introduction to capstone project

• Customer Reviews
• Extended Essays
• IB Internal Assessment
• Theory of Knowledge
• Literature Review
• Dissertations
• Essay Writing
• Research Writing
• Assignment Help
• Capstone Projects
• College Application
• Online Class

Capstone Project: Definition, Types, Structure, and Examples

by  Antony W

January 2, 2024

If you're reading this, chances are that you're in your final year of school and the words "capstone project" have come up somewhere in your first or second semester.

You're probably looking for a quick score on the topic - what it's about, a project template, or even a sample. If so, you're in the right place.

Before we get into it, you' need to know that you're in the hands of consummate capstone project experts.

Help for Assessment is composed of scholars at all levels of academic achievement including Masters and Ph.D., all inspired and motivated to help students like you achieve their academic goals. The expertise and experience we have spans years. Even better, this combined academic expertise is placed at your disposal. If your capstone research project is already giving you goosebumps, we will do it for you from scratch including the project proposal, research, write up, and final review before submission.

Remember, you can trust Help for Assessment to complete your capstone project successfully and earn you top grades. All you have to do is order the service here on our service page.

 In the meantime, let us explore the definition of the capstone project, types of projects for students, and a sample capstone project.

What Is a Capstone Project? 

A capstone project in college is a final independent project undertaken in a program of study designed to assess the skills, knowledge, and expertise acquired by the student.

As the name suggests, it is the capstone or crowning achievement of academic life and the last class taken before graduation. It gives you the final credits required to pass the course, which is why every student must take the project.

Since it is designed to assess knowledge and skills gained in a particular discipline, capstone projects vary from school to school and discipline to discipline.

Such a project might involve something as simple as research on a topic, an evaluation of a new technique or method, development of a health program, research into a historical figure or event, or even composing a skit or theatre presentation.

No matter what kind of project you choose to undertake, the result is the same. You get to showcase your understanding of the coursework material learned and display your readiness to enter the professional world to start your career. It is a rewarding experience if done right, but can mess up your final year and possibly your graduation if you manage to mess it up.

Do you know that a successful capstone project also helps to land you lucrative jobs? That’s right, capstone projects are one of the ways potential employers find out just how learned, resourceful, and talented you are. Think of it as a kind of thesis.

Capstone projects are also called culminating projects, experience, senior exhibition, or other similar names. The project is usually self-directed, and most students find it a challenge to even come up with the right capstone project topic. 

Capstone Project Vs. Thesis

A capstone project and a thesis are both very similar in that they represent a final effort from the student just before graduation.

They are done in partial fulfillment of the requirements of the course being undertaken. The comprehensive approach and assessment involved are very similar, and sometimes the structure and methodology might overlap.

Both also have to be reviewed and approved by the institution and will remain in the public domain after publishing.

However, there are some important differences.

• A thesis is purely academic while a capstone project focuses more on the practical preparation of the student for the real world/job market.
• A thesis is guided by a research question resulting in the addition of new knowledge to the field, while a capstone project is guided by the practical importance of the project to the field.
• A thesis involves academic research and analysis, while a capstone project can be anything including a dance or film.
• A thesis is expected to be original and authentic, while a capstone project will have more loose requirements. You can borrow another person’s capstone project ideas , so long as you demonstrate your own advancement in the field.
• A capstone project will usually only have a brief write-up or report, while a thesis generates a detailed, extensive writeup.
• The final presentation of a thesis, called a defense, is meant to prove and show that you have mastered the subject. You are supposed to be a mini-expert in the field. A capstone project presentation comes off as a kind of exhibition where you showcase your project without having to defend it.

Types of Capstone Projects

Capstone projects vary not just in the type of project, also in the level at which they are done.

There are projects for juniors and seniors in college as well as for postgraduate students.

Here are some examples of the forms of projects depending on the academic level.

• In-depth research projects.
• Developing the concept of a product, tool, or service.
• Expositions.
• Experiments.

Capstone projects can be conducted either individually or in a group.

However, the key thing is to make sure that the project proposal has been reviewed and approved by the instructor/panel/institution in charge before proceeding.

Senior Capstone Project

Senior projects are so called because they are done by high school students in their senior year.

Just like other projects, they represent a culmination of the coursework with an interdisciplinary application of knowledge and skills gained so far.

The project usually takes the better part of the final academic year and will have different parts to it, depending on the type of project chosen.

It will also require a presentation where the student(s) explain and describe the project to an audience, including their classmates.

Sample Capstone Project Outline

The write up for a project consists of several parts. However, even before starting the write-up, you need to do a few things:

• Come up with an idea for your project. What will be your subject matter, topic, or premise?
• Find sources for the project and review them beforehand to ensure that they will be of help to you.
• Come up with a step-by-step methodology for your project.

Using this information, you will then write a capstone project proposal for your project. It informs your instructor or review panel exactly what you intend to present so that they can approve or reject it.

Once approved, you can go on to the next stage. The final write-up has the following parts.

• A title page.
• Project outline.
• A description/abstract.
• Introduction
• Rationale/relevance/reason for doing the project.
• Objectives of the project.
• Procedures/methodology.
• Research and analysis.
• Evaluation of results and findings.
• Conclusion and future work/suggestions.
• Bibliography/works cited/reference list.

Note that the project is carried out in stages. Once approved, you will need to be submitting weekly or monthly status reports to your supervisor. After the project report is submitted, you will also have to make a presentation about the whole project.

This brief outline is only meant to be a rough guide. We have a much more detailed article detailing how you can do your capstone project, including a project template. 

Capstone Project Examples

Help for Assessment has extensive experience when it comes to capstone projects of all kinds.

Whether it’s a high school project, a college capstone, or a senior capstone project, you can trust us to carry it out successfully for you.

You can check out various project samples here . 

Get Help With Your Capstone Project

Capstone projects in every level of school are a make or break it deal. Given that they complete the graduation credits required, it makes sense to leave this important part of your coursework to experts.

We are proud to offer you a guide on how to write a capstone project here . If you need help, you can take advantage of our capstone project writing service at affordable, student-friendly rates with amazing discounts. 

Check it out here and make your order to experience excellence, peace of mind, and success thanks to our stellar services.

About the author 

Antony W is a professional writer and coach at Help for Assessment. He spends countless hours every day researching and writing great content filled with expert advice on how to write engaging essays, research papers, and assignments.

CAPSTONE PROJECT: Parts of a Capstone Project

• Parts of a Capstone Project
• Voice in the Capstone Project
• Analysis of Qualitative Data

What a Table of Contents Could Contain

I      Introduction        A     Statement Of Problem/Opportunity (Research Question)        B     Background, Context, And Significance Of Study        C     Project Researcher Identification II     Literature Review        A     Subheadings (Themes Discovered In Review)        B     Notice Of Gaps In Knowledge III    Methods        A     Subjects/Participants        B     Data Collection Approaches/Strategies              1     Advantage Of Strategy              2     Limitation Of Strategy              3     Potential Risk              4     Ethical Issues About Collection Upon The Subjects/Participants        C     Data Analysis Approaches And/Or Software (NOT The Results Themselves, Just How You Are Going To Analyze The Data – Coding Method, Analysis Of Interviews/Recordings, Mathematics And Stats Analysis) IV     Results, Findings, Interpretation, And Discussion V      Recommendations, Application, And Conclusion VI     Reference Pages

What Goes Into Each Section

• Next: Voice in the Capstone Project >>
• Last Updated: Jun 27, 2019 9:31 AM
• URL: https://lifepacific.libguides.com/capstone

Life Pacific University Alumni Library | 1100 W. Covina Blvd | San Dimas, CA 91773 | Ph: (909) 706-3009 | Email: [email protected]

• Other Guides
• What Is a Capstone Project & How to Write It: Definition, Outline, Steps
• Speech Topics
• Basics of Essay Writing
• Essay Topics
• Other Essays
• Main Academic Essays
• Research Paper Topics
• Basics of Research Paper Writing
• Miscellaneous
• Chicago/ Turabian
• Data & Statistics
• Methodology
• Admission Writing Tips
• Admission Advice
• Student Life
• Studying Tips
• Understanding Plagiarism
• Academic Writing Tips
• Basics of Dissertation & Thesis Writing

• Essay Guides
• Research Paper Guides
• Formatting Guides
• Basics of Research Process
• Admission Guides
• Dissertation & Thesis Guides

What Is a Capstone Project & How to Write It: Definition, Outline, Steps

Table of contents

Use our free Readability checker

A capstone project is a culminating academic project. It typically requires students to apply the skills they have gained during the course to a real-world problem. Capstone projects are common in undergraduate and graduate programs across a range of disciplines, including business, engineering, healthcare, and education.

Interesting fact, the first documented capstone project was completed in 1937 by Edgar F. Batten, who proposed to build an airport. It was considered a novel idea at that time, but it led to the development of Cleveland Municipal Airport. Today, they have come a long way, allowing students to showcase their creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. In this guide, we will define a capstone project and state its purpose in academics. We will also delve into its significance and provide an outline of how to do a capstone project. So, get ready for an exciting journey to become a capstone pro! Remember that you can always buy a capstone project from our academic gurus if you strive for maximum output.

What Is a Capstone Project: Definition

Capstone projects are vital in every school. Then, what is a capstone project ? Generally, it is research designed to showcase students’ knowledge, skills, and abilities in specific fields of study. This task is challenging and time-consuming, but once completed, it is rewarding. Capstone project is interdisciplinary in nature and can be completed in various formats, such as a written report, research paper , term paper , or presentation. It often involves independent research and analysis by an individual college or university student or group. For example, you could be asked to explore one topic or social problem that interests you, do extensive research about it, assess findings, and propose a solution. Based on the definition of capstone project, it is a culminating academic experience that typically takes place at the end of students' college education. Other basics include:

• Use of academic knowledge Students apply knowledge and skills they have acquired throughout their academic program to their papers.
• Collaboration with faculty members or industry professionals Students may work with faculty members or industry professionals to gain additional insight and guidance on their capstones.
• Presentation or defense Students may also be required to defend their capstone project in front of a panel of experts or live audience.
• Evaluation by committee A committee evaluates the student's paper to determine if they have met all academic requirements and project standards.

What Is the Capstone Project Purpose?

The main purpose of a capstone project is to assess your ability to integrate and apply knowledge acquired throughout your academic program. It gives you a chance to demonstrate mastery of a particular field of study, showcasing critical thinking, research, and communication skills. Capstone project serves several key goals:

• Demonstrate student’s learning abilities As an educational strategy, capstone project can be used to show if the learner has acquired knowledge gained over the entire course.
• Improve students’ self-perception and confidence Typically, capstone projects allow students to take on new responsibilities and show commitment all through. Completing them boosts their self-esteem, self-awareness, as well as confidence.
• Boost career aspirations Since capstone projects involve working on real-world problems, students gain practical experience and prepare them for their future careers.
• Foster motivation and engagement Creativity involved in senior capstone projects, especially since students select them based on their personal interests, can motivate them to learn, engaging others in that process.

Importance of Capstone Projects

The importance of capstone projects cannot be overstated. They supplement your academic journey, providing opportunities for you to demonstrate mastery of skills and knowledge, build real-world experience, and showcase your abilities to potential employers. Writing capstone paper can serve several important reasons, including:

• Preparing for future careers By working on real-world issues and engaging in independent capstone research project, you develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and presentation skills that are essential for successful careers.
• Encouraging innovation By providing you with an opportunity to tackle complex problems and come up with innovative solutions, capstone projects encourage creativity.
• Demonstrating mastery of a particular field By successfully completing a capstone project, you demonstrate mastery of a particular field, setting yourself apart from others in the academic program as well as enhancing your marketability in the job market.
• Building your CV Prospective employers want to know more than just your academic performance. What is the capstone project you undertook in school? Adding them to your CV will inform them of your additional skills you possess.
• Building a sense of accomplishment Completing capstone essays can be a significant accomplishment, giving you pride and satisfaction for your hard work.

Senior Capstone Project Structure

A capstone project structure plays a crucial role in helping you write a successful paper. It provides a clear, organized framework for the capstone project, helping you ensure that you include all necessary parts. It will also guide you in the right direction, helping you find the best approach to complete your paper. Before you begin writing a capstone project paper, it is important to carefully review all guidelines provided by your academic program to ensure that it meets all requirements and is structured clearly and effectively. Here is a general structure of senior capstone project:

• Abstract Brief summary of the capstone project, typically around 250-300 words. It provides a concise overview of background information, objectives, methodology, results, and conclusion. It is often the first section that readers view to better understand your study's purpose and findings.
• Introduction This section provides an overview of the paper and sets context for your study. It includes a background on the topic, a clear problem statement or issue being addressed, research questions, and objectives. It should also highlight how your paper will be structured.
• Literature Review It provides a comprehensive overview of relevant research on the topic, including an analysis of previous studies, gaps in literature, and theoretical framework that will guide your study. It is important to provide thorough and well-structured literature review to support your research questions.
• Methodology In this section, you outline research design types, data collection and analysis methods, and sampling procedures that will be used to address your research questions. It should also give detailed description of the research process, including rationale for methods chosen and procedures followed to ensure validity and reliability of data collected.
• Results Here you present your study findings, including statistical analyses, tables, graphs, and figures that illustrate the results. They should be presented in a well-organized manner, focusing on answering your research questions.
• Discussion This section provides an interpretation of results, connecting findings to literature and research questions, further discussing their implications. The discussion should give critical evaluation of results, considering the limitations for future research.
• Conclusion It summarizes the main study findings, providing recommendations for future research. This section should be a clear and concise summary of results, tying the findings to research questions and objectives.
• References This section provides a comprehensive list of all sources cited in the paper, formatted according to appropriate citation style (APA, MLA, etc.).
• Appendices If necessary, this section includes additional materials that support the main study findings, such as survey instruments, raw data, or transcripts of interviews.

Capstone Project Outline

A sample capstone project outline is a visual representation of the paper structure and organization. It acts as a roadmap for writing, helping ensure that the project stays on track. The purpose of the capstone project outline is to provide an overview of all main elements and order in which they will be presented. Here is a template example of an outline for a capstone project:

• Background of the topic
• Purpose of study
• Research questions
• Overview of paper structure
• Overview of relevant research
• Analysis of previous studies
• Gaps in literature
• Theoretical framework
• Research design
• Data collection and analysis methods
• Sampling procedures
• Rationale for methods chosen
• Procedures to ensure validity and reliability of data
• Presentation of study findings
• Statistical analyses
• Tables, graphs, and figures
• Focus on answering research questions
• Interpretation of results
• Connection of findings to literature and research questions
• Implications of findings
• Critical evaluation of results
• Study limitations
• Implications for future research
• Summary of main findings and conclusions
• Recommendations for future research
• Comprehensive list of all sources cited in paper
• Additional materials that support main study findings

How to Write a Capstone Project Paper?

A capstone project requires careful planning to show that you have a grasp of a particular discipline or subject. As such, it is important to understand the steps involved in the process and have a well-defined plan in place. The following subsections will guide you in writing a capstone project paper, from start to finish, giving you the roadmap to ensure a successful outcome. Each part is carefully detailed to help you understand what’s expected of you. Follow these steps to learn how to write a capstone paper:

1. Choose a Topic

Choosing a topic is an important step in writing a capstone project. It sets the foundation for your paper, determining how successful the final product will be. Always go for capstone project ideas that have not been extensively researched, allowing you to add new insights. Here are some steps to follow when choosing research topics :

• Identify area of interest Think about your interests, passions, and academic strengths. This will help you choose a topic that you are genuinely interested in or are well-suited to research.
• Consider the project scope Make sure the topic is manageable within a specified timeframe and resources available to you. In particular, it should be narrow enough to allow you to focus, but broad enough to provide enough material for a comprehensive analysis.
• Review the coursework Take a look at all courses you have taken so far and consider how they relate to your chosen topic. Remember the paper should be built on knowledge you have acquired throughout your academic journey.
• Consult your supervisor A capstone project advisor can provide valuable guidance and feedback on the topic. They can help you refine it, ensuring that it is relevant to the field of study.
• Research your topic Once you have a few potential topics, research each one to determine their feasibility, availability of resources, as well as scope of literature.
• Make a decision After you have conducted your research, choose one topic that you are most interested in and that you believe will be the most rewarding.

Choosing a topic that is relevant, manageable, and of personal interest to you will help you stay motivated throughout your capstone writing process.

2. Research Existing Literature

Conducting a thorough literature review is crucial in helping you understand the current state of knowledge on the topic, identifying gaps your capstone senior project can fill. Here's how to go about it:

• Start by brainstorming keywords or phrases related to the topic, using them to search databases, such as Google Scholar , JSTOR , and other relevant academic sources.
• Pay attention to relevant theories and studies as you research. This will help you get a sense of what has already been done, what questions remain unanswered, and what you can contribute to the field.
• Keep track of all sources, taking notes as you read. Organize them into categories, like creating an annotated bibliography that you can refer to later.
• Evaluate the quality of sources you found. Check if they are peer-reviewed or have been published in reputable academic journals.
• Synthesize the information you have gathered to identify themes or patterns. This will help you see the bigger picture and understand the research context.
• Use the synthesized information to refine the research question and hypothesis. Make sure that your research is original and adds to the existing body of knowledge.

By conducting a thorough literature review, you will write a capstone paper that is well-informed, grounded in latest research, and makes a meaningful contribution.

3. Define a Problem

Based on research, define the problem statement you aim to address in your capstone research paper. It should be well-defined and specific. The problem statement should be clear, concise, and align with the research question. It should also be justified, explaining why the problem is important, including how it relates to current literature. Here are some steps to follow when defining a problem for a capstone project:

• Review existing literature Conduct a thorough review of existing literature in your area of interest. This will help you identify any gaps in knowledge or areas that need further research.
• Identify the problem Based on literature review, identify a specific problem or issue that you would like to address. It should be relevant and of interest to you.
• Refine the problem Make it more specific and focused. Consider the project scope, available resources, and own abilities.
• Formulate a research question Based on the problem you have defined, formulate a research question that will guide your paper. It should be clear, concise, and answerable through research.
• Develop a hypothesis Develop a hypothesis that you will test through research. It should provide a potential answer to the research question.

Defining a problem is important because it provides focus and direction for research. A well-defined problem will ensure that your capstone project writing is of high quality.

4. Introduce Your Research Methods

This section should describe methods you will use to collect and analyze data, as well as the rationale behind your choice. They should be appropriate, accurate, and reliable for the capstone project. You should also explain any final capstone project limitations, including how you plan to address them. Here are some steps to follow when introducing graduate capstone research methods:

• Choose research methods that are appropriate for the research question and hypothesis. Consider the strengths and weaknesses of different methods, and select the ones that are most suitable.
• Provide a clear explanation of why you chose the methods you did. Explain how they will help you answer the research question and test your hypothesis.
• Give a detailed description of research methods, including how you will collect data and analyze it. Be specific about what steps you will take, tools you will use, and data you will collect.
• Consider any ethical issues that may arise from using those research methods. Explain how you will ensure that research is conducted in a responsible manner.
• Review previous research that has used similar methods, considering any lessons learned from that. Explain how you will apply these lessons to your own research.

Introducing research methods is important because it sets a foundation for your research. It will provide readers with a clear understanding of your methods, including rationale behind them.

5. Discuss Your Key Findings

This step involves presenting findings of the study and analyzing all data. When writing a capstone paper, provide a clear presentation of the results in addition to how they relate to the problem they aim to address. They should be presented in a logical, organized manner, and supported by evidence. In your capstone work, discuss their implications, including how they contribute to the existing body of knowledge. Here are some steps to follow when discussing key findings:

• Present results in a clear and concise manner. Use tables, graphs, and charts to help illustrate your findings.
• Interpret results based on your research question and hypothesis. Explain what the findings mean and why they are significant.
• Compare your results to those of previous research in similar fields. Explain how the results you got are similar or different from previous findings.
• Discuss research limitations and the strengths of methods used. Explain how they may impact the results.
• Discuss implications of the findings for your field of study or society as a whole. Explain how that research contributes to a broader understanding of the topic.
• Conclude your discussion of key findings by summarizing results and their significance. Highlight key takeaways while explaining why they are important.

6. Present a Capstone Project

In this final step, you should present your capstone project in a clear, organized manner, highlighting key findings and significance of research conducted. This should be a well-structured, well-written paper or oral presentation that showcases your knowledge of how to do a capstone project on a specific subject. Capstone in college or university should be written in an academic style, following the guidelines set by the institution. The paper should also include an abstract, introduction, literature review, methodology, results section, discussion, and conclusion. For oral presentation, you may also be required to answer questions from the audience. So, it is important to be well-prepared and familiar with the paper content. It should effectively communicate your research findings to them. To make a successful presentation, here are a few suggestions:

• Plan your presentation carefully.
• Use visual aids, such as slides, charts, graphs, and images, to help you effectively communicate ideas or findings to the audience.
• Rehearse the presentation several times until you are confident and comfortable with its content and flow.
• Present only the most important information to avoid going into too much detail.
• Interact with the audience by asking questions or allowing for discussion.
• Be ready to answer questions from the audience, discussing your work in great detail.

Capstone Paper Format

A capstone project format can vary depending on the discipline or requirements set forth by your instructor or program. Most times, you may encounter the following common formats used in most capstone papers.

• APA paper format Mostly used in social sciences, education, and psychology. It contains a cover page, abstract, introduction, method, results, discussion, references, and appendices.
• MLA paper format Commonly used in humanities, such as literature and language. You must include in-text citations and the Works Cited page.
• Chicago format Often used in history, business, and other disciplines. It involves using either footnotes or in-text citations and a bibliography page.

Regardless of the chosen format, ensure that your capstone paper is well-organized, has proper grammar, and is easy to read.

Capstone Project Writing Tips

To ensure success in writing your capstone project, it is important to keep in mind some key practices. In this section, we will introduce you to common tips that can help you effectively plan, research, and write the paper. From choosing a suitable topic to proofreading the final draft, these tips on how to write a good capstone project will help you produce a successful paper that meets academic standards:

• Start early Give yourself enough time to research, write, and revise. Starting early will also give you enough time to address any obstacles that may arise when writing.
• Choose a suitable topic Pick a topic that interests you and is relevant to your field of study.
• Research thoroughly Gather as much information as possible from reliable sources. Conduct a comprehensive literature review to gain a deep understanding.
• Outline your ideas Organize ideas to create an outline for the capstone project. This will help you stay focused, ensuring the paper has a clear structure.
• Write clearly and concisely Use clear, concise language to communicate ideas. Avoid using technical jargon unless it is absolutely necessary.
• Cite your sources Properly cite all sources you use in the capstone project to avoid plagiarism. Follow the required citation style specified.
• Revise Take time to proofread the work. Check for grammatical, spelling, and punctuation errors. Also, ensure that ideas are presented well.
• Seek feedback Ask a friend, mentor, or academic advisor to review your capstone assignment and provide feedback. This will help you identify any mistakes.

Bottom Line on Capstone Project

In this guide, you have learned what’s a capstone project definition, its benefits in education, purpose, and structure. Before you embark on writing your paper, make sure you fully understand the meaning of a capstone project paper and what it entails. This means taking the time to carefully research a topic, identify a clear problem to address, and develop a research plan that will help you find answers. Remember that the final product should be well-written, well-organized, and effectively communicate your key research findings. Once you begin to write your capstone, keep in mind the following tips:

• Strictly follow the instructor’s guidelines.
• Only pick reliable sources for your capstone paper.
• Pay attention to the layout, format, and structure.
• Plan your time for completing the project wisely.
• Always seek feedback to ensure you are going the right way.

Feel free to check out our capstone project writing services and see how else we can assist you with this program! Our writers can always get you well-written texts before the deadline!

FAQ About Capstone Projects

1. what is a capstone project in college.

A capstone project in college is the final piece of stone needed to complete a degree program. It often involves significant research proposal, presentation, or practical application of skills and knowledge acquired during their program. By definition, it is a requirement for graduation and may be evaluated for grades or other forms of academic recognition.

2. What is capstone project significance?

Capstone projects are significant because:

• They provide an opportunity for students to demonstrate their mastery of a particular subject area.
• They allow students to apply knowledge and skills they have acquired throughout their college degree in a real-world setting.
• They provide students with a sense of completion and achievement, helping them demonstrate the value of their college performance to potential employers or other stakeholders.

3. How long should a capstone paper be?

The length of a capstone project paper varies depending on set guidelines by the academic institution or instructor. On average, they can be between 20-25 pages long, sometimes 35, including any supporting materials, such as appendices or references. However, check specific requirements from your institution as they can cap the number of pages.

4. What is the difference between a capstone project and a thesis?

A capstone project and thesis are both academic works, but they carry significant differences between them. A thesis is typically longer, and more in-depth than a capstone project. It is often required for graduate students and is based on original research. Its focus is narrower and more specialized. A capstone project is often required for undergraduate students, mostly based on research or practical application. It is more interdisciplinary in nature, involving solving world problems.

Joe Eckel is an expert on Dissertations writing. He makes sure that each student gets precious insights on composing A-grade academic writing.

You may also like

How to Write a Capstone Project like an Expert

This guide describes all the steps needed to create a capstone project, including choosing a topic, structuring the paper, and writing in a scholarly manner.

A capstone project is a research assignment that many students must complete as part of their undergraduate or master’s degree. It differs from other types of final papers such as a thesis or dissertation because it has a practical nature. Capstone projects call for a student to review a certain problem, often specific to the writer’s interests or experience, and conduct research to evaluate or resolve the detected issues. The goal of such assignments is to involve students in their future professional sphere (Weaver 2). Moreover, capstone projects assess how students use critical thinking skills and the knowledge they have acquired during a course.

Choosing a Topic

It is clear that your selection must be connected to your sphere of education. For example, if you are a medical student, your capstone project will likely be focused on health-care interventions. For future biologists and chemists, chosen topics will reflect their field of expertise. Nevertheless, these assignments can be made more personal as follows:

• Search for a topic that interests you. Selecting a theme that does not spark your interest can negatively affect your attention and the quality of your writing. You may neither be able to concentrate on your paper nor conduct in-depth research. Think about your experience, both educational and professional. Has there been a problem or issue that you noticed and wanted to solve? This capstone project may be your chance to do that.
• Consider the format of the assignment. What does your instructor ask you to include in the project? Anticipate the composition of the future paper and the various components it should contain. Do you have to conduct research, and do the results have to be measurable? Adjust your topic to reflect the instructions. Since in most cases students have to confirm the topic with their advisors before writing, you will be able to get some help if you are struggling to find suitable subject matter.
• Take into account the project’s length. Depending on the number of requested pages, you may need to broaden or narrow your topic. Try to estimate how much space each part of the project will take up, and choose a research area that has enough information.
• Research existing literature on the topic. If your topic is too narrow or too recent, you may not find enough academic literature to support your research. In contrast, if the topic is too broad, you may be overwhelmed by the amount of available information.

Capstone projects usually follow a specific structure:

• Abstract. Although it is located at the beginning of the written project, the abstract should be written last. It is a summary of the entire study; you can approach it as soon as you are sure that every other part is complete. Do not confuse the abstract with the introduction of the paper—abstracts contain enough information to interest the reader in the entire project. Thus, they must capture the essence and relay main concepts, hypotheses, research methods, and findings.
• Introduction. In this section, you will acquaint your readers with the topic you have selected. Sometimes, an introduction is split into multiple smaller categories such as “Purpose of the Paper” or “Research Questions,” but they can be located in this part since they present the topic. Here, you should introduce the issue and connect it to your sphere of academic knowledge or course. In addition, you may discuss why this research problem is significant. Next, list the formulated research questions or hypotheses that will guide the investigation. State the objectives that you wish to achieve with the help of this project. Finally, if it is required, include a thesis that succinctly describes the aims and beliefs of the capstone project.
• Literature Review. A review of the existing literature is a vital component of any research endeavor. Here, you will search for academic and other reliable sources that are connected to your topic. These articles, books, trials, and studies will be used as a foundation for the research. Sources can contain pertinent findings, discuss well-examined methodologies, present new ideas, and confirm or refute earlier findings. Document the results of your search and analyze them; look for gaps in knowledge. What themes are not explored well or missing altogether? What should or can be researched in more detail? You can attempt to fill in these gaps with your findings.
• Methodology. In this section of the project, you will talk about how your research is to be conducted.
• First, describe your research design; it can be qualitative, quantitative, or mixed (a combination of the two). Each type also has many subcategories. Choose one, and explain why it works the best for your topic.
• Next, state your independent and dependent variables if needed for your selected design. Independent variables are what you choose to investigate (for example, different training programs for employees). Dependent variables are affected by independent ones (for example, employee performance after training).
• Describe the sample for your project. Who are the participants, and how many of them are involved? What are the inclusion and exclusion criteria for research?
• List the materials and tools you used in conducting research. Here, you can introduce questionnaires, online tests, and other media created for this project.
• Write about the process of conducting research, discussing all the major elements of the procedure. What were the participants asked to perform? How were the results collected?
• Discuss how you analyzed the results, listing measurements, tests, and calculations. Explain why you chose each method, and support your selections with previous research.
• Results. This is a significant part of the project, where you show the results of the conducted research. Refrain from making any assumptions or conclusions here—state the results without interpretation. You can use graphs, tables, and images to illustrate findings. Remember to present data that will answer all the research questions and hypotheses you introduced earlier. Check the findings’ validity and significance if required by the chosen research style.
• Discussion. Here, you should analyze the revealed results—be critical and attentive. Try to find patterns or show correlations in the findings. Talk about the context. What does previous academic literature tell you about this study? Does it contradict or align with your findings? Think about the importance and implications of your results. Does this study add something new to the sphere of knowledge? Do not forget to consider the limitations of your project—what could make the research more reliable? Finally, introduce some questions for future research and encourage additional investigation.
• Conclusion. Some papers include a conclusion in addition to the discussion. Restate all major information from the study here, presenting it concisely. Do not propose any new ideas or data in this part. The function of a conclusion is to wrap up the project and talk about all important judgments.

Writing Process

In addition to adhering to the structure described above, you should also remember to pay attention to your writing process. Do not be afraid of making drafts before writing the final version; they will help you structure your arguments and findings. After completing the paper, be sure to proofread it as mistakes and inconsistencies can make the written project difficult to read, confusing, or even incorrect. If you think you need someone else’s opinion, ask for it—turn to your instructor, writing center, or other knowledgeable persons that will help you revise the text if necessary. Check all tables and graphs, and make sure that a reader can understand them as well as you do.

Capstone projects give students an opportunity to apply their knowledge in practice. They are designed around a narrow topic that investigates a real problem, using a specific structure that is followed in the majority of cases: an introduction, literature review, methodology, results, and discussion are essential elements of every capstone project. These assignments use a scholarly voice and require in-depth knowledge of previous scholarly literature. Like all academic papers, they need to be substantiated with evidence and be clear and unbiased. Lastly, proofreading is an important part of scholarly writing as well. This paper shows the writer’s level of preparedness after completing a course. Follow the provided guidelines and remember to be attentive—these rules should help you complete a high-quality capstone project.

Weaver, K. F., et al. “The Benefits of Peer Review and a Multisemester Capstone Writing Series on Inquiry and Analysis Skills in an Undergraduate Thesis.” CBE—Life Sciences Education, vol. 15, no. ar51, 2016, 1-9.

Unfortunately, your browser is too old to work on this site.

For full functionality of this site it is necessary to enable JavaScript.

How to Write a Capstone Project?

05 May, 2020

7 minutes read

Author:  Mathieu Johnson

Depending on your professor, he or she may define a capstone project as a capstone experience, a senior exhibition, or a culminating project. All of these terms refer to the assignment known as the capstone project. So what is a capstone project? Good question!

If you’ve never had to do one before, don’t worry—you surely have the skills to complete it. According to The Glossary of Education Reform, this particular type of assignment is “…a multifaceted assignment that serves as a culminating academic and intellectual experience…”. Simply put, the goal of this assignment is to integrate a variety of skills and knowledge acquired throughout the length of an entire course.

Still wondering what is a capstone project? Here are a few more defining details. These types of projects are considered long-term and are assigned well before their due date. Students are often asked to select a topic of interest, conduct research, track their process, and create an original final project to share the entire process and findings. Capstone projects rarely culminate in a single paper. They often involve portfolios and/or a multimedia presentation of some sort as well as an oral presentation. Check out these capstone projects at Yale University.

While this type of assignment is for a single class, presentations may be presented in front of a panel of teachers or professors as well as community stakeholders. Capstone projects are long, involved, require a great deal of planning, and are often heavily weighted in a student’s overall grade. In short, they require students to demonstrate a wide variety of skills in a multi-stage assignment.

Related post: How to write a Research Paper outline

Capstone Project Outline

When you first receive this type of assignment, it’s a good idea to sit down and brainstorm a capstone project outline. Taking the time to map out your approach will save a great deal of time later. This type of project requires a broad range of skills including the following:

• Media literacy
• Independent work
• Oral communication
• Interdisciplinary

Identify any weak areas early and develop a plan to tackle them head-on. Most professors allow students to select the best presentation method for their capstone project; therefore, you’ll have the ability to select a final product that you’ll enjoy doing. This could mean creating a public service announcement or perhaps a pamphlet to be distributed at a local event. It could also mean presenting your research at an appropriate local event. The first step in approaching what is a term paper is to consider your final product. Once you’ve determined where you’re going, it will be much easier to plot a path to get there.

Once you’ve determined your final outcome, it’s time to create a capstone project outline. Brainstorm the best sources for research. Consider creating questioners for professionals in the field you’re researching and make appointments to interview them to get primary source information. Consider investigating multiple forms of information including newspapers, magazines, journals, and other informational texts. Consider the problem from various viewpoints to ensure that you’re covering all aspects of your chosen topic.

Next, you’ll need to organize all your research into logical groups to present it in some way. Whether you create a multi-media presentation, give a lecture, create a brochure, or air a PSA, the information will need to be easily accessible to the audience and accurate.

Related post: Argumentative essay topics

Capstone Project Format

Your capstone project format can take a variety of different shapes. Since each capstone project format may be different depending on the issue that you’re researching, it is very important to get approval for your idea from the teacher or professor. Before you begin any type of research, be sure that your project is in line with what the professor wants. Set up a meeting during office hours to review your goals, your approach, and your final product. Once you have approval, you’re good to go! Not sure how to approach your capstone project format? Here are some potential ideas:

• Creating a business plan for a product or service that would solve a current issue in the community; the plan will be presented and assessed to local industry leaders and community stakeholders
• Create an air a PSA concerning a local issue
• Write and illustrate a children’s book on an important issue; present the book to age-appropriate children and lead lessons on issues in the book
• Designing an app to help a specific population or address a specific community need

As you can see, a capstone project format can take a variety of different forms. While there is certainly writing involved in the “what is a capstone project”, the emphasis will be on the culminating project.

Capstone Project Writing

Once you’re finished with the capstone project format it’s time to get down to the capstone project writing. Depending on what your capstone project format it will depend upon the type of capstone project writing you’ll need to do. While some students will be focused on scripts and press releases, other capstone project writing will be more along the lines of formal reports or text for multi-media presentations.UTICA College has a great step by step guide for approaching all the parts of capstone projects. Whether you need to write a formal report or many smaller pieces of text for a brochure or oral presentation, the same rules apply. All capstone project writing should be grammatically perfect and well-organized.

Related post: Research paper topics list

Hopefully, this guide has answered basic questions regarding what is a capstone project. Remember: this type of assignment is meant to be a culminating activity. This means that it will rely on all the skills you’ve learned throughout the course to make it a success. Choose your topic wisely; you’ll be spending a great deal of time researching information, organizing it, and presenting it. Planning out your approach and setting milestones for your project will be essential to its success. You’ll need to avoid procrastination and work diligently throughout the duration of the project. Ask your professor and/or mentor for help; they will be invaluable resources during this important assignment.

Feel free to buy essay online with our pro essay writer service.

A life lesson in Romeo and Juliet taught by death

Due to human nature, we draw conclusions only when life gives us a lesson since the experience of others is not so effective and powerful. Therefore, when analyzing and sorting out common problems we face, we may trace a parallel with well-known book characters or real historical figures. Moreover, we often compare our situations with […]

Ethical Research Paper Topics

Writing a research paper on ethics is not an easy task, especially if you do not possess excellent writing skills and do not like to contemplate controversial questions. But an ethics course is obligatory in all higher education institutions, and students have to look for a way out and be creative. When you find an […]

Art Research Paper Topics

Students obtaining degrees in fine art and art & design programs most commonly need to write a paper on art topics. However, this subject is becoming more popular in educational institutions for expanding students’ horizons. Thus, both groups of receivers of education: those who are into arts and those who only get acquainted with art […]

• Master's resources

Strategies for a Successful Capstone Project

• May 23, 2022

Home Educators Blog

Capstone projects allow students to showcase what they have learned in a particular academic program. While exams can be a summative way to gauge a student’s knowledge of the material, a capstone project allows for showcasing expertise and applying it to solve real-world issues.

A capstone project for  action research is a primary tool used at the collegiate level, particularly in a graduate program. In order to know what makes a successful capstone project, it is essential to understand the specific intent of the project and what components the capstone project consists of.

What is a Capstone Project?  

For students in graduate education school, there are multiple forms of culmination projects. At the master’s degree level, a student may have to write a thesis or capstone. They will be writing either dissertations or capstone project for doctoral programs. It is important to know the  difference between doctoral capstone and a dissertation  for aspiring researchers and scholars.

A capstone project for graduate school is a culminating project that has students apply their knowledge, skills, and training to a real-world problem. Many graduate degrees in the field of education, liberal arts, public health, and communication utilize capstone projects for a student’s final work to graduate.

Components of a Capstone Project

Generally, there are five to six components in completing a graduate-level action research project , and the names of the components may vary depending on the degree, university, or college.

Although the terminology of capstones will differ from one university or college to another, there is a central theme to the research project which shares common components. These themes focus on research, application-based components, and expectations.

In education degree programs, the components are:

Introduction

Literature review, methodology.

• Discussions

To understand your journey into completing a successful capstone project, let’s dive into the various components.

The abstract section is a condensed overview of the capstone project. In this section, there will be details about the project’s purpose, what specific research questions will be asked, and how the students will facilitate learning through research methods. Furthermore, this section gives a brief explanation of how the research findings were collected, validated, and what conclusions were drawn.

The introduction portion is where the researcher details the beginning parts of their project and what the intent of the project is.

This section puts together a detailed and comprehensive analysis of the research that is relevant to the research topic. Within this section is evidence found in research articles, books, and information specific to the content of the project and the vital need to find a successful methodology.

The methodology section is the section of the project where the researcher and scholar explain what  methods and materials  they will use to collect and analyze data and what specific instrumental they will be using to gather their findings.

Examples of this could be using specific data collection techniques such as:

• Frequency distribution tables
• Statistical analysis tools

For this section, the research findings are articulated, and the explanation of statistical and data analysis is explained. This is where the scholar speaks directly about the participants in the study, the knowledge, and experience shared with the project.

The discussion or conclusion section is where the researcher writes about future implications and recommendations for the project. This is also when the scholar or researcher emphasizes how the particular project adds to the current body of work by others and how they can apply the research findings to a real-world need.

Strategies for a Successful Capstone Project 

Completing a capstone project successfully comes from being well-prepared, setting goals, and being open to feedback and constant review. The following are strategies that will help you complete a capstone project:

Find a Topic You’ll Enjoy Researching 

Whether it is education, public health, or an MBA program, finding a topic interesting to you is vital. A capstone project has high expectations for academic research that will add value to the current career field. Be sure to consider multiple ideas to research and narrow down the specific topic of interest.

Find a topic you are passionate about at the beginning of the program. Although you may have multiple ideas, finding a topic you are passionate about early will save you time and allow you to gather more effective resources.

Find Effective Resources

When researching your capstone project, finding adequate resources adds credibility and substance to your project. The types of resources and references used in the project should be a combination of conversations with experts in the current field,  peer reviewed  articles and essays, and common researched-based studies specific to the topics. Doing this will help you formulate your thoughts and outline the tools and methods you will use for your methodology and later findings.

Time Management

A successful capstone needs to have  time management  as a priority. Consider creating a schedule of when to do work on your project. These can be long-term goals you and your professor set, but they also needs to include personal goals for weekly and daily time management.

During your project, you will get feedback from your professors, conduct interviews, and edit your materials. Protecting your time with family and friends and balancing time to research are equally important. This gives you a balance of both personal, professional goals, and wellness .

Collaborate with Others 

Colleges, universities, and research institutions are places where students collaborate with others, discover new passions, and find ways to enhance their career and professional development . While completing your capstone, be sure to collaborate with other like-minded individuals.

These could be students in your current graduate program, professionals in the career field that add knowledge and value to your project, and can also include students from other specialties and degree programs. This will give you the perspectives of others while completing your work, while also developing the necessary communication, technical, and academic skills to be successful.

A capstone project is a comprehensive way to do action-based research and give the student the skills they need to be successful in their career field. Finding the right project for you, a consistent support system, and a network of scholars and professionals will ensure your success and a project that will positively influence others.

Are you interested in taking the next step in your career and pursuing a graduate degree? Check out our available graduate education programs and get started today!

• #CapstoneProject , #Doctoral , #Masters

Looking for a graduate program?

The Role of Parents in Elementary School

The Importance of ESOL Education in the 21st Century

How a Master’s Degree in Teacher Leadership Can Affect a Career

We are here to help ..

Privacy | Sitemap | K-12 Teachers Alliance

Copyright ©2024

We use cookies to improve your experience on our website. By browsing this website, you agree to our use of cookies. View our Privacy Policy .

Framework and Syllabus: Introduction to Capstone Projects—A Hidden Gem of Engineering Education

• First Online: 11 November 2021

Cite this chapter

• Yongsheng Ma 3 &
• Yiming Rong 3  

711 Accesses

First and foremost, a senior design project course, Mec E 460 at University of Alberta (UA), is a practical, “hands on” design course!

Inventing is the mixing of brains and materials. The more brains you use, the less materials you need . —Charles F. Kettering

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.

Access this chapter

• Available as PDF
• Read on any device
• Instant download
• Own it forever
• Available as EPUB and PDF
• Compact, lightweight edition
• Dispatched in 3 to 5 business days
• Free shipping worldwide - see info
• Durable hardcover edition

Tax calculation will be finalised at checkout

Purchases are for personal use only

Institutional subscriptions

Author information

Authors and affiliations.

Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China

Yongsheng Ma & Yiming Rong

You can also search for this author in PubMed   Google Scholar

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Yongsheng Ma .

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

Copyright information

© 2022 The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG

About this chapter

Ma, Y., Rong, Y. (2022). Framework and Syllabus: Introduction to Capstone Projects—A Hidden Gem of Engineering Education. In: Senior Design Projects in Mechanical Engineering. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-85390-7_1

Download citation

DOI : https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-85390-7_1

Published : 11 November 2021

Publisher Name : Springer, Cham

Print ISBN : 978-3-030-85389-1

Online ISBN : 978-3-030-85390-7

eBook Packages : Engineering Engineering (R0)

Share this chapter

Anyone you share the following link with will be able to read this content:

Sorry, a shareable link is not currently available for this article.

Provided by the Springer Nature SharedIt content-sharing initiative

• Publish with us

Policies and ethics

• Find a journal
• Track your research

• Capstone Resources
• Literature Searches

Parts of a Scientific & Scholarly Paper

Introduction.

• Tracking and Citing References
• Books on Effective Writing
• Where to Publish?
• Examples of Projects
• Resources by Topic Area

Different sections are needed in different types of scientific papers (lab reports, literature reviews, systematic reviews, methods papers, research papers, etc.). Projects that overlap with the social sciences or humanities may have different requirements. Generally, however, you'll need to include:

INTRODUCTION (Background)

METHODS SECTION (Materials and Methods)

• << Previous: Literature Searches
• Next: Tracking and Citing References >>
• Last Updated: Apr 17, 2024 3:27 PM
• URL: https://libraryguides.umassmed.edu/capstone-resources

Capstone Form and Style

Walden capstone writing collaborative: introduction to writing the dnp project study, introduction to writing a dnp project study.

The DNP Process Guide presents a step-by-step guide to writing each of the sections and subsections of the DNP Project. This document outlines the expectations for student work. Reviewing this material should be a first step in beginning the dissertation writing process.

Next, as students begin preparing to write, they should review the materials related to the DNP Project document and process, provided on the Office of Research and Doctoral Services website . This page contains resources for writing the prospectus, proposal, and final study. The DNP Prospectus Guide is also helpful. In addition, students should download the appropriate template from the Writing Center’s Form and Style DNP Templates page .

DNP students can focus on writing the following types of project studies:

• Evaluation of Existing Quality Improvement Projects
• Staff Education Projects
• Clinical Practice Guidelines Development

To introduce students to writing a DNP Project Study capstone, here is a description of the main goals and outcomes associated with this process and document:

The goal of the document is to address a specific, defined, and applied nursing problem

• Students begin by identifying a problem that exists in the nursing world, then define a specific, local problem within that.
• The goal of the document is to address the specific nursing through evaluation, staff education proposals, practice guidelines, or a review of the existing research on the topic.
• Subsequent goals of the study are to articulate implications for nursing practice in the field AND the implications for social change (who will benefit from the results and how; see more below).

The document addresses a gap—the specific business problem has not been studied before

• After identifying the problem, students should identify/ensure there is a gap, as one of the goals of the study is to contribute to the scholarship in that area.
• It is important to make sure that the topic/problem has not already been addressed by other researchers.
• The results should make a significant contribution to the student’s chosen area of focus.

The study demonstrates a grounding in related literature and research in the field

• Another goal of the study is to demonstrate knowledge and expertise in the subject areas covered in the literature review.
• This is why the literature is lengthy and exhaustive; it is the student’s demonstration that he/she is an expert in these areas and is familiar with all previous relevant research, and that the student can convey this expertise through writing.

The document advances social change

• A final, Walden-specific and important outcome of the study is that results also make a significant contribution to social change. Students need to describe who may benefit from the findings of the study and how.
• Previous Page: Introduction to Writing the DBA Doctoral Study
• Next Page: Introduction to Writing the EdD Doctoral Study
• Office of Student Disability Services

Walden Resources

Departments.

• Academic Residencies
• Academic Skills
• Career Planning and Development
• Customer Care Team
• Field Experience
• Military Services
• Student Success Advising
• Writing Skills

Centers and Offices

• Center for Social Change
• Office of Academic Support and Instructional Services
• Office of Degree Acceleration
• Office of Research and Doctoral Services
• Office of Student Affairs

Student Resources

• Doctoral Writing Assessment
• Form & Style Review
• Quick Answers
• ScholarWorks
• SKIL Courses and Workshops
• Walden Bookstore
• Walden Catalog & Student Handbook
• Student Safety/Title IX
• Legal & Consumer Information
• Website Terms and Conditions
• Cookie Policy
• Accessibility
• Accreditation
• State Authorization
• Net Price Calculator
• Contact Walden

Walden University is a member of Adtalem Global Education, Inc. www.adtalem.com Walden University is certified to operate by SCHEV © 2024 Walden University LLC. All rights reserved.

• Utility Menu

Guide to the ALM Capstone Project

Customstyles.

• Course Catalog
• Research Methods

There are a number of ways to conduct research for your capstone topic, but everyone must start with the literature review in order to learn what has already been published on your topic. The literature review also helps you identify the different research methods used by scholars in the field that have already produced valid and reliable results.

Indeed, the literature review is the very first step and it is begun when you are crafting your capstone proposal. It is the only way to choose a topic and write your background and research methods section for the proposal. Of course, you'll continue to consult published work during the capstone course as well. Because this step is so important, we've created entire section on this topic (please see Literature Review , under Choosing a Topic).

Commonly used methods:

Case studies. Case studies are in-depth investigations of a single individual (noteworthy museum leader), a group (education department), or event (exhibit). Reading prior case studies is a must to inform your design. Reading case studies may also lead you to museum professionals who authored the published work. These experts could become research participants. Case study is a formal research method with a specific structure. For an introduction, visit Basics of Developing a Case Study from the Free Management Library.

Interviews . You may want to conduct interviews with experts in the field on a specific topic, such as, increasing diversity in musuem membership. Museum professionals have a wealth of information and are ordinarily happy to support beginning scholars. Your capstone reader and instructor can help make introductions through their own networks. Interviews are not simple tasks. You'll need to learn how to conduct interviews in such as way that avoids bias and elicits valid data that can be used for analysis. For an introduction, visit General Guidelines for Conducting Research Interviews from the Free Management Library.

Surveys . Conducting a survey is another way to gather research on your topic. Ordinarily, this method is chosen when you want to gather information from a large data set. Survey design is also not a straightforward task. For an introduction, visit the Harvard University Program on Survey Research.

Program evaluation . You may also consider in-depth and detailed evaluation of an aspect of a specific museum's operation, such as an exhibit or educational programs to understand if and how it met its intended goals. For an introduction, visit Evaluation Activities in Organization from the Free Management Library and Evaluations from the Institute of Museum and Library Resources.

• Choosing a Topic
• Precapstone Tutorial
• MUSE E-599 Past Capstone Titles
• Intellectual Property Rights
• Use of Human Subjects
• Frequently Asked Questions

Want to create or adapt books like this? Learn more about how Pressbooks supports open publishing practices.

7. Mapping Out your Capstone Project

Learning Objectives

By the end of this chapter, you will be able to:

• Explain how visual mapping can be used to organize knowledge and structure for your capstone project.
• Compare and contrast Logic Models and Concept Maps
• Explain how Problem Tree and Root Cause analyses can help you better understand identified problems, issues, or needs and develop methods for addressing them.
• Utilize a SWOT analysis for strategic planning of the capstone process.

This chapter focuses on visual mapping tools that can help you plan and implement your capstone project.  The purpose of Logic Models and Concept Mapping in relation to capstone projects are explained.  Problem Tree and Root Cause analyses are described in the context of identifying and planning for capstone project development.  Strength, Weakness, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) Analysis, as a strategic planning model for capstone development, is also discussed.

Introduction

Visual mapping, as a capstone planning tool,  is an excellent way to organize knowledge that can help you to structure, address,  and systematically approach your capstone topic.  A Logic Model is a graphic depiction, or road map, that presents the shared relationships among resources, activities, outputs, and outcomes/impacts of your capstone project’s activities.  The intended effect of a Logic Model is the “if-then” relationship among the project’s elements (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2018).  Concept mapping is a useful tool that can be used to define your theoretical framework and to visually display how it is applied to your literature review (Grant & Osanloo, 2016).  Problem Tree analysis, also referred to as Situational analysis, can be used for project planning.  Problem Tree analysis can help you find solutions to an identified problem, issue, or need by mapping out the anatomy of the cause and effect (Luma Institute, 2021).  Root Cause analysis can be used to discover the root causes of a problem, issue, or need to identify appropriate solutions (Guavera, 2018).  Finally, a SWOT  Analysis is a dynamic planning model that can be used to plot out a future course for your capstone project by acting on strengths, while minimizing associated risks.  It is important for students to develop knowledge and skills with visual mapping models and techniques in order to enhance their capstone project planning and development.

Logic Models

Logic Models provide a visual representation of an entire program in a flow chart format. Logic Models are a systematic and visual way to present and share your understanding of the relationships among the resources you have compiled to conduct your capstone project, the activities planned for implementation, and the anticipated changes or results from project/program implementation.

Components of a Logic Model

Logic models can focus on any level of a program:  the entire organization, one of its component departments or programs, or just specific parts of a department or a program.  Although logic models differ widely in format and level of detail, the following key terms should be considered in its development (Refer to Table 7.1:  Key Terms Used in Logic Models)

Table 7.1:  Key Terms Used in Logic Models

Sources:  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC]. (2018, December 12). Framework step 2 checklist . Centers for

Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved September 18, 2022, from https://www.cdc.gov/evaluation/steps/step2/index.htm; Doll, J. D. (2010). Program development and grant writing in Occupational therapy: Making the connection . Jones and Bartlett Publishers. (Refer to Appendix 7.A:  Sample Logic Model:  Community-Based Diabetes Prevention Program).

Concept Mapping

Concept mapping is a useful tool that can be used to define your theoretical framework and to visually display how it is applied to your capstone project’s literature review.  Basically, concept mapping is a process for representing and organizing ideas using pictures. The goal of a concept map is to simplify complex concepts using circles, boxes, and/or other shapes that are linked with arrows carrying explanatory legends that depict pictorial connections between ideas (Grant & Osonloo, 2016).

A concept map offers you an instrument to draw a plan for how you will approach your capstone project within a specific theoretical framework.  First, you should review literature and organize key issues of interest related to your topic.  These are the foundational concepts that support your chosen theory.  Next, arrange your ideas in a hierarchical, logical structure.  You can start with general ideas and funnel your thinking down to more specific, related topics and ideas.  Each idea should have a clear purpose and significance in relation to the aggregate topic.  Readers of your capstone project should begin to see a clear picture of your ideas by previewing the organization and identification of your key topics.  Visual arrows and connectors should provide insight into how concepts are aligned and connected and illustrate the flow of ideas.  Lastly, frame out your entire map with your theoretical framework and your PIO/PICO question (Grant & Osonloo, 2016).  Concept maps will help you write a clear literature review in an organized manner that is aligned with your chosen theoretical framework (Refer to Table 7.2:  Items to be Included in a Literature Review Rooted in Theory).

Table 7.2:  Items to be Included in a Literature Review Rooted in Theory

Source:  Grant, C. & Osanloo, A. (2016). Understanding, selecting, and integrating a theoretical framework in dissertation research: Creating the blueprint for your “house”. Administrative issues journal: connecting education, practice, and research ,  4 (2),7.

The ability to construct a concept map illustrates two essential properties of understanding:  the representation and the organization of ideas.  A holistic view of your developing concept map will allow you to view concepts that may or may not fit with your theoretical framework.  Your capstone instructors, and mentor can help you evaluate the feasibility of the theory, plan, and approach to your capstone project (Grant & Osonloo, 2016). (Refer to Appendix 7.B:  Sample Concept Map:  Person-Environment-Occupation Model).

Problem-Tree Analysis

Problem Tree Analysis provides a template for mapping causes and effects to better understand the chain of connected circumstances that led to a current issue, problem, or need.  Using the tree as a metaphor, you separate the causes (roots) from the effects (branches) of a central issue (trunk).  Problem Tree Analysis provides a structured way for you to identify concerns, discern causes from symptoms, and potentially frame problem statements in a clear manner.  Problem Tree Analysis can help you:

• untangle complex problems
• reveal various causes and effects
• build a shared understanding
• provide a direction for problem-solving

Problem Tree Analysis, which is also known as a Situational analysis or Problem analysis is central in many forms of project and program planning (Luma Institute, 2021).   (Refer to Table 7.3:  Advantages of Problem Tree Analysis).

Table 7.3:  Advantages of Problem Tree Analysis

Source:  Planning tools: Problem tree analysis . ODI. (2014, June 27). Retrieved September 18, 2022, from https://odi.org/en/publications/planning-tools-problem-tree-analysis/  (Refer to Appendix 7.C:  Sample Problem Tree Analysis:  Pediatric HIV)

Root Cause Analysis

Root cause analysis (RCA) is the process of discovering the root causes of problems to identify appropriate solutions.  RCA assumes that it is much more effective to systematically prevent and solve for underlying issues rather than just treating unplanned symptoms and putting out fires.  RCA can be performed with a collection of principles, techniques, and methodologies that can all be leveraged to identify the root cause of an event or trend.  Looking beyond superficial cause and effect, RCA can show where processes or systems failed or caused an issue, problem, or need in the first place. Identifying the root causes of a problem, issue, or need helps in developing more effective strategies to overcome it (Guavera, 2022).  There are three basic types of root causes that can have a potential impact on a problem, need, issue, or event:

• Physical causes
• Human causes
• Organizational causes

The first goal of RCA is to discover the root cause of a problem, issue, need, or event.  The second goal is to fully understand how to fix, compensate, or to learn from any underlying issues within the root cause. The third goal is to apply what we learn from this analysis to systematically prevent future issues or to repeat successes ( Root cause analysis explained: Definition, examples, and methods . Tableau, n.d.).

There are several core principles that guide effective root cause analysis, some of which may be readily apparent while others may not (Refer to Table 7.4:  Core Principles of Root Causes Analysis).

Table 7.4:  Core Principles of Root Cause Analysis

Source:  Root cause analysis explained: Definition, examples, and methods . Tableau. (n.d.). Retrieved September 18, 2022, from https://www.tableau.com/learn/articles/root-cause-analysis

It should be noted that RCA is not a one-size fits all methodology.  Rather, there are many tools, processes, and techniques that can be used in conducting in  RCAs.  Regardless of the technique chosen, the process for Root Cause Analysis remains the same (Refer to Table 7.5:  Root Cause Analysis Process).

It should be noted that RCA is not a one-size fits all methodology.  Rather, there are many tools, processes, and techniques that can be used in conducting in  RCAs.  Regardless of the technique chosen, the process for Root Cause Analysis remains the same (Refer to Table 7.5:  Root Cause Analysis Process)

Table 7.5:  Root Cause Analysis Process

Source:  Guevara, P. (2022, August 12). Root cause analysis: Definition and examples . SafetyCulture. Retrieved September 18, 2022, from https://safetyculture.com/topics/root-cause-analysis/(Refer to Appendix 7.D:  Sample Root Cause Analysis:  Fall-Related Injuries on Behavioral Health Unit)

Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) Analysis

A SWOT analysis is a high-level strategic planning model that helps organizations, programs, and/or other entities identify where they are doing well and where they can improve from both an internal and external perspective. A SWOT analysis can help you evaluate your business, program, or other entity by considering multiple factors:

• Strengths and weaknesses (represented as internal factors). Internal factors are considered things that can be controlled.  Examples include team members, program content, and geographical location.
• Opportunities and threats (represented as external factors). External factors are considered things that cannot be controlled.  Examples include policies and regulations, economic trends, and competitors.

Students can use a SWOT analysis to plot out a future course for their capstone project that will focus on project strengths while minimizing risks.  Insights you glean resulting from your SWOT analysis should be used constructively as part of the capstone planning process (Jackson, 2022).

How to Do a SWOT Analysis

Undertaking a SWOT analysis requires planning and organization.  The following steps will take you through the process:

• Step 1: Create a SWOT Matrix (Refer to Figure 7.1:  Sample SWOT Matrix)

Figure 7.1:  Sample SWOT Matrix

• Step 2: Consider including community, program, and capstone project stakeholders.  Including stakeholders input in a SWOT analysis can provide more insight as different perspectives can be considered (Jackson, 2022).
• Step 3: Lists your strengths
• Step 4: List your weaknesses
• Step 5: Identify your opportunities
• Step 6: Identify your potential threats
• Step 7: Examine your Matrix for connections

A SWOT analysis can help you with strategic planning for your capstone project and program development.  This tool can help you define objectives, create priority initiatives to help make them a reality.  Subsequently, a SWOT analysis can help you to identify measures that help to ensure that your capstone project is unfolding optimally (Refer to Appendix 7.E:  Sample SWOT Analysis for a Hospital).

Logic models can be a valuable method for establishing capstone program planning, an implementation plan, and the outcomes or changes you hope to achieve (Doll, 2010).  A concept map is an attempt to make explicit your program’s connection with theory so that it can be reviewed by others. While concepts maps provide a visual representation of how you will approach your capstone project in the context of a specified theoretical framework, logic models provide a graphic depiction that presents the shared relationships among the resources, activities, outcomes, and outcomes/impacts of your capstone project’s identified need, problem, or issue.  Problem Tree and Root Cause Analyses can help you with your capstone project by identifying how to approach a recognized problem, need, or issue.  Finally, a SWOT analysis can be used to evaluate your capstone project by considering multiple internal and external factors that can facilitate effective program development while minimizing risks.

Glynn has continued to meet with their mentor, capstone instructor(s), the institution’s statistician, and librarians.

The guiding theory for Glynn’s research-based capstone project is the Diffusion of Innovations.  After performing a literature search to specifically gain more information about this theory, Glynn created the following:

Appendix 7.E:   Sample SWOT Analysis for a Hospital

Optimizing Your Capstone Experience: A Guidebook for Allied Health Professionals Copyright © 2023 by Virginia E. Koenig is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

Share This Book

Master of Science in Threat and Response Management

Capstone project guidance, introduction to the capstone project.

The capstone project is a degree requirement of the Master of Science in Threat and Response Management Program. Students complete their capstone projects during the last three quarters of the program. Students will use the skills and experience gained during the program to complete an emergency management project with a sponsoring organization. The projects are conducted in groups of two students with mentorship from the student’s Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC), consisting of scientific advisors and capstone sponsor as well as the capstone course instructors.

Students register for three capstone classes that occur in three consecutive quarters during their second year: Autumn, Winter, and Spring.

In the first of the three courses, Capstone Project Proposal, students will develop their project. They will turn a problem statement, whether provided by a sponsor or developed independently, into an actionable plan for research. In the second course, Capstone Project Implementation, students will complete the bulk of their research. Even though research may or will have already gotten underway during the first course, students will be completing the bulk of their interviews, surveys, quantitative analyses and / or other data collection methodologies during the winter quarter. In the third and final quarter, Capstone Project Writing & Presentation, students may complete their data collection and will write/revise the final capstone paper, the written deliverable for the sponsor, and a presentation that summarizes their work.

All students must meet standards for satisfactory academic progress as outlined in the Graham Student Manual to begin their capstone project. Students must not be on probation, must not have incomplete courses, and must possess at least a 3.00 cumulative GPA. Because the capstone sequence involves university-industry partnerships, a high degree of professionalism is expected of students during all phases of the capstone project.

Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) Mentorship

The SAC provides mentorship and guidance to student teams throughout the capstone process. The SAC comprises 1-2 MScTRM instructors 1 , who serve as scientific advisors, and at least one representative from the capstone sponsor organization. Even though the scientific advisor and capstone sponsor are both on the SAC and may share certain competencies, they have distinct roles in the guidance and oversight they provide students.

Scientific Advisors

Program staff match MScTRM instructors as scientific advisors to capstone projects based on their subject matter expertise in an area of emergency management. Scientific advisors should be regularly updated on progress on the project throughout the capstone process because they will grade the final capstone paper and presentation. In addition, they can advise students on appropriate sources, methodologies, and perspectives for their projects so that they can produce professionally relevant and rigorous research.

Primary advisors should be available for every meeting to provide guidance and feedback. Secondary advisors will attend meetings if their schedules allow. Both advisors should be included in meeting invites, progress update emails, etc. Both advisors will be grading final paper and presentation at the end of the Capstone Writing and Presentation quarter.

Meetings with scientific advisors should be held each quarter as follows:

• Proposal Course : meet at least three times or approximately once per month to share finalized project scope and solicit feedback and subject matter advice.
• Implementation Course : meet at least three times or approximately once per month to discuss data collection methodologies and preliminary analyses to ensure that high quality research is being conducted.
• Writing & Presentation Course : meet at least three times or approximately once per month to discuss the final analyses, conclusions and recommendations derived from the research to ensure that the final capstone paper and presentation are thorough and rigorous

Capstone Sponsor

The capstone sponsor provides direct oversight and supervision of the student team by guiding the goals and scope of the project. Typically, sponsors are seeking solutions to specific problems or aim to gain an understanding of issues of particular importance and relevance to their work. To ensure that student teams are working according to the expectations of the sponsor, student teams should connect with the capstone sponsor throughout the year. The meetings should occur as follows:

• Proposal Course : two to three times to discuss and set project goals, scope, and deliverables.
• Implementation Course : weekly or bi-weekly to report on findings and progress in data collection and to adjust the goals and scope of the project if necessary.
• Writing & Presentation Course : two to three times to discuss findings and conclusions; and to confirm the structure of the final deliverable for the sponsor 2 .

Capstone Instructors

The capstone instructors will also work closely with students. As social scientists and writing experts, they provide guidance on the research process (generally) including research methods, the structure of the written work, the logic of the analyses and writing. The instructors are there to address confusion, set expectations for the level of work that is required, explain the principles of research, help student teams work together and organize their work, provide advice on how to address the concerns of the SAC and teach principles of writing. Capstone instructors will also meet with students between quarters. Students will meet with capstone instructors as follows:

• Proposal Course : during the monthly course meetings and by student team, at least once a month. Student teams are invited to meet with the capstone instructors whenever they have questions.
• Implementation Course : during the monthly course meetings and by student team, at least once a month. Student teams are invited to meet with the capstone instructors whenever they have questions.
• Writing & Presentation Course : during the monthly course meetings and by student team, at least once a month. Student teams are invited to meet with the capstone instructors whenever they have questions.

Finding a Project

MScTRM staff curate a catalog of projects for student teams and match students to these projects based on their preferences, skills, and professional experience. Even though matching to a project from the catalog is preferred, students may suggest a project idea. Please see below for details on matching to a project and requirements for proposing a project.

MScTRM project catalog

The MScTRM program has academic, industry, and non-profit partners that sponsor projects. Descriptions of these projects will be shared prior to the start of the Capstone Proposal Course. The program staff and MSTR 33301 instructor will facilitate the matching process between organizations and students by initiating an introductory communication between the student and the sponsor. The final decision on whether the student will be matched to the project will rest with the sponsor organization.

Student proposed project

If a student has a relevant project from an employer or network that could be submitted as a capstone project, it must be approved by the MScTRM program staff and the MSTR 33301 instructor. The proposed project is required to be different from day-to-day work duties and must have a detailed scope and goals that address the needs of the sponsor and the field of emergency management. The student team must identify a capstone sponsor who would provide adequate supervision and must work with the sponsor to decide on a final deliverable for the sponsor. If a student is interested in moving forward with an independently proposed project, the project problem statement and description must be submitted in advance of the start of the autumn quarter by the deadline communicated by the capstone project administrator.

Capstone Final Paper

At the end of the spring quarter of the capstone process, student teams will submit a research paper to the MScTRM program. This paper may also be submitted to the capstone sponsor. (Sponsors may require additional, written deliverable(s). See below.) All final papers will have the essential components of an academic paper (e.g., table of contents, problem statement, literature review, methodology, results, conclusion, references, and appendices) and should be no more than 50 pages in length (not counting references and appendices.

Even though every team must submit a final academic research paper as a degree and capstone requirement, students may also be required by their sponsor to develop a written product that is different from the capstone paper. This should be discussed with the capstone sponsor during the Capstone Proposal Course. The following are examples of deliverables which may be requested by a sponsor:

• White Paper - A white paper advocates for a certain technical position or solution/tool (e.g., best practices or guidelines) to address a particular problem.
• Data analysis, research summary and report on results – The specific format should be discussed. with the sponsor.
• Emergency operations plan (EOP) .
• Policy brief .
• Capstone Project Confidentiality –  Some industry partners may also require that students keep certain data and work product confidential, including in some cases the identity of the sponsor. As a condition of participation in such a project, students may be asked to agree to grant such rights to the applicable sponsor and comply with any applicable confidentiality requirements and / or data sharing agreements. If any confidentiality, learning, or data sharing agreements are required, please inform the instructor. Please contact the MScTRM course instructor and program staff if you have any questions or concerns about intellectual property.

During the first quarter of the project (Autumn), students will develop a capstone project proposal. In this graded course, students will complete different sections of the proposal as assignments and will revise their work to produce a strong draft by the end of the quarter. In addition, students will be required to meet with scientific advisors and sponsors on a regular basis. (See below.) All assignments are set by the MSTR 33301 instructor and are included in the syllabus on the Canvas course site. Note: Peers will be asked to provide feedback on the work of their partner. Sponsors will also be asked to provide feedback on the work of the student teams.

Sections of the Proposal

The project proposal includes all of the following sections. (These should be reviewed with your SAC before collecting data in the winter quarter.)

• The problem statement should include a brief description of the emergency management problem.
• Research questions should indicate the goals of the research.
• The background section should provide context for the problem that will be addressed. This could include descriptions of the organizations that may be part of the focus of the research, history of laws that are pertinent to the problem, discussions of emergency management concepts and considerations that are relevant to the problem, and the like. The precise content of the background section will depend on the problem being addressed in the research. Again, the background section establishes the context and the relevant information that would make the problem intelligible.
• The Literature Review includes a review of the relevant literature pertaining to the proposed problem/project. The purpose is to establish what is already known about the focus of research and to determine if there are gaps in the research. The literature review also presents controversies and debates. The literature review can provide the rationale for the research that the TRM student team is undertaking. The precise content will depend on the project.
• The methodology section lays out the anticipated methods that will be used for data collection. It will also include the type of analyses that will be conducted and what type of data will be needed. Methods that have been previously used include, but are not limited to, surveying and interviewing professionals in the field, conducting a case study, reviewing media reports, and analyzing quantitative data.
• A timeline of dates by which each step and milestone will be accomplished should be included, along with a description of any potential obstacles.

Note : Proposals should present a well-defined project, but projects continue to evolve. A proposal cannot anticipate all the insights and challenges that would cause the project to change. However, the proposal still helps to guide the project. As the year progresses, sections of the proposal will be revised and will eventually be included in the final paper.

A project that involves human subjects must be reviewed by the University of Chicago Institutional Review Board (IRB). According to the UChicago Social and Behavioral (SBS) IRB office , human subjects research includes but is not limited to:

• Studies that collect new data through intervention or interaction with individuals (e.g., interviews, surveys) and yield information about the individuals including their opinions, views, and thoughts on various topics (e.g., surveys about alcohol consumption, interviews on experience with active shooter situations),
• Studies that produce generalizable knowledge about categories or classes of subjects from individually identifiable information, or
• Studies that use human beings to evaluate environmental alterations, for example, weatherization options or habitat modifications to their living or working space or test chamber.

Students must submit project details to the capstone instructors by the deadline established and no later than the start of month two of the Capstone Proposal course, see supporting document “MScTRM IRB Review.” The instructional team will aggregate project information and submit to the director of the SBS IRB who will determine whether each project must submit an application online via AURA.

In the winter quarter, the student team will execute the research plan outlined in the capstone proposal. Student teams are expected to spend at least 100 hours on the project throughout each quarter (equivalent to the time spent on a typical 100-unit course), but research can be unpredictable, and more time may be required. This course is graded. To ensure that students stay on track with their data collection and analyses, the MSTR 33302 instructor will require assignments that share preliminary data collection results and analyses. These are included in the syllabus on the Canvas course site. Note: Peers will be asked to provide feedback on the work of their partner. Sponsors will also be asked to provide feedback on the work of the student teams. During the Capstone Implementation Course, students are expected to adhere to the following:

Regular Communication with the Sponsor

The project proposal should include a timeline and description of communication with the sponsor, including how and when check-ins will occur. Students should be checking in with their sponsors on a regular basis, whether that means weekly or biweekly, and in-person or virtually. Students should report any obstacles to fulfilling this requirement to the capstone instructor and program staff.

Regular Communication with Scientific Advisors

The project proposal should include a timeline and description of communication with scientific advisors. Regular communication with the scientific advisor about progress, course corrections, and challenges will help manage uncertainty. Regular meetings with scientific advisors will also help address unexpected outcomes, will help avoid errors in the analysis, and will help strengthen the methods and results. Bi-weekly to weekly check-ins are recommended. Students should report any obstacles to fulfilling this requirement to the capstone instructor and program staff.

Professionalism

All students must abide by the sponsor and University of Chicago standards for professional behavior, appearance, and communications during the capstone sequence. When students are working on their capstone project, they are representing themselves, their group, and the University of Chicago as emergency management professionals. If the expectations are unclear regarding onsite business attire, the sponsor should be contacted before visiting the site. Because capstone projects involve crucial communications with the sponsor and/or with the MScTRM team, UChicago email should be used for all official interactions. Voicemail should be checked regularly for sponsor communication as well.

Even though student teams may still be finalizing data collection and approaches to the analysis, the writing and presentation course in spring focuses on writing and revising the final paper and presentation. Throughout the year, teams will have been writing the project. In the final course of the sequence, student teams will bring together different drafts of the sections of the paper, add new sections and revise where necessary. Students will be graded on assignments created by the MSTR 33303 instructor. Assignments mainly consist of drafts of various sections of the paper. Due dates are included in the syllabus on the Canvas course site. Note : Peers will be asked to provide feedback on the work of their partner. Sponsors will also be asked to provide feedback on the work of the student teams. Requirements include:

Final Paper

To complete the requirements of the MScTRM Program, student teams will submit a final paper. (An additional deliverable for the sponsor may be determined with the sponsor.) Students must MASTER OF SCIENCE IN THREAT AND RESPONSE MANAGEMENT 8 keep in mind that no matter the deliverable for the sponsor, the final paper must include the following elements 3 :

• Table of contents
• Executive summary
• Statement of problem
• Research questions
• Introduction
• Literature review
• Methodology
• Recommendations
• Appendices (as needed)

Final Presentation

All capstone students are expected to develop a presentation of their work and provide a project summary at the MScTRM Capstone Showcase in spring. All team members are expected to speak during their presentation.

Presentation Format and Help

Students will develop the presentation using a PowerPoint template that is accessible on the Canvas capstone course sites. Students are expected to reach out to their SAC to solicit feedback, practice, and fine-tune the presentation. Students should be prepared to rehearse their presentations before the showcase.

Elements of the Presentation

Presentations must include key elements from the proposal and final document such as:

• Brief statement of the problem.
• Recommendations that emerged from the research.
• Brief review of background and the literature review.
• Methodology Results and findings.
• Recap of the recommendations and how they relate to the research.
• Next steps for the organization or field of emergency management.

Capstone Project Grading

The grade for MSTR 33303 Capstone Writing & Presentation will comprise the following elements:

Written document

The final academic research paper will account for a major percentage of the final grade. It is graded by the scientific advisor(s). The final paper and / or the deliverable for the sponsor will be shared with the capstone sponsor.

Capstone Showcase Presentation and Q&A

Scientific advisors will score their assigned presentations during the capstone showcase and provide written feedback. All scores will be averaged and included in the final course grade.

Course assignments as outlined in syllabus by instructional team

Note : The weighting of each component will be outlined on the Canvas capstone course site and syllabus

MScTRM Capstone Project Timeline

Before capstone (summer quarter).

• Attend or review a capstone information session.
• Update resumes.

Capstone Proposal (Pre-Autumn Quarter)

• Review capstone project catalog.
• Complete the Capstone Preferences Survey.
• Complete all pre-quarter assignments as outlined by MSTR 33301 instructor and capstone administrator.
• Complete the capstone checklist.
• Prepare for the IRB process by completing CITI training and applying for an AURA account.
• Get matched with a project.
• Hold introductory meeting with the sponsor, scientific advisors and capstone instructors.

Capstone Proposal (Autumn Quarter)

• Complete all assignments as outlined by MSTR 33301 instructor.
• Regularly meet with the sponsor to finalize project scope, goals for the capstone paper and the deliverables for the sponsor.
• Regularly meet with scientific advisors to receive feedback on sections of the project proposal.
• Submit project information to capstone instructors for determination of IRB application.
• Submit final capstone project proposal.
• Complete peer evaluations.

Implementation (Winter Quarter)

• Complete all assignments as outlined by MSTR 33302 instructor.
• Execute project plan: conduct research, collect data and follow expectations defined in the capstone proposal.
• Check in (weekly or bi-weekly) with sponsor contact.
• Check in (weekly or bi-weekly) with scientific advisors.
• Share assignments with scientific advisors.

Writing and Presentation (Spring Quarter)

• Complete all assignments as outlined by MSTR 33303 instructor.
• Check in with SAC while writing the final paper and presentation.
• Submit final capstone project paper.
• Develop capstone project presentation.
• Present at the MScTRM Capstone Showcase.
• The program may also approve non-MScTRM faculty as a scientific advisor under special circumstances.
• It is possible that the sponsor will request a deliverable that is different from the capstone paper. For more information, please reach out to the capstone instructor.
• Sections may be subject to change. Students should refer to the materials posted on the Canvas sites for the capstone courses by the capstone instructor.
• Developing Skills while Building Industry Connections
• A Foundation to Tackle Anything
• Room to Spare

• WRITING CENTER
• CUSTOMER AREA
• Client Reviews
• Study Guides
• Questions & Answers

GET AN 'A GRADE' WITH OUR CUSTOM WRITING SERVICES!

Are you finding it difficult to complete your assignment while at home because of your home environment are you caught up with so many responsibilities; your family, work trip among others, yet you are expected to complete your homework customwritingservice.org is your homework solution 24/7 get your essay, research paper, thesis, project, report, etc done as per your instructions and within your deadline now.

• Capstone Project Help

How to Write the Introduction of a Capstone Project

We can help write your assignment right now we have helped thousands of students graduate successfully with top grades through our online writing..., are you looking for writing resources because of an assignment you are currently writing would like to partner with us for homework writing since 2009, we have successfully helped thousand of students with their assignments. we can help you right now; simply click on the order button below. if you are looking for study materials for your assignment, scroll down further, are you facing the following challenges we are exactly what you need.

• My Assignment is too difficult.
• I have too many assignment to handle
• I have a health related issue
• My assignment is too urgent
• I lack ideas on how to get started
• I have a family to take care of
• I have no time for my assignments
• I have a job/business to attend to
• I cant seem to get it right with my Professor
• I'm struggling to get resources for this paper

We have carefully selected the following resource to demonstrate our level of writing. If you are looking for a resource to write your paper, use this resource with proper citation. But should you consider to have someone write your paper, click on the ORDER button to get started with us. Thank you.

The significance of the introduction in any piece of writing cannot be overruled. Creativity and skill need to be employed when writing the introduction for a capstone project . There is not a fixed style of writing a capstone project due to the difference in requirements for different studies or institutions. However, below is a general guideline that will help you know How to Write the Introduction of a Capstone Project with ease.

a) Development of the project

State the research question that you intend to investigate in the capstone project research, why and how you settled on the project. To achieve this, demonstrate how the thesis statement is related to the coursework.

b) Position your reader

Help your reader identify with your project through defining different terms and concepts, and focusing on their interest. In addition, point out methods, topics, and sources that will be helpful in achieving the goals of your research. Take advantage to define the scope of your study; it should never be too wide nor too narrow.

c) Highlight a literature review

The literature review plays the role of placing your intended research in context, by showing a relationship between past studies and intended research. It also informs the reader on how well you understand your topic. The survey should however be characterized by analysis as opposed to a summary.

d) Methodology and sources

You need to state the methods that will be used to collect and analyze data for the capstone project. While some projects may require qualitative methods, others may require quantitative methods. For any choice made, you must give a justification.

The credibility of research is based on the sources used. Some studies may require primary data while others may demand secondary data.

e) State the significance of the study and cultivate the reader’s interest

You could capture the attention of the readers by using a hook to introduce the capstone project , or by stating how important your study is in relation to the others.

Would you LOVE to have one of our Writers work on your assignment? Is your assignment on this topic or related to this? We can help! Click on the ORDER BUTTON to get Started.

We have created a system with a unique ordering process that is easy and secure. All you need is click on the ORDER BUTTON provided for in our website. Once the page is open, fill in your assignment details and submit. You will then be redirected to our payment platform, where you can pay via PayPal or Debit/Credit Card. We then start writing your paper; and once complete, the paper is sent to you via contacts provided.

Get Homework Help - Confidentially!

Probably you do not want your institution to know that you are using our services, right we get this concern all the time. the point is, you need help with your homework and we are here to help you as a business; so we ensure that privacy and confidentiality is guaranteed by maintaining communication strictly between you and us via email, live chat, calls or internal messaging system. we also ensure that each paper is uniquely done within your academic level - this helps with ensuring that your professor does not suspect that you hired someone to write your paper. get started with professional writing services for top grades., customers reviews simply tells our story - satisfaction guaranteed, a review section gives you a clear picture of what to expect when you use our services. this section is prepared for first time customers. the section helps customers learn from the experience of other customers..

Have been ordering from as many people online but never gotten A in my career, thanks for your assistance

Added 24 Minutes Ago

Have never believed before that a paper can be perfect unless I write it. I was travelling home for issues back there so I trusted your writer; he did best job ever. Will now come back for more.

Added 12 Hours Ago

I had little time on this one, but writer delivered in time even though it was long paper. paper looks perfect…just some little adjustments on referencing…thank you

Added 30 Minutes Ago

Hey, assignment on black holes needed minds men. Got no time and wondering how if I would make it. Thanks for finishing up on the job

Added 3 Minutes Ago

Lecturer accepted research proposal. Will submit to you more details how to complete the research paper

Added 6 Minutes Ago

Why should you have our professionals work on your assignment, each academic paper is unique in its own way. furthermore, each assignment has different specific instructions as stipulated by the instructor’s thereby key focus in placed on these basic requirements for each academic paper. this is why we offer customized writing services by making sure we customize the paper with regards to customer’s specifications. we also use your preferred sources if you wish so or we get our own sources. the other thing that we do as per your request is the number of words and pages. therefore when giving us your assignment, make sure that provide the instructions as given by your lecturer., free writing tips on our blog, get the best academic tips on how to write different papers free of charge. we are committed to ensuring that you become a stellar writer for better grades. visit our blog now, 24/7 customer support, we understand that your customer needs can arise any time. that is why our professional customer support team is ready to offer you services round the clock. order any time and get professional assistance., progressive delivery option, track the progress of your order any time any day. our professional writers will provide drafts upon request. you can fully trust our delivery process., timely delivery of assignments, do not let others to sacrifice your grades simply because you did not deliver in time. book our services and get your order done within the agreed timeframe. in fact, we deliver even before the deadline hits., plagiarism free papers, be ready to achieve the highest grades with our plagiarism free papers. we write all papers from scratch. all standards of citations and referencing are fully accounted for. we promise fully unique papers for all students., friendly customer care, our customer support team is a click or a phone call away. you will be met with high degree of friendliness any time you contact us. we treat each of our clients with respect and commitment. any time is your best time with our customer support., friendly team of experts, our company is simply a large family of experts dedicated to ensure that you enjoy maximum satisfaction. you can interact with any of our support members or writers with a guarantee of the best experience., confidentiality guarantee, we have for the last over 10 years operated within the best and strict confidentiality policy. we understand that your worry for exposure is immense. no need to worry anymore. we got your back, native english-speaking writers, it is our interest to ensure that you get a paper that has pure command of english grammar. our hiring policy strictly considers native english writers only. you can be assured of top-quality papers any time., multiple payment options, we provide our clients with absolute flexibility in terms of payment methods. we believe that you deserve the best services irrespective of the payment channel you use. pay via paypal, and all major credit cards., editing and proofreading services, we pride ourselves in hosting a team of the most professional editors and proofreaders. all papers are thoroughly scrutinized and refined before being handed to the client. we have zero room for errors., well formatted papers, we believe in delivering conclusive papers while attributing for all the necessary elements. your paper will be properly and rightly formatted based on your preferred style. all you need is to share all instructions and leave everything to us., highly researched papers, we simply do not air arguments without adequate research-based support. our team of professional writers are highly trained to embark on robust research to validate all arguments. it is indeed a sure bet for you., customized writing services, we capitalize in ensuring that all papers are customized based on your preference. we do not deal with ready-made papers. our commitment is to ensure that all papers are articulated and written from scratch., formatting and referencing, our team of versatile writers are able to format your paper based on the preferred style. we are experts in apa, mla, chicago, or any other style. we never get anything wrong as far as formatting and referencing is concerned., urgent assignment options, do not let your urgent assignment to subject you to frustrations. we are here to work on your urgent assignment without compromising quality. we will professionally handle your paper to precision even when the timeframe is stringent., free samples posted online, we understand that you may not have an idea on how to handle the task assigned to you. we therefore provide a lot of free samples in all disciplines. we are the best, money back guarantee, we understand that you have invested some of your money to pay for your assignment. this is enough to demand for money-back guarantee. we promise the best services, failure to which a refund is guaranteed., discounts to returning clients, we hold returning clients with the highest value. any returning client will be surprised with impeccable discounts on their orders. we believe that maximum satisfaction is what that matters to you. but we believe you can still enjoy better experience with lower prices., all subjects covered, we have the privilege of working with the most versatile and more so highly qualified writers. we therefore guarantee that all papers can be professionally handled, irrespective of the subject. any task is a walkover for us., within 3 minutes, you will be have submitted your assignment details for our review, yes, record time 3 minutes and you are done focus on other important issues and allow us to work on your papers. we have simplied the ordering process to increase efficiency on your part. try us today, fill out the order form:.

At this Point, simply submit your Assignment Instructions.

Submit the payment:

Submit your payment for your Order.

Order Processing:

Assignment Processing by both writer and Editors.

ORDER SUBMISSION:

Download your completed Paper.

To Get Started, Click on any of the button provided below!

A list of related papers on this category is provided below.

• Essay Homework Help on Employment-At-Will Doctrine
• Aviation Research Paper on Rolls-Royce Engine Company
• Sample Political Science Paper on Keeping the Republic: Power and Citizenship in American Politics, the Essentials
• Assignment Writing Help on Human Service
• Assignment Writing Help on Museum Comparing
• The Proposal for a Capstone Project
• How to Write a Conclusion Paragraph
• Sample Ecology Essay Paper on Problems Posed by Zika Virus
• Sample Psychology Essay Paper on Rescue Rehabilitation Center (RRC)
• Capstone Project Writing Services
• The Capstone Project Report Writing Guidelines
• Sample Ecology Research Paper on The Sundarban Mangrove Forest
• Essay Writing Help on The Long-Tailed Weasel

Are you looking for Free Academic Writing Resources on How to Write Papers?

• How to Write a Thesis for a Research Paper Examples
• How to Write a Thesis for a Research Paper
• How to write a Personal Cover Letter
• How to Write a Professional Mission Statement
• How to Write a Personal Autobiography
• How to Write a Performance Appraisal
• Tips on How to Write a Rhetorical Analysis Essay
• How to Write a 3.5 Essay Outline With Ease
• How to Write your Own Performance Review
• How to Write a Personal Statement for Graduate School
• How to Write Personal Statement for Scholarship
• How to Write Personal Statement for Residency
• How to Write Personal Statement for Law School
• How to Write Personal Statement for a Job
• How to Write a Personal Statement for College
• How to Write Personal Statement
• How to Write Personal Reference Letter for a Friend
• How to Write a Personal Reference Letter
• How to Write a Personal Profile for University
• How to Write Personal Profile in Resume
• How to Write a Personal Profile for Website
• How to Write Personal Profile for Marriage
• How to Write a Personal Profile for a Dating Site
• How to Write Performance Review Comments
• How to Write an Outline for a Research Paper
• How to Write an Introduction Paragraph
• How to Write an Introduction for a Research Paper
• How to Write an Introduction for an Essay
• How to Write an Introduction for a Book
• How to Write an Introduction About Yourself
• How to Write an Introduction
• How to Write an Expository Essay Step by Step
• How to Write an Expository Essay for STAAR
• How to Write an Expository Essay Thesis Statement
• How to Write an Essay Outline for High School
• How to Write an Expository Essay

An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Climate Adaptation & Hazard Mitigation

Empower emergency management professionals to effectively navigate, plan for, and respond to the impacts of climate change, responding to the defining crisis of our time.

Climate change is a defining crisis of our time. From extreme heat, drought and wildfires to more severe coastal storms and inland flooding, the consequences of climate change are all around us. The emergency management community is increasingly challenged by more severe, frequent, widespread, and costly disasters.

The EMI Climate Adaptation and Hazard Mitigation Certificate offers a dynamic and specialized program designed to empower emergency management professionals to effectively navigate, plan for, and respond to the impacts of climate change. This certificate program, tailored for State, Local, Tribal, and Territory professionals, is structured to provide a balanced blend of foundational knowledge, elective specialization, and practical application through a capstone project.

Upon completion of the Certificate, participants will possess the knowledge, skills, and strategic perspectives necessary to integrate climate change adaptation principles into emergency management practices. This comprehensive certificate program, offered by the Emergency Management Institute of FEMA, equips State, Local, Tribal, and Territory professionals with the expertise to address the evolving challenges posed by climate change and enhance community resilience.

Program Earth Day Rollout

As Earth Day 2024 ushers in a renewed commitment to our planet, EMI is thrilled to announce the launch of our Foundations of Climate Science Independent Study , the first course in the new Climate Adaptation and Hazard Mitigation Certificate Program offered by the Emergency Management Institute. This independent study course lays a critical groundwork for understanding the complex dynamics of Earth's climate system, designed to empower students with the knowledge to not only grasp the scientific underpinnings of climate change but also to effectively engage with the urgent issues it presents.

This course is the first step in our comprehensive certificate program, which will progressively introduce synchronized courses focused on integrating climate change with emergency management principles, strategic communication, and project planning. Currently, the Foundations of Climate Science , and several of the elective courses are the only offerings open for registration, and we are excited about the opportunity it presents for early participants to lead the way.

We look forward to opening the remainder of the Certificate courses to registration throughout 2024. Each course promises to be an engaging, informative learning journey, equipping you with the tools necessary for addressing the challenges of climate adaptation and hazard mitigation. Keep an eye on this webpage for the latest updates on our course offerings and news about the certificate program.

IS-1400: Foundations of Climate Science

Course overview.

This course provides fundamental instruction for participants to achieve basic understanding of climate change concepts. Emphasis will be placed on defining common vocabulary and identifying key concepts. The learner must achieve a minimum passing score of 75% on final knowledge assessments or demonstrate mastery on performance assessments or research assignments to earn the IACET CEU.

Complete Independently

Independent Study (IS)

Prerequisites

Course length.

IS-1400 Course Details

Who Should Apply

The Climate Adaptation and Hazard Mitigation Certificate Program is designed emergency management professionals seeking to enhance their expertise in climate change adaptation, including members of:

• State, local, tribal, and territorial homeland security or emergency services programs
• Nongovernmental organizations voluntary agencies, or professional organizations
• Private sector emergency management offices
• College or university emergency management staff
• FEMA, federal partners, military and emergency managers at other departments or agencies

Professionals who play key roles in emergency planning, response, and recovery will find this program invaluable in addressing the complex challenges posed by a changing climate.

There are no prerequisites for enrolling in the program.

Required Courses for Certificate

The Climate Adaptation and Hazard Mitigation Certificate Program consists of 4 foundation courses , 3 elective courses , and 1 capstone project . The required foundation courses and the capstone project will be taught through courses that are delivered as self–paced Independent Study online courses, online synchronized courses delivered by EMI, and in-person courses at the Emergency Management Institute’s campus in Emmitsburg, Maryland

In addition to the courses completed through EMI, participants will choose 3 elective courses in Emergency Management taught as online synchronized courses delivered by university partners. The elective courses may be completed at any point prior to the capstone project .

All courses and materials will be free of charge to students .

Foundation Courses

Base knowledge and skills in climate adaptation and hazard mitigation

Elective Courses

Elective specialization in climate adaptation and hazard mitigation

Capstone Project

Practical application through a capstone project

How to Apply

Here are the ways you can apply and begin equipping yourself with the tools necessary for addressing the challenges of climate adaptation and hazard mitigation.

In celebration of Earth Day 2024 the Foundations of Climate Science course is now open for registration, and we are excited about the opportunity it presents for early participants to lead the way.

On this date, early participants may also begin registration of their selections from several of the currently available elective courses .

Instructor Led Courses

We look forward to opening the remainder of the Certificate courses to registration throughout 2024. Keep an eye on this webpage for the latest updates on our course offerings and news about the certificate program.

Apply for Climate Certificate

Upon the completion of all requirements in the Climate Adaptation and Hazard Mitigation Certificate program, you will receive a certificate from the Emergency Management Institute detailing your successful completion of the program.

This is a Certificate and not a Certification program. You will not become certified in climate adaptation after completing these courses.

Check back here for further information once the remainder of the Certificate courses are opened for registration.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of this certificate program.

The purpose of the Climate Adaptation and Hazard Mitigation Certificate is to offer a dynamic and specialized program designed to empower emergency management professionals to effectively navigate, plan for, and respond to the impacts of climate change. Upon completion of the Certificate, participants will possess the knowledge, skills, and strategic perspectives necessary to integrate climate change adaptation principles into emergency management practices. This comprehensive certificate program, offered by the Emergency Management Institute of FEMA, equips State, Local, Tribal, and Territory professionals with the expertise to address the evolving challenges posed by climate change and enhance community resilience.

Who is this certificate program designed for?

• This certificate program is designed for emergency management professionals at the State, Local, Tribal, and Territory levels seeking to enhance their expertise in climate change adaptation. Professionals who play key roles in emergency planning, response, and recovery will find this program invaluable in addressing the complex challenges posed by a changing climate.
• It is structured to provide a balanced blend of foundational knowledge, elective specialization, and practical application through a capstone project.
• This certificate program does not require prior knowledge of climate change or adaptation.
• FEMA and DHS employees will be able to take the courses developed as part of the Climate Adaptation and Hazard Mitigation Certificate program.

What topics will be covered in the program curriculum?

Upon completing the program, participants will be proficient in the following Learning Outcomes:

• Apply foundational climate science concepts to assess and understand the impact of climate change on emergency management.
• Integrate climate knowledge into emergency planning to enhance preparedness for climate-related challenges.
• Implement comprehensive risk assessment strategies that incorporate climate considerations.
• Develop and employ adaptive strategies to enhance community resilience, addressing specific climate-related risks.
• Utilize effective communication strategies to convey climate change information in the context of emergency management.
• Foster community engagement through inclusive outreach, ensuring the understanding and collaboration of diverse stakeholders.
• Apply specialized techniques for climate adaptation in emergency management contexts.
• Implement nature-based solutions and coastal hazard assessment tools to mitigate climate-related hazards effectively.
• Analyze and comprehend the social dimensions of climate change and vulnerability.
• Analyze and address equity considerations in climate change planning for emergency management.

How will this program help me address the challenges of climate change in emergency management?

The Climate Adaptation and Hazard Mitigation Certificate program focuses on the practical application of climate knowledge within the emergency management context. Participants will not only gain theoretical understanding but will also develop the skills to integrate and employ this knowledge effectively in their roles, fostering resilience and adaptive capacity in the face of climate change impacts.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in the program?

In total, students who wish to complete the full certificate program will need to complete four required courses , plus three required elective courses chosen by students to fit their learning needs, plus one capstone project .

The courses offered as part of the Climate Adaptation and Hazard Mitigation Certificate are offered in sequence and students will need to complete the following courses to be awarded the Climate Certificate:

• Independent Study Foundations of Climate Science : Understand the basics of climate science to enter the Certificate program with a foundation of science literacy on Earth’s climate system.
• Introduction to Climate Change for Emergency Managers : Explore climate hazards regionally, understand its implications for emergency management, and develop a foundational understanding of climate adaptation strategies.
• Climate Change Communication for Emergency Managers : Acquire skills in effective communication, community engagement, and outreach strategies related to climate change, fostering inclusivity and understanding.
• Project Planning with Climate in Mind : Learn to conduct climate risk assessments, integrate climate considerations into emergency plans, and develop adaptive strategies for community resilience.
• NTED | National Preparedness Course Catalog (firstrespondertraining.gov) ,
• NDPTC Course Catalog (hawaii.edu)
• Capstone Project : Apply what you have learned throughout the program to a capstone project.

What teaching methods and resources will be used in the program?

This certificate program will be taught through courses that are delivered through self –paced Independent Study online courses, online synchronized courses delivered by EMI, online synchronized courses delivered by university partners, and in-person courses at the Emergency Management Institute’s campus in Emmitsburg, Maryland.

All courses and materials will be free of charge to students.

Will there be opportunities for hands-on experience or practical exercises?

Yes, students will have the opportunity to participate in online and in-person practical exercises to apply their learnings in assessing climate risk, communicating about climate change, planning projects with climate change in mind, and integrating climate change adaptation and hazard mitigation.

How long does the program take to complete?

To earn the "Climate Change Adaptation Certificate for Emergency Managers," participants must successfully complete the four required courses, and select and complete three elective courses, and submit a satisfactory capstone project that demonstrates the application of climate adaptation principles to their specific contexts.

The program of the Climate Certificate includes seven (7) courses and one capstone project, including four required courses and three elective courses. Students should complete the seven requisite courses in a 24-month period.

Is this program offered online, in-person, or through a hybrid format?

The courses of the Climate Certificate program will be offered both an online and in-person format. The first course, Independent Study on Fundamentals of Climate Science, is an online asynchronous course and can be taken any time.

What credentials or certification will I receive upon completing the program?

Are there opportunities for networking and professional development within the program.

The forthcoming Project Planning with Climate in Mind course offers an exceptional professional development opportunity for those passionate about climate change. It facilitates networking with like-minded students from state, local, tribal, and territorial (SLTT) backgrounds, fostering a community of practice centered on cutting-edge adaptation strategies. This course is uniquely designed with hands-on exercises that simulate real-world scenarios, enabling participants to apply theoretical knowledge to tangible project planning. Engaging with peers from diverse SLTT agencies not only broadens one’s professional network but also catalyzes collaborative innovation in addressing the multifaceted challenges of climate change. This collaborative environment is instrumental in sharing best practices, pioneering adaptive measures, and paving the way for impactful climate resilience initiatives.

What support services are available to program participants?

• Contact the Independent Study Program Office between the hours of 8:00a.m.-4:30p.m. ET, Monday – Friday, except federal holidays. The call center can be reached at 301-447-1200 or [email protected] .
• Emergency Management Institute - Independent Study (IS) | Inquiries and Feedback (fema.gov)

What sets this program apart from other similar programs?

The Climate Adaptation and Hazard Mitigation Certificate is a unique opportunity at the Emergency Management Institute! As the first EMI Certificate program and the first program to focus on climate change for emergency managers, this Certificate offers an unparalleled opportunity to learn about climate change, climate communications, and climate considerations to integrate into project planning.

The Climate Adaptation and Hazard Mitigation Certificate is an essential asset for emergency managers as it equips them with a nuanced understanding of climate science and its direct impact on disaster risk. It arms these professionals with the knowledge and tools to anticipate climate-related hazards and develop robust adaptation strategies. Understanding the evolving climate dynamics enables emergency managers to effectively plan for and mitigate the effects of extreme weather events, ensuring communities are more resilient in the face of climate change. The certificate not only signifies a commitment to best practices in emergency management but also prepares leaders to navigate and address the complexities of climate-induced emergencies with confidence and competence.

How can I apply for the program, and what is the application process like?

Students can use the following link to complete the IS1400 - Independent Study Foundations of Climate Science course , receive credit and receive a completion certificate.  Once participants have completed the required courses (3 electives, 4  EMI courses, and the Capstone) a single completion certificate will be awarded for entire program.

Further Information

For further inquiries please contact the Independent Study Help Desk:

Independent Study Help Desk

• Office hours are 8:00a.m. – 4:30p.m. ET Monday – Friday
• 301-447-1200
• [email protected]

An official website of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security

• Accessibility
• Accountability
• Civil Rights
• No FEAR Act
• Report Disaster Fraud
• Website Information
• Inspector General

Quick Access

• Careers@SFT
• Staff Intranet
• Student Intranet
• Openings for students and graduates
• PolyU 85th Anniversary
• About PolyU
• Giving to PolyU
• Pao Yue-kong Library
• PolyU A to Z
• Personal Data Privacy Ordinance

• Our History
• Vision and Mission
• The Fashion Gallery
• STORE by PolyU Fashion
• Facts & Figures
• Career Opportunities
• Academic Staff
• Professor of Practice
• External Advisors
• Honorary/Adjunct Professors
• Visiting Staff
• Supporting Staff
• Programme Overview
• JUPAS Applicants
• Non-JUPAS Applicants Year 1
• Non-JUPAS Applicants Senior Year
• International Students
• Mainland Students
• Taught Postgraduate Programmes
• Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme

Programme Information

• Research Postgraduate
• Subject Synopsis

Experience and Opportunities

• Academic Advising
• General University Requirements
• Scholarships
• Student Achievements and Awards
• Partner Institutions
• Outbound Exchange
• Inbound Exchange
• Work-integrated Education
• Summer Internship
• Internship Opportunities
• International Competitions
• Fashion Shows & Exhibitions
• Study Trips
• Career Services
• News and Events
• SFT in the News
• Publications
• e-Newsletter
• Research Direction
• Recent World Leading Publications
• Recent Patents Granted
• Research Seminars

Industry Support

• Employer Services
• Consultancy Services
• Community Services
• Customised Training Programme

BSc (Hons) Digital Fashion X GOELIA Capstone project on Global Branding Strategies

19 Apr 2024

The BSc (Hons) Digital Fashion programme of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University has successfully completed an exciting collaboration with GOELIA , a renowned ladieswear fashion brand in China. Established in 1995, GOELIA was born with a single vision: to craft garments with sincerity that transcend borders. In the past 29 years, GOELIA has dedicated wholeheartedly to fashion using high quality fabrics, carefully designing and sewing, and offering the most reasonable pricing to customers. Since 2022, Goelia has achieved global expansion, connecting with users in over 46 countries and regions worldwide via their website www.goelia1995.com . Additionally, their flagship stores have flourished on a global scale, establishing a presence from China and Singapore to Australia and beyond. The collaboration between the Digital Fashion programme and GOELIA aims to connect PolyU students with the fashion industry in the Greater Bay Area which empowers final year undergraduates through real-world experiences and exposure to the industry in a capstone project on global branding strategies.

The capstone project, ‘Cross Boundaries’, witnessed the collaboration of 30 final year students with GOELIA in a two-phase proposal development competition. In Phase 1, the students conducted in-depth research on GOELIA and proposed innovative initial ideas for the introduction of the brand to two overseas cities, which would contribute to its global expansion plans. Among the 13 initial proposals submitted to GOELIA, 5 proposals were selected in Phase 2 to further fine tune the ideas. Teams were formed to develop more comprehensive branding strategy proposals to compete for the final prize. The selected teams were challenged to develop plans for a branding strategy by creating digital content that aims to introduce the brand to international consumers and enhance the positive image of the brand. We are grateful for the support from GOELIA for this collaboration, including a field trip to their highly digitalised manufacturing facilities at their headquarters in Guangzhou as well as their retail stores, museum and gallery. This trip gave the students the opportunity to have a first-hand understanding of the brand’s history, operations and marketing strategies. GOELIA also coached and supported the selected teams on the production of digital content for this capstone project. Last but not least, we are grateful to the generous cash prizes given to the winning teams that reward the efforts and innovative ideas of the students in this branding strategy project.

This collaboration between the BSc (Hons) Digital Fashion programme and GOELIA represents a significant milestone in linking the industry with our future talents. Integrating academic excellence with industrial expertise, this collaboration has equipped students with theoretical knowledge, practical skills and a better understanding of the fashion industry through the lens of a successful fashion brand.

Sign up for SFT news and e-publications

We use Cookies to give you a better experience on our website. By continuing to browse the site without changing your privacy settings, you are consenting to our use of Cookies. For more information, please see our Privacy Policy Statement .

Your browser is not the latest version. If you continue to browse our website, Some pages may not function properly. You are recommended to upgrade to a newer version or switch to a different browser. A list of the web browsers that we support can be found here

What are you looking for?