departments and programs in the implementation of capstones. For all questions, email Kenneth Ligda at [email protected] , or file a CTL consultation request .

Exemplary capstone projects at Stanford

Capstones may take many forms, ranging from honors theses to community projects, seminars to group projects, e-Portfolios to research papers.

Many models for successful capstones already exist across Stanford departments and programs. Here, we provide a few exemplars to give a sense of both the possibilities and practicalities in this work.

Each of these capstone exemplars excel in two critical areas:

• providing opportunities for student-guided learning
• structuring experiences to help students meet challenging goals.

Through the capstone, students are often tasked with open-ended questions that push them to find novel or original answers. This offers students a unique opportunity to explore their own interests and direct their own learning. Whether students work on a team-based or individual project, they must use the knowledge and skills they have gained throughout their education to tackle complex problems that are often interdisciplinary in nature.

Preparing students for this kind of work can be challenging. A good place to start is with the learning goals from our capstone exemplars. The instructors identify important learning goals for their students that will help them transition into independent work and guide their own learning throughout the capstone.

But what happens when a student struggles with these ambitious learning goals? The capstone exemplars also discuss how their capstones have evolved over time to provide students with continuous support and feedback to help them throughout their capstone experience. The instructors describe how their capstones are structured to ensure students have clear guidelines at the start of their capstone and multiple checkpoints to meet the intended capstone learning goals. 

Urban Studies

Bioengineering

Religious Studies

Human Biology

CTL offers the Capstone Experience Design (CapED)  program to all departments and programs conferring undergraduate major degrees.

CapED is a two-day intensive to focus efforts on designing a successful capstone experiences. Modeled after CTL’s renowned Course Design Institute (CDI), CapED provides departments and programs a collaborative environment in which to design capstone experiences for their majors. Teams or individuals are welcome, and may include faculty, lecturers, staff, and undergraduate majors.

In CapED, we apply current research in teaching and learning to design effective and inclusive capstone projects suitable for diverse student majors. Learning goals for CapED participants include:

• Articulating student learning goals for the capstone project
• Drafting a capstone curriculum aligned with capstone learning goals and the major curriculum
• Integrating research-based practices into the capstone curriculum
• Evaluating capstone design to ensure equity and inclusion for all majors
• Receiving feedback from mentors in departments/programs with a capstone project

CapED Workshops and Materials

We are not currently planning another instance of CapED, but if you or your department/program are interested, please contact Kenny Ligda, [email protected] , for workshop materials or for a customized offering for your group.

Centre for Innovation in Education

Capstone Projects

Author: Rachelle O’Brien

Capstone research and enquiry projects afford opportunities for students to learn through active enquiry and research, at every curriculum level (Fung, 2017). Such projects are often undertaken as a culminating academic and intellectual experience for students (GSP, 2016) towards the end of their studies. They are designed so that students can demonstrate their breadth of learning across a programme by applying knowledge to a project, topic, piece of research or ‘real world’ issue (Centre for Innovation in Education, 2019).

Capstone projects:

• Enable learners to explore something meaningful to them.
• Foster curiosity and lifelong learning.
• Celebrate the student experience by combining elements such as personal, academic and professional experience (Healey, Lannin, Stibbe and Derounian, 2013).
• Provide opportunities for exploration of students’ own deep interests.

Putting it into practice

Healey et al. (2013) reflect that the primary focus of capstone projects should be on integration, synthesis or application of previously acquired knowledge. They are intended as a way for students during their final year of study to apply knowledge and experiences gained from their whole programme to a project which addresses students’ academic disciplinary identities and “considers their purpose in the wider social context of the ‘real world’” (Cleaver, Wills, Gormally, Grey, Johnson and Rippingale, 2017, p23).

When designing capstone projects, ask yourself:

• What does a capstone project look like in my subject?
• What examples of good practice can we find in our discipline or similar? How could we use this information to change or enhance what we are doing?
• If we are being challenged to find, draw on and apply learning from across all areas of the programme, what might be useful? Think about what students have done up to now and how this could be incorporated or included into a capstone type project.
• Capstone projects have a connected throughline of enquiry – what do our students do and how does the learning across my program connect? Can we leverage this in a capstone project? (Fung, 2017).

When many people think of capstone projects, they think of a dissertation which is one of many examples of a research-based learning project varying by disciplines.

Some further examples of capstone projects include:

• Research into a subject.
• Event planning.
• Experiments.
• A showcase, performance or exhibition.
• Service learning or volunteering.
• Internships or work-based learning.
• Development of resources.

A simple way?

A simple way to work towards a capstone project would be to build a core portfolio and/ or summative task, through a series of modules, in which students clearly describe the skills and attributes they have developed that are both meaningful to the student personally and authentically linked to subject knowledge (Fung, 2017).

Ideally, the dual intention with a capstone project is to help students successfully negotiate the transition from their studies into their next career stage, whether that is the workplace or future study and to work towards the development of higher levels of intellectual development (Baxter Magolda 2009; Healy et al., 2013).

Research-based learning, such as capstone projects, enable students to participate in research, engaging them actively, rather than simply learning about it in a didactic class (Cleaver et al., 2017). Fung (2017) posits that research-based education provides structured educational opportunities, created for students to learn through active enquiry and research, at every level of the curriculum. There is growing evidence that students benefit from engaging in dialogic collaborative enquiry, whereby prior assumptions are challenged through interaction with others and the object of study (Fung, 2017).

By inviting students to become partners in research and educational development, you are empowering them and giving authentic experiences of collaborative research and enquiry. Engaging collaboratively with ideas and findings can work towards contributing more effectively to the global common good (Fung, 2017).

Fundamentally, a curriculum which integrates students’ knowledge and learning from further studies, with engagement with local and global challenging issues, better prepares students for lifelong learning. In a landscape where ‘skills for employability’ are a growing concern and more integrative approaches to curriculum are being globally explored, capstone projects play a key role in assisting the process of engaging students in contextual, lasting knowledge creation (Healy et al., 2013).

• Learning within capstone research must be visibly relevant to students (Fung, 2017).
• Due to the scale, developing capstone projects can be daunting; however the rewards can be great (Fung, 2017).
• Finding a balance between subject depth, employability and student experience and expectations can be quite tough (Fung, 2017).
• Making coherent connections across disciplines or modules is not always easy. In these cases, consider seeking support from your colleagues who have already introduced capstone projects.

Centre for Innovation in Education. (2019). Liverpool Curriculum Framework  Programme Self Evaluation Questions (PSEQ) - Centre for Innovation in Education - University of Liverpool. Retrieved May 3, 2019.

Cleaver, E., Wills, D., Gormally, S., Grey, D., Johnson, C., & Rippingale, J. (2017). Connecting research and teaching through curricular and pedagogic design: from theory to practice in disciplinary approaches to connecting the higher education curriculum. In  Developing the Higher Education Curriculum: Research-based Education in Practice .

Fung, D. (2017). A connected curriculum for higher education. UCL Press: London.

Great Schools Partnership (GSP). (2016).  Capstone Project Definition - The Glossary of Education Reform. Retrieved May 3, 2019.

Healey, M., Lannin, L., Stibbe, A., & Derounian, J. (2013). Developing and enhancing undergraduate final-year projects and dissertations A National Teaching Fellowship Scheme project publication. (July).

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Home > HSEL > HSEL Student Capstone Projects

School of Education and Leadership Student Capstone Projects

Browse this collection of Capstone Projects submitted by students completing their master’s degrees in the Hamline School of Education and Leadership. Capstones are the culminating degree work and include research that draws from the student's formal study as well as professional and personal development. Submissions include a scholarly written description of the project and may include the project artifact (as a supplemental file).

Capstone Projects are documented in Digital Commons as a degree completion option, starting in 2017.

See also: School of Education Student Capstone Theses and Dissertations

• Master of Arts in Education (MAEd)
• Master of Arts in Education: Natural Science and Environmental Education (MAED: NSEE)
• Master of Arts in English as a Second Language (MAESL)
• Master of Arts in Literacy Education (MALED)
• Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)

Capstone Projects from 2023 2023

Implementing Nature-Based Play In Academically Focused Early Childhood Settings , Abbie Krohn

Best Practices: To Supporting and Including SLIFE, Preliterate, Pashtu Students in Secondary, Western, Schools , Claire Madden

Anxiety Disorders In Elementary Students: Interventions For Classroom Use , Jillian Maloney

How does Nutrition, Exercise, Sleep, and Phone Addiction affect Elementary Student Learning? , Madeline (Marston) Ballis

Folktale Friends: An After School Club Curriculum For Building Community And Cultural Competency , Abby Marta

Using Cooperative Groups to Enhance Student Learning in a High School Math Class , Caitlin McCain

Helping Female and Nonbinary Identifying Students Grow Confidence in the Science Classroom , Mari McDonald

English Language Arts Curricular Interventions and Achievement in Advanced First Grade Learners from Underserved Backgrounds , Nicole McKenzie

In what ways are schools, districts and states proactively supporting the mental health of their teachers to reduce teacher turnover and burnout? , Lauren Meyer

Educating Paramedics on the Importance of Postpartum Maternal Health and Related Emergencies , Jeffery Morgan

Increasing High School Students’ Environmental and Scientific Literacies Through Outdoor Investigations , Mack Mowen

Correlations between Outdoor Recreation and Environmental Awareness in Participants with Various Ages, Cultures, and Abilities , Jackie Murphy

Utilizing a School Garden to Promote Ecoliteracy in Elementary Aged Children , Kelsie Murphy

How to Design and Implement a Maker Space in the K-3 Classroom , Elizabeth Nelson

How Adult EFL Teachers Can Effectively Utilize Duolingo in Their Curriculum , Rebecca Nelson

Creating Inclusive Spaces: Using Book Clubs to Increase Diverse Literature in Schools , Clare Ng

A Need For Culturally Relevant Texts To Motivate K-2 Students In Reading , Thi Hoai Anh Nguyen

Role Playing Gamification in the Science Classroom , Timothy Normandt

Elevating Student Voices Through Rigorous Academic Discussion: A Unit of Study for the Middle School English Language Arts Classroom , Emily O’Brien

How Can Guest English-speaking Teachers Best Promote Students’ Identity and Culture in South Korean Schools , Tracy Olsen

Equitable and Inclusive Dance Assessment Resources , Christie Owens

Informal Education Builds Deeper Knowledge And Connections With Elasmobranchs To Develop An Understanding For Environmental Conservation , Lacie Ownbey

An Effective Small Group Reading Intervention Scope And Sequence For Students In Grades Three To Five , Caitlin Phan

Metaphor Matters: Teaching Metaphoric Competence , Linda Pope

Implementing Inquiry in a High School Economics Course , Nathan Prince

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What’s a Capstone Project? And Why Do I Have to Take It?

• Taking Courses
• Degree Planning

Over the years, I’ve frequently heard students grumble about taking a capstone course or project, that one last step before graduation as outlined by their degree requirements.

“Why do I have to take it?” “Do I really have to take this?” “What is the point of all this!”

This final course may seem daunting or frustrating, but once it’s completed, the Capstone often becomes one of the most rewarding and valuable experiences in a student’s college career.

The capstone course is the last class in a program of study. It’s called a capstone because it represents a crowning achievement as a capstone does in architecture. For some degree programs, a capstone course may require a project and subsequent presentation; for others, it may include an assessment exam to test interdisciplinary skills (like math, writing, critical thinking, etc.). A capstone may also involve a final research paper exploring a topic of interest, emerging from a student’s individualized program of study. Ultimately, a capstone project represents new work and ideas, and gives you the opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge and skills you have gained during your college career.

Not only does a capstone course allow us to substantiate if students are learning the necessary skills needed to continue onto success after graduation (and we’ve made changes to courses and degree requirements to better assist students in this manner), but the completion of a capstone project can be used for an employment portfolio. By integrating theory and practical experience, your project can set you apart from graduates of other institutions. Imagine walking into a potential employer’s office with an applied research project exploring solutions to an issue or problem the organization, or industry as a whole, has been grappling with?

A Capstone’s Purpose: Career Advancement

In the field of technology for example, one of the challenges is how rapidly it changes. Jordan Goldberg, mentor and developer of our APS-295 Associate Capstone  course, said it helps ensure students are prepared to handle these changes as they start their careers. “Today, it’s important to understand the trends early on in the process, and the tools available to develop and deploy new technology,” he says. “The Capstone course uniquely brings together students from all majors within the school [of Applied Science and Technology] in an interactive and collaborative fashion to discuss and examine opportunities, challenges and issues related to technology.”

Here, students are able to look at real world examples and situations, exchange their points of view based on experiences and discuss potential solutions to problems. “The concept of the capstone course is to provide the essential information to be able to ask the right questions and critically look at nontechnical issues that have the potential to negatively impact the deployment of a new emerging technology or application,” says Goldberg. “Ultimately, this will prepare the student for a technical leadership role in their area of study as they complete their degree.”

Thomas Edison State University offers Capstone courses in several of our degrees:  LIB-495 Liberal Arts Capstone is required for a Bachelor of Arts degree, and APS-401 Current Trends and Applications  is required for our Bachelor of Science in Applied Science and Technology degree. Our newest course is the APS-295 Associate Capstone, required for the Associate in Applied Science and our Associate in Science in Applied Science and Technology degree programs. These courses have engaged students to pursue intriguing projects, indicative of their career pursuits, including:

• Classroom accommodations for elementary age students with attention deficit disorder
• The theoretical impact of a present-day conflict between North and South Korea on the U.S.
• Evaluating public awareness of privacy issues surrounding modern technology 

On Your Own Terms

In any college degree, there are courses you have to take to fulfill the general education requirements for your degree or area of study. And a capstone project, while relative to your major, allows you to choose your own subject in that discipline. When I was a graduate student studying American History, my capstone project afforded me the opportunity to research a topic that I never solely focused on in any of my courses, but was fascinated by all my life, Abraham Lincoln. 

I delved into an intense study of how the narrative of President Lincoln’s life had changed throughout the course of history, depending on when and who was writing the biography. This was the most fun I’d ever had taking a college course because I was able to read and write about a topic I was passionate about. Meanwhile, I was able to show off the skills I’d gained during my years in college.

So if you are required to take a capstone course, I understand if you want to grumble about it a little while. But when it’s all done, get ready for the most exhilarating feeling ever. I promise.  

Are you currently working on a capstone project? Share your experience and advice in the comments below!

Written by Donald Cucuzzella

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Capstone Projects for Nursing Programs

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Capstone courses function as a bridge between the end of school and the beginning of a career, allowing nursing students to put what they’ve learned into practice. As the name suggests, students complete capstones toward the end of their nursing training. Not every nursing program requires a capstone, but those that do generally culminate in a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) or doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degree.

Each nursing program sets their own requirements. While capstone formats differ between programs, they typically consist of an evidence-based practice formal paper or presentation. Students might complete their capstone projects as team leaders, and BSN candidates may present their papers to a faculty panel. Projects could include case studies, program evaluations, and policy analyses.

The focus on evidence-based practice allows students to apply research and experiential evidence toward solving a healthcare problem. For example, candidates may develop intervention strategies that promote health, improve outcomes, enhance quality of life, and foster safe practices for patients.

Capstone goals center on the application of knowledge gained during nursing training programs, including topics related to leadership , management, research, theories, and evidence-based practice, along with the strategies needed to transition from students to baccalaureate-level nurses.

Choosing Your Nursing Capstone Topic

When selecting a capstone topic, students should evaluate their interests, strengths, and weaknesses, along with their chosen nursing specialty area. Luther College recommends that students with lower GPAs and weaker nursing skills consider a basic medical-surgical topic. Those with strong clinical skills and high GPAs might choose emergency or intensive care medicine, although some students might prefer outpatient topics, such as clinical services, long-term care, or public health. However, this is simply an example of one school’s approach, and readers should keep in mind that each school sets its own policies and recommendations.

Asking for guidance from faculty, supervisors, preceptors, and fellow students also helps narrow down capstone topics. Advisors can also provide assistance in choosing an appropriate capstone site, helping with questions of geographical location, facility size, patient population, and care delivery model.

Students develop and learn the skills needed to complete their capstones throughout their training. These include organization and time management, knowledge of evidence-based practice, writing, and critical thinking. They also learn to conduct literature searches, identify research designs, and evaluate evidence.

Completing Your Nursing Capstone

Capstone formats and completion times widely vary between programs. Students at Luther College and Purdue University Northwest complete their capstones in 4-5 weeks, while Ferris State University specifies a timeframe of 30 hours of online classes and 90 hours of applied project work. Case Western Reserve University’s capstone spans 10 weeks.

Regardless of the program, most students follow a PICO format for project proposal questions of inquiry: population, intervention, comparison or condition, and outcome.

Some universities allow capstone projects to be completed in teams, in which students develop and implement the project. Capstone components may include defining the project and the team leader’s role, selecting team members, and formulating the project plan.

In addition to the skills previously referenced, such as knowledge of evidence-based care, critical thinking, and effective writing, capstone courses hone leadership and management abilities These include mastering therapeutic communication, applying leadership and management concepts, and developing collaborative relationships and working on multidisciplinary teams.

Presenting Your Nursing Capstone

The capstone process culminates in a paper or presentation that measures students’ skills in communication, information dissemination, and application of evidence-based practice skills. Members of the public may attend.

Utilizing the poster format, students commonly use three panels to illustrate: (1) the background, problem, and purpose; (2) methodology; and (3) 2-3 key findings and implications. Students who present using PowerPoint on a laptop or other device should pay attention to time limits, planning for one slide per minute, and verify that equipment and internet connectivity are available.

Visuals like graphs, figures, and bullet points are more effective than large blocks of text . Students should practice presenting in front of others to ensure that they thoroughly know their content and can answer questions. Backing up a copy of a PowerPoint presentation and printing out copies or transparencies guards against last-minute glitches.

How is a Nursing Capstone Graded?

Capstone grading methods differ between programs, with some issuing letter grades and others using a pass/no pass system. Grades typically hinge on a percentage basis of the project’s written sections, the final proposal, and the presentation. Faculty evaluate how students execute the capstone course objectives, which may include the following:

Students’ presentation skill evaluation criteria include exhibiting thorough preparation and knowledge of the subject matter, clear and concise communication, adherence to any time limits, ability to answer questions and cite references, and persuasiveness.

What is the Difference Between a Nursing Capstone and a Thesis?

Students complete capstones individually or in groups, while thesis projects must be done alone. Capstone project time lengths span between four and 12 weeks, while graduate students work on their thesis projects throughout their 2- to 3-year programs. Graduate thesis courses generally take place over 1-2 semesters to keep students on track.

Finally, capstone topics evaluate current issues and theories; thesis students incorporate existing case studies and literature while exploring and arguing for their own original research. Some schools require students to publish their thesis papers in a healthcare journal.

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Theresa Granger, Ph.D., MN, NP-C With over two decades of teaching and clinical practice as a family nurse practitioner, Dr. Granger is an expert in nursing education and clinical practice at all levels of education (associate, baccalaureate, and graduate). She has published and lectured extensively on nursing education and clinical practice-related content. Her expertise ranges from student advising and mentoring to curricular and content design (both on ground and online) to teaching and formal course delivery. Dr. Granger is one of the founding faculty members of the University of Southern California’s first ever fully online graduate family nurse practitioner program .

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Why Capstone Projects Are Crucial to Your Growth as a Music Educator

June 8, 2023

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Plus, Four Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Capstone Experience

However, it is more than a reflection of the past — it is also something that can help students as they move forward. It is a tangible achievement that they can demonstrate to their current or prospective employers. Moreover, it can transform how they teach.

In this article, we provide a broad overview of the UF capstone project, how it fits into the online Master of Music in Music Education, and how it can match and support students’ career goals. We also share tips on how to get the most out of the project.

Megan Sheridan , an associate professor of music education at the University of Florida, shares insights and advice for students throughout the article. Dr. Sheridan serves as a faculty advisor who has helped many UF Music Education students shape their capstone project. In addition to her advisory role, Dr. Sheridan teaches a range of courses, including general music education, qualitative research, and sociology in music education. She also has extensive experience in elementary classrooms having taught general and choral music in public and private schools in Pennsylvania and Maryland.

“The University of Florida has a fantastic online master’s program. I truly enjoy working with the students in this program.” Megan Sheridan Associate Professor of Music Education at the University of Florida

Dr. Sheridan’s research, teaching, and professional background mirror the guiding principles of the UF School of Music: her goal is to help students develop their knowledge and skills so that they can inspire the next generation of musicians.

She also believes that educators should meet students where they are, rather than adhering to a rigid set of techniques: “To inspire students, educators must strive to connect with them on their level rather than strictly adhering to a rigid set of techniques,” said Dr. Sheridan.

What Is the Capstone Project? A Brief Overview

“The capstone project is a culmination of a student’s learning and growth that has happened over the course of their master’s degree program,” explained Dr. Sheridan. “It demonstrates that you have put in the work to gain the knowledge and skills that place you at a master’s level and that you can speak intelligently about music education in a variety of ways.”

While students in the online Master of Music in Music Education do take a specific capstone course, “ MUE6790: Capstone Project in Music Education ,” the capstone shouldn’t be seen as a stand-alone product.

Instead, it serves as a companion to all work done in the program and, on an even larger scale, a complement to a student’s professional journey.

The Capstone Is Based On Your Interests

Students choose their own topic to pursue, with the help of a faculty advisor like Dr. Sheridan. That advisor then works with the student from start to finish.

“As an advisor, it’s my job to guide students through the capstone process. I help students identify their area of focus and then break the research and writing tasks into manageable steps,” said Dr. Sheridan. “With this approach, it doesn’t seem like an overwhelmingly large project.”

Not all students start the program with a topic in mind — and that’s okay. Dr. Sheridan said that she encourages students to choose a project that has a personal connection. If a student isn’t sure what they want to pursue, they’ll sit down and talk about any favorite courses or topics, or about a professional issue that they’d like to address.

For example, a student might choose a project related to music performance anxiety because they have experienced stage fright themselves and also want to help their classroom students overcome their fears so that they can enjoy music performance. Or, perhaps they’d like to help their K-12 students’ ability to sight read music, so they develop a research-based curriculum that will allow them to systematically teach this skill. These are just a couple of examples of capstone topics, which are limited only by the UF student’s interests and creativity.

The Capstone Can Broaden Your Perspective

While the capstone topic aligns with a student’s interests, it can also serve as a catalyst for them to step outside their comfort zone and broaden their perspective of music education. This matches one of the key goals of the UF School of Music’s approach to education.

“Students get to step outside the boxes they’ve initially put themselves in, where they’ve limited themselves by believing there are only certain prescribed ways to approach music teaching,” Dr. Sheridan said. “They learn there is not one single way to approach teaching.”

“For instance, some become interested in informal music-making or modern band,” she explained. “Or they start to focus more on ways to incorporate creativity, improvisation and composition in the ensemble setting. Through their coursework and highlighted by the capstone, they develop a more well-rounded approach to teaching music.”

How the Capstone Format Matches Your Career Goals

Students not only get to select the capstone topic, but they also get to determine the approach that best suits their requirements, with the guidance of a faculty advisor.

While some students might prefer researching a topic and presenting their findings in a paper, others may choose a practical approach that involves breaking down a teaching process and developing a new curriculum plan. Ultimately, the format is based on what is most useful for their future. Past students have undertaken projects such as:

• Students who are interested in the “why” of a topic might choose to do a critical analysis of current knowledge or conduct original research. For students who want to go on to pursue a PhD or other post-graduate education, completing a research-based capstone preps them to undertake future academic projects like a dissertation.
• In this project, a student revises their own curriculum or unit plan; or designs a new curriculum or unit plan based around a learning goal or subject area. This is a great way to combine professional development with making a direct impact: “I’ve seen students use a curriculum project to revise their district’s music education curriculum,” said Dr. Sheridan. “In this way, the capstone can lead students to make a broad impact in their communities.”
• The e-portfolio capstone is a digital collection of examples that show a students’ best work, reflections on their learning experiences, and evidence of their growth throughout the degree. This platform is an excellent way for students to reflect on how the degree program impacted them as a teacher, scholar, and musician.

These are just some of the ways that MMME students structure their capstone projects. Keep in mind that this is not a definitive or official list; master’s students will work closely with a UF School of Music faculty advisor to develop their individualized capstone plan.

More Benefits: Professional Growth, Presentation Skills, and Networking

Even once a student puts the finishing touches on their capstone project, there are still more opportunities for professional growth. UF students have presented their projects at conferences and symposia, where they get to showcase their findings to a wide audience while building presentation and communication skills. You can see examples of these presentations on our student success stories page . Other students have had their capstone studies published in professional journals.

These events also provide a meaningful way to contribute to music education and a chance to network with other professionals in the field, potentially leading to future collaborations. By sharing their insights with wider audiences, UF’s music education students can help their fellow teachers find fresh and creative ways to inspire in their students a deep appreciation for music.

Four Tips for a Successful Capstone Project

Completing the MMME capstone project requires diligent planning, skill development, and dedicated effort, as it is a significant task to complete. To help ensure success, consider these tips:

• 1. Create a timeline and stick to it .

A timeline is crucial. It keeps you on track and prevents a last-minute rush to meet deadlines. A well-planned timeline can also reduce the “what should I be doing now?” moments. Plus, it can be a powerful motivator, as it’s a visual reminder of the progress you’re making.

Make sure to tell your advisor about your timeline and update them about any changes. Consistent communication is key: regular check-in moments can keep you accountable while ensuring that you and your advisor remain on the same page throughout the process. Plus, if you send smaller pieces of your project periodically, your advisor has more chances to give you quality feedback, and you have more time to improve your work in response.

“Students who do not let a week go by without working on their capstone tend to be the ones that develop really strong capstone projects,” Dr. Sheridan said. “They’re a lot less stressed because they can see they are making regular progress.”

• 2. Start thinking about your capstone when you start the music master’s program.

While you don’t need to start writing or researching on day one of your degree, you should start thinking about your capstone early on. Note what subjects or discussions interest you in your classes. Track the skills you are developing and highlight any that spark your enthusiasm. The more the capstone matches your interests, the more you are going to be excited about working on it.

“The capstone shouldn’t be viewed as a separate assignment, but as an outflow of the work you’ve done,” explained Dr. Sheridan. “A lot of students will take an idea they had in a class and expand it into a capstone project.”

She also noted that many students choose a topic that is personally relevant to them, in addition to being professionally important. “When you personally like what you’re doing, that makes it easier to stick with it,” she said.

• 3. Use the many resources provided by the University of Florida

The University of Florida libraries form the largest information resources system in the state of Florida. They offer a wealth of online resources to students, which includes large databases such as JSTOR and WorldCat and more targeted databases such as the Music Periodicals Database, the Performing Arts Periodicals Database, and RILM Abstracts of Music Literature. By the time students begin their capstone, they will be very familiar with accessing and navigating these databases thanks to their prior coursework.

Within the Master of Music in Music Education curriculum itself, two courses can serve as particularly helpful: “Psychology of Music” and “Research in Music Education.” These provide students with experience in conducting literature reviews, conducting research, and drawing conclusions from their own research and the work of others.

• 4. Observe other capstone defenses before starting your project.

Each semester, UF School of Music students present their capstone projects live via Zoom, and the online MMME community is invited to both support and actively participate in the presentations.

By watching and participating, newer students can get a sense of the scope of the project, as well as potentially find ideas and inspiration for their own work. Observing the capstone defenses can also provide insights into the expectations of the capstone and how it is assessed.

How a Capstone Elevates UF’s Music Education Program

The online Master of Music in Music Education has been thoughtfully designed so that every class, course, and curriculum step contributes to students’ growth as a musician, educator and scholar. We deliberately chose to include a capstone project so that students could have a rewarding experience that gives them the chance to dig into a topic that interests them and deepens skills that they’ll use throughout their careers.

The capstone is also an opportunity to connect with UF faculty like Dr. Sheridan. The connection you make with faculty during your capstone project — and throughout your time in the music education master’s program — can extend far beyond the capstone and even the completion of your degree. These professional relationships have the potential to become invaluable resources in your professional network, providing ongoing support and guidance as you navigate your career.

About the University of Florida’s Online Master of Music in Music Education

The University of Florida’s online Master of Music in Music Education program is designed to help music educators enhance their abilities as musicians, teachers, and passionate students of one of humanity’s most dynamic modes of creative expression. Exploring both practical and theoretical perspectives, the program, designed and taught by experts in the field, is perfect for current music educators looking to enhance their ability to encourage student engagement with music.

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The Dean College Senior Capstone Course: A Look at Four Recent Projects

At Dean College, the majority of students complete a Capstone research project in their senior year, prior to graduation. The purpose of the Capstone is to provide an integrative experience that allows students to apply what they have learned in their academic courses at Dean.

“The Capstone course provides an opportunity for our students to pursue independent research on a topic of their choice,” explained Robin Bowman, Assistant to the Dean for the School of Liberal Arts. “The Capstone then culminates in a research paper, completed under the supervision of a faculty advisor, and then a formal presentation of their results.”

The benefits of completing a Capstone in college are many, including:

• Research, communication, and analytical skills;
• Integration of knowledge;
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills;
• Personal growth and confidence; and
• Preparation for real-world applications.

Dean College’s Professor of Sociology, Kristin Holster, PhD says, “Successfully completing a Capstone course requires dedication, commitment, and self-discipline. Students must overcome challenges, which helps them to develop their confidence. We frequently hear from alumni currently in graduate school that their Capstone experience prepared them well for what is expected of them.”

At the end of 2023, seniors presented their fascinating research to the Dean community. We caught up with four of them to learn a little about their experiences.

Annabelle Cutrer, Dance and Psychology (majors)

Harmonizing futures: optimizing alumni networks in performing arts higher education.

Q: What was the purpose of your Capstone project?

A: My senior project aimed to bridge the gap between alumni, specifically of Dean College’s Joan Phelps Palladino School of Dance, and the school community. The overarching goal of this project was to create an event proposal designed to enhance alumni engagement and bring them back to campus, fostering a stronger sense of community. As a soon-to-be graduate, I hope to return to Dean as an alumna, which was a big inspiration for my project. 

Q: What conclusions did you come to at the end of your Capstone?

A: The results of my survey revealed that dance alumni are very interested in returning to campus to connect with students in a variety of ways. Dean is very special to a lot of people, which was shown in the answers given by alumni. Although there is excitement about future alumni events, results revealed that most alumni (63%) felt neutral when asked about their feelings toward the current alumni program.

Q: How do you think doing a Capstone at Dean prepared you for your future after graduation?

A: In this specific case, I think my Capstone will open up opportunities for all alumni and soon-to-be graduating seniors, including myself. Ideally, the Joan Phelps Palladino School of Dance will use my research and results as motivation to create a strong community between current dance majors and alumni. When it is my turn to take on the role of alumna, I want to have the chance to come back and connect with current dancers and alumni.

Kyle Ingram, Exercise Science (major)

Testing and comparing vo2max scores among different positions in lacrosse.

A:   The purpose of this study was to compare the oxygen consumption (VO2max) in different lacrosse team positions, while also analyzing which position on the field will consume the most oxygen. The athletes' Respiratory Exchange Ratio (RER) was also analyzed.

A:   I discovered that the position of attackmen had the highest VO2max average, followed by midfielders, and then defenders. The higher the VO2max score was, the individuals tested tended to burn more fat than carbohydrates. This indicates that the VO2max test was not super challenging for the athlete and that the athlete was very conditioned. Body fat percentage was also measured and averaged per position (defenders had the highest).

A:   It prepared me for a potential Capstone project in the future at graduate school. It also utilized all the skills and knowledge I have gathered over the years at Dean, culminating in a research project that can help me down the road with career projects or obstacles I might run into.

MacKenzie Fillion, Biology (major), Psychology (minor)

Gram-negative bacteria in vaping devices.

A:   The purpose of my Capstone project was to see if there were gram-positive and gram-negative (harmful) bacteria present within the mouthpiece of vaping devices, as well as to bring awareness to the negative side effects of vaping with visual and textual evidence.

A:   This study has begun to address the gap regarding bacteria in vaping devices. The results from this study provide insight that gram-negative bacteria are the leading bacteria in these devices, allowing them to harm the human body and create further health implications. Individuals can eliminate exposure to gram-negative bacteria by giving up or avoiding smoking habits. For those who continue to struggle with addiction, it is important that companies strongly enforce policies regarding proper hygiene, follow manufacturing rules, and limit the amount of chemicals that users can be exposed to. These changes could be highly difficult to make since vape products are manufactured internationally, and it is difficult for one country to enforce legislation on another.

A:   I believe my Capstone experience at Dean has prepared me in many ways for my future after college. The main lessons I have learned through this experience include acquiring independent critical thinking skills; the ability to design and conduct experimental studies; maximizing resource utilization; and effectively communicating crucial messages to a wide audience.

Meena Kasthambadi, Early Childhood Education (major)

Effect of hospitalization on young children’s emotional and educational needs: a review of literature.

A: My goal is to help Early Childhood Educators, or any other professionals who work with children, learn how being hospitalized impacts them. There are all sorts of ways to help children emotionally and physically when they are transitioning back into the classroom. 

A: The goal of Early Childhood Educators and Child Life Specialists is to educate the whole child, and this cannot be done without a thorough understanding of the characteristics and educational needs of young children who are or have been hospitalized.

A: This Capstone paper has helped me tremendously for my future after Dean. My goal is to become a Child Life Specialist after graduation and to accomplish this, I will need to go to graduate school. My whole Capstone paper had to do with children in an Early Childhood and Child Life Specialist setting. 

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2023 Capstone Projects

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