capstone project ideas for high school seniors

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

Reviewed by:

Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University

Reviewed: 4/26/24

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

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

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

What Is a Capstone Project?

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

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

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

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

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

Different Between Capstone and Passion Project

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

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

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

How to Find Ideas for Capstone Project

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

Follow Your Interests

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

Use What You've Learned

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

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

Check Feasibility

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

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

Identify Current Issues

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

Consider Community Needs

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

Broaden Your Horizons

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

Look for Inspiration from Previous Projects

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

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

Think About Long-Term Goals

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

Stay Flexible and Open-Minded

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

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

Tips on How to Execute Capstone Project

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

Junior Fall

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

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

Junior Spring

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

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

Rising Senior Summer

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

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

Senior Fall

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

Senior Spring

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

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

Common Mistakes

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

Choosing a Topic That’s Too Broad

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

Choosing a Topic You Don’t Really Care About

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

Not Doing Your Research Properly

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

Not Writing Your Paper in the Correct Format

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

Not Taking Advantage of All the Resources Available

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

Not Proofreading Thoroughly Enough

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

Forgetting to Reference Your Sources

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

Poor Presentation

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

Waiting Until the Last Minute to Start Writing Your Paper

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

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

Ideas and Examples of Capstone Projects

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

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

Engineering

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

Computer Science

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

Information Technology

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Are High School Capstone Projects Required for Graduation?

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

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

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

Final Thoughts

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

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60 Senior Project Ideas for High School Students – 2024

May 13, 2024

Many high school students look forward to the exciting moment of choosing a senior project. This makes sense since senior projects provide opportunities for students to direct what they’ve learned into something they care about, and to take their academic interests beyond the classroom. At the same time, deciding what to pursue can be nerve-wracking. After all the anticipation, when it finally comes time to decide on a project, students might ask themselves, now what ? If you find yourself in this dilemma, or if you could just use some further inspiration, continue reading for a list of 60 senior project ideas for high school students. Once you find a senior project idea that catches your eye, you can always put your own spin on it, or use it to inspire projects on topics outside this list.

What is a senior project?

Put simply, a senior project is a semester-long project you take on in your final year of high school. So, what counts as a senior project? This can vary widely. While different schools have different requirements (for example, some high schools expect students to focus specifically on internship experiences), the assignments tend to be pretty flexible. In the senior project ideas listed below, you will find suggestions ranging from assisting a science researcher, to interning at a local museum, to organizing an academic tutoring program, to helping with community voter registration. The final outputs for senior projects may also vary in form, from guidebooks, to plays, to research papers, and apps.

Considerations when choosing a senior project

Because a senior project is often seen as the culmination of your high school experience, you should choose a topic that reflects your passions and interests. At the same time, it’s an opportunity to develop new skills and challenge yourself as you prepare for your next steps after graduation. Whether you have plans to begin a 4-year university program, enroll in a 2-year degree program , take a gap year , or start a new job, a senior project can prepare you with experience that you wouldn’t receive in your high school classes in an ordinary semester.

Here are a few questions you can ask yourself when thinking of a senior project idea:

• What field or career do you wish to pursue? If you’re not sure, what are 2-3 fields that you could possibly see yourself pursuing at this point in your life?
• What world issues do you care most about? Climate change? LGBTQIA+ rights? Accessible healthcare? If thinking about a particular issue sparks a passion, this could be a great place to start.
• Based on your high school coursework experience, could you see yourself spending extra time on an artistic project? A science-based one? A research paper with a political theme?
• What do you enjoy doing in your free time? Volunteering with kids? Hiking and camping? Dancing? Cooking? Perhaps you can orient your senior project to something that you already know brings you joy.

60 senior project ideas

Below you can find 60 high school senior project ideas, divided into some general categories that might help you focus your search. As you read through, feel free to stick to these exact ideas or use them to inspire other ones.

Business – Senior Project Idea

• Write a printed or virtual guidebook to small local businesses in your area, including descriptions, photographs phone numbers and social media accounts.
• Help a local business with an advertising campaign, through local news outlets and social media.
• Develop a mentorship program to help those who are searching for jobs with resumes, interviews, and cover letters.
• Intern at a start-up based in your area.
• Write a research paper about models for sustainable businesses.
• Organize an after-school program that helps students learn financial literacy.

Community service

• Organize a ride service to bring elderly community members to and from doctor’s appointments, or to provide them with groceries and other needs.
• Volunteer at a local soup kitchen.
• Organize a food drive at your school.
• Create a social media campaign for a local animal shelter to raise awareness.
• Collaborate with a local charity or non-profit with a mission you believe in to organize a fundraiser.
• Collect school supplies and art supplies for families in need.

Creative writing – Senior Project Ideas

• Write and illustrate a children’s book.
• Create a handmade poetry book.
• Intern at a small local publisher or magazine.
• Work to translate a short story or poem to another language.
• Write a screenplay for a short film.
• Start a school literary magazine that accepts student submissions of poems, essays, and short stories. Organize a team so that the magazine can continue after you graduate.
• Organize a peer tutoring program at your school for students who need extra help with writing, languages, or math.
• Construct a free library box in your neighborhood so that more people have access to books.
• Volunteer at a local elementary school to help children with their homework after school.
• Work with a local senior center to teach a foreign language to residents.
• Develop a website or app for students to match with language partners for practicing conversation skills.
• Start a visual or performing arts class for children in your community.

Environmentalism- Senior Project Ideas

• Design and build a sustainable garden.
• Organize a community clean-up day, or a series of community clean-up days, at a local park or waterfront.
• Organize an Earth Day festival at your school. This could involve live music and performance, environmental art displays, local vegetarian food, and sustainable clothing swaps.
• Write a research paper on one thing that contributes to climate change, as well as potential solutions.
• Write a guidebook to local parks and hiking trails so that locals and visitors alike can appreciate these outdoor spots.
• Create a fashion line with all reused materials.
• Research historic sites in your neighborhood or town, and write a printed or online guidebook to these points of local history.
• Record a podcast on the history of one of your hobbies (fashion? sports?) Contact an expert on this history to ask if you can interview them on the podcast.
• Write a research paper on the history of a particular protest movement.
• Write and direct a short play with a contemporary take on a historical event that interests you.
• Create a documentary film on the history of your community (school, town, etc.), and organize a community screening.
• Intern at a local history museum.

Performing Arts – Senior Project Ideas

• Write and record an original song.
• Write, direct, and show a one-act play.
• Organize a community dance performance with student choreographers and performers, featuring a range of different styles.
• Volunteer to help with accessibility needs (theater access, live captioning, etc.) at a local theater.
• Organize a school comedy night or talent show that benefits a charity of your choice.
• Research the history of a film genre, and direct a short film that reflects this genre.
• Intern for a local political newspaper or magazine.
• Volunteer on the campaign of a local candidate.
• Create an online blog to write on a political issue you care about, or write a series of op-eds for a local newspaper.
• Write a research paper on a local problem (housing prices, green space, voting access) that discusses possible solutions to this problem.
• Create a Model UN or Mock Trial team at your school if one doesn’t already exist.
• Help teens and other community members register to vote.

Science and medicine – Senior Project Ideas

• Build a Rube Goldberg machine .
• Work in the lab of a STEM professor at a nearby university who works on a topic you’re interested in.
• Research a community health problem (drug safety, air/water quality, nutritional food access) and develop solutions with the help of local politicians and/or medical experts. Create a research paper, blog, or documentary film on your findings.
• Assist at a doctor’s office or hospital by helping to translate for patients who are non-native English speakers.
• Design an architectural structure (for example, a house or bridge) and build a 3D model.
• Organize a technology support group at your school to make technology more accessible and help with easy tech repairs.

Visual arts

• Design a mural for your school to highlight an aspect of the school culture or commemorate an important moment in its history.
• Intern at a local art museum and learn how to give a tour of its current exhibits.
• Organize the collaborative building of a sculpture at your school made of all reused or found objects.
• Offer to take wedding or senior photographs for those who might not be able to afford a professional photographer.
• Study a famous painter, and then create a series of paintings (or art of another medium) based on, or in response to, their works.
• Create a school-wide photography exhibition, with a theme of your choosing.

Senior Project Ideas – Final thoughts

We hope that this list has sparked inspiration for your high school senior project. Remember that while senior projects are important (and hopefully fun) opportunities to culminate your high school experience, you don’t need to do it all in one project! If you’re inspired by more than one of these project ideas, hold onto them for years to come or pursue them as summer internships .

If you’re interested in more project ideas for high school students, we recommend the following articles:

• 100 Examples of Community Service Projects
• 98 Passion Project Ideas
• 100 Best Clubs to Start in High School
• Persuasive Speech Topics
• High School Success

Sarah Mininsohn

With a BA from Wesleyan University and an MFA from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Sarah is a writer, educator, and artist. She served as a graduate instructor at the University of Illinois, a tutor at St Peter’s School in Philadelphia, and an academic writing tutor and thesis mentor at Wesleyan’s Writing Workshop.

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The Admissions Strategist

Capstone projects for high school students: the ultimate guide.

A capstone project, otherwise known as a culminating project or a senior thesis, is a long-term, substantial assignment that you undertake in your final year of high school. If you are passionate about a particular subject a capstone project is the perfect way to demonstrate that passion to colleges, future employers, and your local community. 

Traditionally, a “capstone” is the final piece of brickwork or stone laid atop a building to complete it. It is the culminating step in a considerable process. For students, a capstone project is similar. It is a crowning achievement to tie together what you have learned in high school . Ideally, your capstone should relate to your academic accomplishments and demonstrate to colleges your mastery of the subject. 

Click above to watch a video on Capstone Projects.

Why are capstone projects important for high school students?

Capstone projects provide numerous benefits to students. Most obviously, they provide dedicated students with the opportunity to demonstrate their academic rigor and mastery of certain subjects. This is extremely useful in the context of college applications. However, there are several other important benefits that you can derive from this experience. 

• You may find that the simple process of designing your own project and carrying it to completion will engender self-belief and the confidence that you can undertake even greater projects. 
• A capstone project pushes you to hone your skills in public speaking, critical thinking, teamwork and leadership, research and collaboration, planning and organization, and many more. 
• You may be unsure of exactly what you want to focus on in college and beyond. 
• A capstone project gives you the chance to experiment with something that has always captured your academic attention. 
• If you are passionate about a hobby or discipline, a capstone project allows you to test whether you want to pursue this passion at a higher level. 
• This project will help solidify your goals and the focus of your academic future.
• One of the most significant aspects of a capstone project is the relationship that develops between mentor and student. 
• Many projects will require supervision or consultation with experts – often your teachers or members of your community. These relationships can provide innumerable benefits both in the long and short term. Tapping into the network of people around you, and showing respect and interest in their expertise will take you a long way. Most professionals love nothing more than discussing their passions with excited young people. 
• It never hurts to get more experts advocating for you and more community figures in your corner!
• Less seriously, senior year can often be a wasted year. You might find that – having already completed your standardized tests, applied to college, and completed most of your important courses – you no longer are engaged with school or required to complete much work. This is often seen as an opportunity for seniors to unwind, but there are dangers associated with this.
• Not least of which is the danger of losing academic momentum and developing poor habits. By undertaking a capstone project throughout senior year, you will be further engaged with schooling and less likely to suffer from the shock of returning to normalcy in freshman fall at college. 

How can a capstone project help you for college admissions?

College admissions is an extremely competitive and increasingly demanding process. As college applications become more and more comprehensive, students and parents have begun to see capstone projects as a way to gain an advantage. Many students are of the mistaken belief that colleges are primarily looking for well-rounded students.

Most high schoolers who are serious about college are encouraged to pursue interests even outside of their passions – you might have been told “you should play a sport, and an instrument, and be in the debate club, and volunteer locally, and travel!”

Apart from being stressful, and unattainable for the majority of young people, this is generally poor advice. Instead, it is better to have a handful of interests or passions that you can demonstrate a prolonged period of dedication to. This is where a capstone project fits in. 

Briefly imagine you are an aspiring scientist, determined to study biology at university. When you are applying to college you want to demonstrate that this passion is a deep one, and that it is a priority for you.

In that context, it makes much more sense to apply your time towards a study of local environmental degradation than towards an unrelated sport, club, or volunteer activity.

Additionally, colleges are becoming increasingly savvy about the affectations of prospective students. Showing a genuine, long-term interest in a particular academic discipline has reemerged as one of the surest ways to gain attention from the leading colleges.

You may also find that your capstone experience was so noteworthy or illuminating that you are inspired to write your personal statements or supplemental essays about it. At the very least, you will find that your capstone project helps tie together your academic pursuits and provides you with a useful narrative structure for college applications and interviews. 

How to brainstorm a capstone project

When sitting down to brainstorm a capstone project, it is important to remember that this is a personal process. It can be useful to study projects done by former students, to see what worked and what did not, and to encourage ideas of your own. But, ultimately, you want your capstone project to reflect your unique skills and interests.

Think about whatever you excel in academically. Or, perhaps, what you have always been passionate about but have long thought didn’t relate particularly to academics. Most importantly, consider what it is you want to focus your higher education and career on, and let that guide your decision.

There are limitless options for capstone projects. The only things to avoid are plagiarism and irrelevancy. Pick something that inspires you and that will provide you with a useful foundation to make the next step. If all else fails, ask people around you!

They may have a better idea of your strengths and weaknesses than you do. A simple conversation with a parent, friend, tutor, or teacher may lead you on a journey you never considered. 

How to find a capstone project

Trying to find an original capstone project can be challenging. In recent years, undertaking a capstone has become quite common with American students. As such, you might find it tricky to come up with an idea that doesn’t seem overdone or, worse, like plagiarism.

However, there is only one you! The composite parts of your interests may be shared by many, but the sum of your interests is unique to you. This means that sometimes you might find your best idea is an interdisciplinary one. 

Let us pretend you are a student who is interested in the environment, American history, and mapmaking. Now, if you were to try to come up with a capstone idea, you might begin by considering a study on the impact of environmental runoff in your local river or an investigation into the roots of different people living in your community.

You might then go online and see that such projects seem unoriginal or trite. Desperate and discouraged you might force yourself into one of these narrow approaches.

However, a better option would be to consider how to weave your many interests into one coherent capstone. For you, this could involve researching the construction and maintenance of wooded paths in your local forest or reservation going back to the precolonial era.

You might interview community leaders, study historical maps and texts, practice cartography, and ultimately enrich yourself in several areas at once. Needless to say, you would also produce a more authentic and unique capstone project. 

Consider: You are multifaceted, and the interactions of those facets are what makes you unique!

How long should a capstone project last?

Broadly speaking, a capstone project is intended to last for the bulk of your senior year. The majority of capstone projects are proposed in the summer between junior and senior year, or early in the fall, and then completed in the spring or summer of senior year.

However, there is no absolute rule here and indeed many schools encourage students to begin working on their capstone projects as early as freshman year. 

While there is no limit to how long you can work on your capstone project, there is a limit on how little. A capstone project by definition should be long-term and extensive. At a minimum, we are talking about several months.

The purpose is to demonstrate to colleges, your community, and yourself that you can undertake a project over a long period of time. This involves many skills that colleges prize, such as time management and planning, prioritization of tasks, determination, and diligence. 

Remember that a good capstone project cannot be rushed. You will likely want to be working on it for at least the bulk of your senior year. 

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How to design your own capstone project in simple steps.

• Proposal – Your big idea! The details of the proposal you will be expected to put forward will be different from school to school, but there are some general guidelines. A proposal should be initiated by the student and put forward to a professor, teacher, or community leader. This proposal should contain an observation and a hypothesis; review of existing literature; a planned study or experiment; and possible problems with the proposal. If the proposal is approved by an expert, you are ready to proceed to the next steps. 
• Anchor Experience – The main event! This is where you actually study something, observe, or conduct research. This may involve any number of things depending on your own project. This experience should usually involve a mentor and prolonged exposure to the subject at hand. 
• Portfolio – Evidence and conclusions of your work! Throughout your capstone project you should maintain a portfolio of all related writing, work, and research. Your portfolio should include any experiments run, observations recorded, or conclusions reached. It is what you will show to colleges to prove your work and what you will be expected to present at the end of your project. 
• Presentation – Defend your thesis or show it off! The final step of most capstone projects involves presenting your work to one or more experts in the field. Oftentimes, this just involves presenting your portfolio to the same teacher who approved your proposal and who has been acting as your mentor throughout. Sometimes, however, it may involve making a presentation before a large group of people and defending your thesis from questions and comments. The exact nature of your presentation will naturally differ depending on your choice of project. 

How to pick the best capstone project

Your capstone project should relate to your intended major . If you plan to study chemistry, don’t do a capstone project on romance literature. If you plan to study American history, don’t do a capstone project on marketing in your community.

If you have not yet decided what to major in or what you want to focus your college education on, then it makes sense to use your capstone project to experiment with something – try on the hat and see how it fits. 

Additionally, you want your capstone project to be something that inspires and motivates you. It is no good picking something that sounds brilliant and earthshaking in theory, but that will in practice bore or frustrate you. That is the surest way to produce poor quality work.

You should assess your own habits and motivations and come up with the best project that fits you. Colleges can usually tell a genuine interest from a manufactured one. Therefore, you should pick something which will allow you to show them your best work in a subject you are deeply immersed in. This will always produce the best results. 

While I have said previously that a capstone project can be a good opportunity to experiment with a possible interest, it is important to briefly elaborate on that to provide better context.

It is an opportunity to expand on a preexisting interest that you are not sure if you want to dedicate your education or career to. It is not an opportunity to manufacture a completely new interest. Remember, a capstone is meant to be the finishing touch on your entire schooling. It should always relate to and expand upon your previous work. 

It is therefore best to pick a capstone project that you function as the final step on a journey you have already been undertaking. If all else fails, consider your interests and passions and go from there. Even if it seems only tangentially related to academia, that would be better than choosing an academically sound project that doesn’t inspire you.

Capstone project examples

Conclusion: capstone projects in high school.

Be sure to discuss your options with your family and educators and consider what options work best for you given practical considerations. 

And, finally, do not be discouraged by the depth of capstone projects. Consider it not as a test to pass or fail, but rather an opportunity to learn, grow, and prove your unique brilliance!

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Best Senior Project Ideas for High School Students + 42 Real Student Examples

A senior project is one of the best ways you can make your application stand out to top schools like Harvard and Stanford. It can tell your story beyond academics. It can demonstrate leadership, ambition, initiative and impact. And it can make an impact on the world.  

Choosing the right senior project can be tough. As a Former Johns Hopkins Admissions Officer and a Senior Strategist at Crimson, I’ve helped hundreds of students do it. In this post, I’ll show you my process for choosing a topic for your senior project. I’ll also show you real examples of senior projects that helped students get accepted to the Ivy League, Stanford, MIT, Duke, and more.

What is a Senior Project?

A senior project is also known as a “capstone project.” It’s a long-term project in which you can explore a topic that interests you outside the classroom. It can take many different forms, including:

• A detailed research paper
• An art exhibition
• A tech invention
• A business or startup
• A community service project
• A social media channel or podcast 

It's all about picking something that resonates with you and showcases your abilities.

The impact of a well-done senior project extends beyond the classroom. It can enhance your college applications by showing your commitment and skills. It can set you apart in an application pool with thousands of academically qualified students. 

Finally, the experience and skills you gain from your senior project can be valuable in future careers.

What are the Benefits of a Senior Project?

Most students applying to Top 20 universities have strong grades and test scores. Academics are important, but they only get your foot in the door. To make your application stand out, you need impactful extracurriculars. This is where a senior project comes in. 

If you’re like most students applying, you won't already have a clear area of excellence in your application, like a national or international accolade. You’ll have to show your excellence in terms of the time and commitment you’ve given to their community. Senior projects are a great way to do this.

With a successful senior project, you can:

• Showcase personal qualities. Since a senior project is entirely yours, it showcases your ability to own and execute a unique project from start to finish. This shows leadership, initiative, and intellectual curiosity — qualities that admissions officers are looking for. A senior project can also show that you’re service-oriented, a creative thinker, looking for a challenge, and can overcome barriers.
• Demonstrate passion and dedication. A senior project shows that you’re passionate about a specific field and can commit to a long-term vision.
• Develop transferable skills. You’ll inevitably learn skills like time management, research, collaboration, or technical skills.
• Become an expert in the subject matter. By going deep into a topic, you’ll develop expertise that you might not get through passive learning.

Remember: Your senior project speaks volumes about who you are and why you deserve a place on campus!

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Best Senior Project Ideas

The best senior project ideas are long-term, unique to you, and measurably impactful. I’ll show you some specific examples of senior projects by students who were admitted to top schools. But first, here are some general ideas to get you thinking.

• Design and implement a community garden, teaching sustainable agriculture practices and providing fresh produce to local food banks.
• Start a state-wide traveling library that reaches underserved communities.
• Develop a series of workshops for senior citizens or underprivileged youth to teach them basic computer skills, internet safety, and how to use essential software.
• Create a campaign to promote environmental awareness and conservation efforts in your community, focusing on recycling, reducing plastic use, or conserving local wildlife habitats.
• Establish a mentorship program pairing high school students with elementary or middle school students to provide academic support, life advice, and positive role models.
• Organize a cultural awareness event that celebrates diversity through music, dance, food, and educational workshops, fostering a more inclusive community.
• Launch a mental health awareness campaign that includes workshops, guest speakers, and resources to destigmatize mental health issues among teenagers.
• Research and implement a small-scale renewable energy project, such as installing solar panels for a community center or designing a wind turbine model for school use.
• Conduct and record interviews with community elders or veterans to preserve local history, culminating in a public presentation or digital archive.
• Develop an art therapy program for children in hospitals or shelters, providing an outlet for expression and emotional healing through creative activities.
• Create a series of workshops for your community focusing on fitness, nutrition, and healthy lifestyle choices, including sessions on exercise and cooking.
• Design and lead a financial literacy course for high school students, covering budgeting, saving, investing, and understanding credit.
• Research and write a book or guide on the history of your town or a specific aspect of it, such as architectural landmarks, founding families, or significant events.
• Start a coding club for elementary or middle school students, teaching them the basics of programming through fun and interactive projects.
• Organize public speaking workshops for students, helping them build confidence and communication skills through practice and feedback.
• Coordinate a STEM fair to encourage girls in elementary and middle school to explore science, technology, engineering, and math through hands-on activities and demonstrations.
• Produce a documentary film that explores a social issue relevant to your community, such as homelessness, addiction, or education inequality.
• Lead a project to refurbish a local playground. Fundraise, design, and collaborate with city officials to provide a safe and enjoyable space for children.
• Set up an ESL (English as a Second Language) tutoring program for immigrants and refugees in your community to help them improve their English skills and better integrate into society.
• Design and implement an anti-bullying campaign for your school or community, including awareness activities, support resources, and strategies for prevention.
• Organize a sustainable fashion show that promotes eco-friendly fashion choices, upcycling, and local designers, raising awareness about the environmental impact of the fashion industry.
• Start a podcast, blog, Youtube channel, or social media channel about a topic that interests you. Aim to reach a national or international audience.
• Start a club at your school and build its impact beyond your own school ecosystem.
• Start a campaign around an issue you care about and create change at your school, like “Meatless Mondays.”
• Create a competition for innovative startups
• Develop a product or service and sell it online. Create a business plan, marketing materials, and a way to track your progress.
• Fundraise for an existing charity or nonprofit.
• Found a new charity or nonprofit.
• Create or raise money for a scholarship fund.

Successful Real Senior Project Examples

To help you get a clear picture of what your senior project could look like, I’m going to share some actual senior projects that Crimson students have done. Below are 13 real examples of senior projects by students who were accepted to top universities like MIT, Stanford the Ivy League, Johns Hopkins, and UC Berkeley.

Business & Finance 

Student accepted to mit.

Impact: Local

This student trained 24 unique groups (120+ people) to create innovative startups for 3 competitions. They also created a 15-lesson curriculum and online team-matching algorithm for the competitions.

Student accepted to Stanford

Impact: International

This student founded an organization to educate K–8 students on social entrepreneurship. It grew to 32 chapters with 12,453 members in 4 continents. It was endorsed by the UN, LinkedIn, and InnovateX.

Student accepted to UC Berkeley and USC

Inspired by a college business case competition, this student focused his senior project on creating a business competition for high school students. He invited students from 8 local high schools and had 500 participants. He also arranged judges from a widely-known bank and a university. To leave a lasting impact, he created an executive board within his high school so this event will continue after he graduates.

Social & Political Sciences

Student accepted to harvard.

This student created a 501(c)(3) nonprofit for equitable public speaking resources. They also held a public speaking-themed summer camp for 70+ students and raised $2,000 for a local speech center.

Student accepted to Yale

Impact: Statewide

This student coalesced over 15 assault prevention organizations to develop two bills for the 2023 Oregon legislative session. Their effort instituted a $20 million education grant program and youth network.

Medicine & Healthcare

Student accepted to brown.

Impact: National

This student produced and edited 140+ mental health articles to uplift youth. The articles got over 12,000 reads. The student also hosted a podcast interviewing women leaders with over 40 episodes.

Student accepted to Carnegie Mellon

Impact: Local and National

This student built a COVID outbreak detection platform with ML. It got over 10,000 views. They also prototyped a compact translation tool with Michigan hospitals for non-native English speakers.

This student designed a chemotherapy symptom-tracking app to improve treatment. They then pitched it to industry experts and won Best Elevator Pitch of over 70 teams.

Student accepted to Cornell and Johns Hopkins

This student knew she wanted to major in biomedical engineering. She created a children’s medical book series called “My Little Doctor” to teach young kids how to address emergencies, wounds, and household medications. The books included personal illustrations, which also showcased her artistic talent. The books were sold by 150 doctor’s offices throughout NYC.

Math & Computer Science

Student accepted to columbia.

This student programmed AI to patrol an endangered turtle nesting site using drones. They partnered with a resort, launched an open source platform, and expanded the project internationally.

Student accepted to Dartmouth

This student worked on the solidity development of crypto currencies, NFTs, DAOs, DApps. They were responsible for project, client, and social media management. They also supervised 3 employees.

This student created a virtual musical theater camp for kids ages 6-12 during the COVID-19 pandemic. They managed the camp’s Instagram, website, and Facebook. They taught 25 kids and produced 5 shows.

Student accepted to Harvard and Brown

This student founded an organization to make music education accessible. It included a lead team of 35 members. It grew to 9 branches in 7 countries, impacted 15,000 students online, taught 1.6k lessons, and saved parents $40K. It raises $10k annually. This student was a TD Scholarship Finalist, YODA, and SHAD Fellow.

What are the criteria for a successful senior project?

If you only take away one thing from this article, let it be this: The best senior projects are personal to you and have a measurable impact. When you are contemplating a senior project idea, ask yourself:

• “Am I interested in this topic?” As in, interested enough to spend the next year thinking a LOT about it.
• “Can I show a measurable impact with this project, preferably at the local, national, or international level?”

Let’s use tutoring as an example. Tons of students include tutoring on their applications as one of their extracurriculars. Does tutoring pass the test if we ask our two questions?

• Am I interested in the topic? If you’re tutoring in a subject you love, the answer could be a yes.
• “Can I show a measurable impact with this project?” This one is tricky. Of course, tutoring one or even a few students makes an impact on the lives of those students. But is the impact local, national, or international? Not exactly.

So instead of tutoring a few students on your own, maybe you can create a tutoring club with 30 tutors supporting 100 students at your school. If you want to expand your impact, you can bring your tutoring services into an elementary school or into other schools in your community. You can even create a charter and get your tutoring club into high schools throughout the country, world, or online.

By thinking bigger, you can turn most conventional extracurricular ideas into an impactful, standout senior project idea.

How to Choose a Topic for Your Senior Project

I’ve helped hundreds of students develop successful senior projects. This is the process we use:

• Make a list of your major interests. These could be academics, hobbies, anything! 
• Now write down problems or areas of exploration that relate to those interests.
• Narrow down your choices to one or two that are academically relevant, relevant to your interests and goals,  interesting enough for you to explore, and have enough published data.
• Identify a problem that you can address in this area with a solution that you identify. This will be the subject of your senior project!

Let’s walk through these steps using a hypothetical student as an example.

Senior Project Topic Brainstorm Example

• List interests.  

Maya is a junior with dreams of attending an Ivy League school. She's always been fascinated by environmental science, particularly renewable energy sources. She also enjoys coding and app development. Outside of academics, Maya volunteers at a local animal shelter and is an avid runner.

• List problems or areas of exploration related to those interests.  

For environmental science, Maya is concerned about the inefficiency of current solar panels in low-light conditions. 

In coding, she notes the lack of user-friendly apps that promote environmental awareness among teens. 

Her volunteering experiences make her wonder how technology can assist animal shelters in improving animal adoption rates.

• Narrow down the choices.

After considering her list, Maya decides to focus on environmental science and coding, as these are her academic interests and she sees herself pursuing them in the future. She finds the intersection of these fields particularly interesting and ripe for exploration. Plus, she discovers ample published data on renewable energy technologies and app development, confirming the feasibility of her project idea.

4. Identify a Problem and Solution

Maya identifies a specific problem: the gap in environmental awareness among her peers and the lack of engaging tools to educate and encourage sustainable practices. She decides to address this by developing a mobile app that gamifies environmental education and sustainability practices, targeting high school students.

Senior Project: EcoChallenge App Development

Maya's senior project, the "EcoChallenge" app, aims to make learning about environmental science fun and actionable. The app includes quizzes on environmental topics, challenges to reduce carbon footprints, and a feature to track and share progress on social media, encouraging collective action among users.

Project Execution

Over the course of her junior year, Maya dedicates herself to researching environmental science principles, studying app development, and designing an engaging user interface. She reaches out to her environmental science teacher and a local app developer for mentorship, receiving valuable feedback to refine her project.

Outcome and Impact

Maya presents her completed app at her school's science fair, receiving accolades for its innovation, educational value, and potential to make a real-world impact. She submits the EcoChallenge app as a central piece of her college applications, including a detailed report on her research, development process, and user feedback.

The Bottom Line

Your senior project can be one of the most important pieces of your college application. It can also make a difference in the world. 

As you shape your senior project, see how many of these elements you can apply to it:

• Makes measurable impact. What does success look like, and how will you measure it?
• Presents an innovative solution to an existing issue. Is this solving a problem?
• Is oriented to the community. Is this making my community/country/the world a better place?
• Is interdisciplinary. Can I blend more than one of my interests? Can I get professionals from other fields to collaborate on this project?
• Is related to your field of study. Will this make my academic interests clear?

Basically, think about something you care about. Take it beyond something standard and ask, “What can I do that would allow me to help my community and leave a greater impact?”

Even after reading all these examples, I know that choosing an idea for your own senior project can be tough. If you need help choosing and executing a standout senior project, book a free consultation with one of our academic advisers. Crimson’s extracurricular mentors can help you combine your interests into an impactful senior project that makes you stand out to top college admissions officers.

Building The Perfect Application

Passion projects and extracurriculars are just one piece of the puzzle. It could be difficult to navigate the ins and outs of the college admission process, but you don’t have to go through it alone.

Working with an expert strategist is a surefire way to perfect your application. Students working with our strategists are 7x more likely to gain admission into their dream university.

What Makes Crimson Different

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Let your passion project be your ticket to a top university!

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Capstone Projects for High School Students

Padya Paramita

February 10, 2020

As colleges get more and more selective, you might be worried about how you can stand out among the thousands of talented candidates. One useful tip to keep in mind is that admissions officers want students who are truly passionate about what they do and have gone above and beyond to demonstrate their interests. If you’ve got an academic subject, topic, or even hobby that you love, consider taking on one of the many possible capstone projects for high school students . 

It’s never too early to start brainstorming, especially when considering broad fields such as biology and economics. Finding a specific topic that relates to you personally is especially important with interests such as writing and art that are common for many applicants. To guide you through the process, I have outlined what exactly is meant by capstone projects for high school students , provided some topic suggestions to give you an idea of what yours might look like, and finally, outlined how your project can benefit your chances in the college admissions process. 

What is a Capstone Project?

Capstone projects for high school students can take many different forms, depending on the topics that resonate with you, and what is feasible based on your location and the time you’re willing to spend. If you’d like a more concrete way to convey your skills, effort, and knowledge in a certain discipline, carrying out a capstone project - usually finished at the end of the school year - would be an effective way to reflect your interest. Throughout the project, you should make a plan, conduct research, maintain a portfolio if applicable, keep track of your progress, and finally, present it.

Students usually carry out these projects individually, but sometimes, depending on the breadth of the topic, form a group. You might want to find a mentor as a resource, though it’s not required. Choose a mentor who offers expertise in the field. For example, your history teacher can assist you on a paper about World War II, while your English teacher should be your go-to if you’re working on a poetry collection.

Once your project is ready, you should present your hard work in a form that makes sense for the field of your choice. Capstone projects for high school students could come to life in the form of a paper, video, public presentation, or something even more specific such as an app or book. You might submit it to a panel of your teachers or supervisors for a grade if applicable.

Brainstorming Topics for Capstone Projects for High School Students

Brainstorming capstone projects for high school students can be difficult. Where do you even start? Narrow down topics based on your intended major, career interest, or a problem in your community you’d want to tackle. You could even find an academic approach to one of your favorite extracurricular activities!

The project can take many forms. If you’re interested in studying filmmaking, you could create a short movie or documentary. If you’re conducting biological research, you could write an academic paper and try to get it published. Check out the following table, which we’ve divided up by fields, in order to inspire ideas for your own initiative as you continue brainstorming capstone projects for high school students . 

As you can see, there is a world of possibilities. Your projects can also be on a relatively small scale if you don’t have the resources or the time. If you have multiple interests, you can combine various fields, such as art and business, engineering and biology, writing and social justice. If you’re thinking about pursuing one of these capstone projects for high school students , carefully consider what you can genuinely put the most effort into and create something that is unique to you!

How Can a Capstone Project Help You in the Admissions Process?

You might be wondering whether conducting capstone projects for high school students helps with your college applications. If done well, such work can impress admissions officers, as it would show that you aren’t afraid of taking initiative. If you work on the project with a team, this could be a great demonstration of your leadership and collaboration skills. Over the course of your work, depending on your project, you can also hone your research, writing, and public speaking skills. 

Colleges appreciate students who are specialized in one or two particular areas. Starting your own capstone project can effectively emphasize your passion for your major or prospective career. Considering that you will probably work very hard on the project and that it might end up having a deep impact on you (and vice versa), you could find yourself writing your personal statement or supplemental essays on the experience. Having worked on a project like this would portray clear ambition on your part. Admissions officers would get a strong impression of the ways you would contribute to the campus community. 

At the end of the day, the sole purpose of your project shouldn’t be just to boost your application profile. Genuinely work hard on your project and make sure your reasons behind pursuing it are convincing. Admissions officers will organically get a sense of your intellectual pursuits and commitment to creating something beyond what’s expected out of your academic interests. 

Capstone projects for high school students not only convey your passion towards a field, but they help you develop and hone skills that can benefit you throughout the rest of your life. Remember, that taking on such a project requires time, dedication, and patience, so don’t tackle something huge unless you can handle it. But if you commit to it with enthusiasm and determination, your efforts can go a long way toward increasing your knowledge, impressing colleges, and positively contributing to your community. Good luck!

Tags : what is a capstone project , excelling in high school , projects in high school , applying to college , capstone projects for high school students

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What are Capstone Projects? The Complete Guide to Capstone Projects in High School & Middle School

In athletics, there are competitive matches; in the performing arts, there are stage performances. If you imagine school as a series of practices, capstones are the “big game”.

They provide an opportunity for learners to get their ideas out into the world by working on a project they are passionate about while making an impact on their community.

Already know about Capstones? Skip to Capstone Project Ideas

Looking for advice skip to capstone project tips, what are capstone projects, capstone project definition.

A middle school or high school capstone is a culminating experience where students design and execute a significant and impactful project, often in their final academic year. This project requires students to apply knowledge and skills from various subjects while addressing real-world issues.

A typical capstone project includes the following stages: research, planning, execution, iteration, and presentation. It aims to showcase a student’s critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills while fostering a deep understanding of the subject matter and its practical applications.

Projects can take various forms, such as a product or service prototype, a community service initiative, an action research paper, a multimedia presentation, or a performance, depending on the educational context and the student's interests.

Why Capstones?

The value of capstone projects extends beyond academic requirements. They provide a platform for students to delve into their passions and take ownership of their educational experience. As students immerse themselves in these projects, they not only contribute to their personal growth as well-rounded students, but they also make valuable contributions to their communities.

Capstones provide an opportunity for students to learn for the sake of learning, where research is rooted in what they are actually interested in, and where all of the foundational skills built in prior years suddenly have relevance. They serve as a bridge between classroom learning and real-world application, empowering students to demonstrate their readiness to embark on their next chapter, whether that be in higher education or the workforce.

How Capstones Improve Learning

Capstones create meaning in a learner’s life that can be transformational. Our philosophy at Unrulr is: when learners see the relevancy of learning a technical skill— and it's documented, shared, and celebrated—they're going to learn it at a much faster rate than had they not seen the relevancy. Also, the data shows that capstones or senior projects can help 12th graders avoid "senioritis" by providing students with a reason to remain engaged.

The main goal of capstone projects is to promote comprehensive learning. They aim to nurture a wide range of 21st century skills that go beyond subject-specific knowledge:

Application of Learning: Capstone projects bridge the gap between theory and practice. They encourage high school students to apply what they've learned in various subjects to real-world situations, enhancing their understanding and retention of knowledge.

Deepened Understanding: By immersing themselves in a specific topic of interest, students gain a deeper understanding of complex issues and nuances that traditional classroom settings may not fully capture.

Interdisciplinary Learning: Capstone projects often require high school students to draw from multiple disciplines to address multifaceted challenges. This interdisciplinary approach nurtures a holistic view of problems and solutions.

Research Skills: Students develop research skills, from conducting literature reviews to collecting and analyzing data to interviewing key stakeholders, fostering a foundation for academic and professional pursuits.

Critical Thinking: The complexities of capstone projects demand critical thinking. Students learn to evaluate information, assess perspectives, and make well-reasoned decisions.

Problem-Solving: Engaging in capstone projects hones problem-solving abilities. Students encounter obstacles, experiment with solutions, and adapt strategies as needed.

Creativity: Students have the opportunity to explore creative solutions and innovative approaches, encouraging imaginative thinking and originality. Additionally, students have the opportunity to work on creative projects, such as art installations or performances.

Communication: Capstone projects teach students to effectively convey ideas, findings, and progress. Students refine skills in expressing complex concepts, adapting messages, collaborating in teams, and delivering confident presentations. Additionally, regular reflection moments foster self-awareness and a deeper understanding of their journey.

How Capstones Help Students Get Into College

In an increasingly competitive landscape, college admissions seek students who exhibit not only academic prowess but also a commitment to growth and a willingness to embrace challenges. High school capstone projects provide a perfect platform for students to stand out.

Learners are able to showcase evidence of who they are and what they've worked on. Regardless of GPA or SAT score, when a college can see who a learner is and what they're capable of— what they care about— it’s so much more valuable than just a narrative essay.

When detailed in college applications, capstone projects showcase a student's dedication, initiative, and ability to see a long-term project through to completion. Admissions officers recognize that these projects demand a level of commitment and resilience that goes beyond standardized testing, and indicate a student's potential for success in college and beyond.

How Capstones Prepare Students for Life After Graduation

High school capstone projects have a significant advantage: they mirror the demands of the real world. From project planning and research to time management and effective communication, students gain practical skills that extend far beyond their classrooms. The collaborative nature of many capstone projects also cultivates teamwork and interpersonal skills, essential in today's interconnected world.

Also, capstone projects often require students to engage with their communities. This engagement nurtures civic responsibility and a deep understanding of the societal impact of their work. As they identify and address real issues, students learn the value of empathy, cultural awareness, and ethical decision-making—these are critical SEL skills.

We’ve seen capstones and the work that's come out of them be used for jobs and internships. A learner is able to showcase what they've built and how they worked on it. When projects are documented, this kind of evidence is appealing to potential employers, and can be more impactful than a generic resume that blends in with the rest.

Capstones can build confidence for learners by providing an opportunity to test out ideas in the safe environment of a school. Learners can launch entrepreneurial ventures, lead impactful campaigns, or champion social justice initiatives, and then they can carry that forward after graduation and into their future careers.

Real-World Capstone Example: Student Farmers Market

“Don’t let your age stop you." - Chris Blake (Trinity's teacher)

Trinity embarked on an environmental science capstone project during her senior year. Her challenge was to enhance the school's sustainability. She identified a major issue faced by her school and the larger community: the heavy reliance on imported food in Hawaiʻi.

Empowered by the agency to choose her own direction, Trinity initiated an on-campus, student-led farmer's market. Through this endeavor, she honed various skills, even delving into web design to create a  website for the market. This experience ignited her passion for sustainability and farmers markets. It also boosted her self-confidence and taught her to leverage her age to her own benefit.

After graduating and attending a youth entrepreneurship summer camp, Trinity co-founded Mauka Market , the world’s first regenerative e-commerce and pop-up marketplace. Trinity's journey has culminated in her sole ownership of Mauka Market.

To learn more about Trinity's inspiring journey, listen to our podcast episode .

Capstone Project Ideas

Here are a few more examples of middle school or high school capstone project ideas that highlight some of the possibilities:

1. Design a Sustainable Energy Solution for the School | STEM

Students in this project might investigate renewable energy sources, conduct energy audits, and propose innovative ways to reduce the school's carbon footprint and stem environmental degradation. They could then design and build wind turbines or set up solar panels and analyze the cost-effectiveness of their solutions.

2. Create a Social Impact Documentary | Humanities

Students interested in social issues might create a documentary that sheds light on a particular challenge in their community, such as mental health challenges or food insecurity. They would conduct interviews, gather data, and present their findings through a compelling film that raises awareness and encourages change.

3. Curate an Art Exhibition | Arts

Artistic students could curate an art exhibition that explores a specific theme, technique, or art movement. They would select artworks, write artist statements, and design the exhibition space to convey a narrative to visitors. Student could be encouraged to collaborate with their peers to coordinate a larger art show, providing the opportunity to develop their communication and cooperative planning skills.

4. Establish a Community or School Garden | Community Service

Students interested in a community service project might initiate a project to establish a local community or school garden. They would plan the garden layout, engage the community (or school), and document the garden's development, from seed planting to harvest. For an added STEM component, students could try different methods of gardening across multiple plots and collect and analyze data on growth rates.

5. Launch a Student-Run Business | Business & Entrepreneurship

Entrepreneurial students might start a business within their school, such as a student-run café or an online store. They would handle all aspects, from market research and product development to marketing and financial management.

Personalizing Student Projects

Keep in mind, projects should be personalized to the interests and skillset of each student, while also taking into account your learning community's unique learning objects or portrait of a graduate. A well-planned capstone experience will help prepare students for college and their professional careers. Devoting class time to guide students through introspection and identity reflection will significantly aid in preparing them to generate project ideas that hold personal meaning and captivate their interest.

How to implement capstone projects

Successfully integrating capstone projects with your learners involves several crucial stages:

1. Ideation Encourage learners to explore their interests, identifying topics that resonate with them. In addition, have students consider what impact they want to create in their community. This phase is about sparking curiosity and allowing them to select projects that will hold their attention over the course of a semester or year. For a helpful exercise you can run with your students, check out our Heart, Head, and Purpose lesson plan .

2. Research: Guide students in conducting thorough research related to their chosen topics. This phase is essential for building a strong foundation of knowledge and understanding, which will inform the entire capstone journey.

3. Project Management & Planning: Teach project management skills that enable students to break their projects into manageable steps. Encourage students to create a quarter, semester, or year-long plan, depending on the duration of the capstone project. This stage emphasizes effective organization and time management, ensuring that progress remains steady.

4. Project Implementation & Documentation: This is the heart of the capstone journey. Students actively work on their projects, translating ideas into tangible outcomes. Simultaneously, they document and reflect on their progress, challenges, and successes to create a comprehensive record to draw from during their final presentations.

5. Final Presentation/Showcase: Offer students the opportunity to present their finished projects to an audience of key stakeholders at a culminating showcase event. This stage hones communication and public speaking skills, allowing learners to articulate their findings, insights, and the learning journey itself.

6. Reflection & Assessment: After completing their projects, encourage students to reflect on the entire experience. This process aids in recognizing personal growth, skill development, and the challenges overcome. Use these reflections to assess the overall effectiveness of the capstone process.

By carefully guiding learners through these stages, you create a structured and meaningful capstone experience that fosters skill development, critical thinking, and self-confidence.

Tips for running capstone projects

Sold on capstones? Here are our tips for running successful capstone projects:

Tip #1: Cultivate skills ahead of senior year (or 8th grade)

Begin laying the groundwork for capstone success by nurturing essential skills well before students reach their final year.

By initiating skill development at an earlier stage, educators can effectively equip learners with the capabilities and confidence needed to excel in their culminating project.

Tip #2: Implement weekly check-ins for clear progress tracking

Consider incorporating a weekly check-in system to keep tabs on your learners' progress. It will be the first time that many students will be embarking on a long-term project or being tasked with transforming their ideas into tangible realities. This transition can be overwhelming. To smooth this process, offer supportive scaffolding and introduce project management concepts.

By establishing weekly check-ins, you create a valuable framework for following your learners' progress and providing timely guidance.

Tip #3: Embrace your learners' identities, skills, and passions

A crucial aspect of capstone success is aligning it with your learners' unique identities, backgrounds, and life experiences. To do this, foster a culture of openness and trust through thorough ideation and an emphasis on vulnerability. Give ample space for learners to explore their interests, skills, and capacities, as well as the problems they aspire to solve in the world.

By dedicating time to these aspects, you enhance the overall value of the capstone experience.

Tip #4: Foster a capstone community

It’s important to engage essential players within the school ecosystem as you shape your program. This includes collaborating with college counseling, admissions teams, and the advancement office to facilitate mentorship opportunities for students. Equally vital is the participation of department heads (e.g. English and Social Studies) to co-create rubrics and align essential components of the capstone experience. By seamlessly weaving these elements into the fabric of existing courses, you create a continuous connection from ninth grade to twelfth grade.

Consider organizing several exhibition days throughout the capstone journey, rather than just at the end, to ensure that key stakeholders in a learner's academic journey remain informed and involved in the capstone experience. Capstones possess the remarkable potential to transform learning into a truly community-driven endeavor.

Unrulr: The ultimate capstone tool

Unrulr addresses a common challenge for capstone educators: how to monitor students' progress without overwhelming them with assignments and rigid milestones.

Unrulr empowers students to shape their capstone narratives and share their ongoing progress by documenting the evolution of their projects and capturing their reflections throughout their learning journey.

Learners can delve into each other's posts and reflections and add comments, transforming their capstone experience into an active and collaborative community.

Book a demo or create an Unrulr account today.

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Best Senior Project Ideas

Gelyna Price

Head of programs and lead admissions expert, table of contents, what is a senior project, exactly, the benefits of completing senior projects, types of senior projects, the best senior project ideas, how to choose your senior project, senior projects can be important.

Stay up-to-date on the latest research and college admissions trends with our blog team.

The senior project has almost become a rite of passage many students have anticipated for several years. The long-awaited experience can make many seniors nervous because they may suddenly realize that they aren’t sure what to do for their project!

It’s easy to get so caught up in finding the best senior project ideas that time flies, and seniors get into a time crunch. However, many incredible ideas for the best senior projects are just waiting to be chosen.

Senior projects are meant to be long-term projects that allow high school students to step outside of what their high school classes teach. They can express themselves by exploring something that ignites their passion. These projects can help students develop several types of skills, including:

• Research 
• Writing 
• Presentation and speaking 
• Problem-solving 
• Time management 

While these projects can take endless versions and forms, they generally involve some combination of research and presentations.

Hundreds of different types of projects can qualify as senior projects. They can include months of research, the students’ special talents, passionate service to their home communities, or hands-on activities. 

They could be hefty science projects or light-hearted illustration collections. They can be novels written by the senior over a long period of time or in-depth presentations after months of research on something near and dear to the senior.

The best senior projects are culminating experiences for students. They are opportunities for seniors to take the knowledge and skills they have honed throughout their academic careers and apply them to real-world issues, interests, problems, or passions. Completing senior projects offers several benefits.

They can help students explore their interests as they prepare to enter college or begin their careers after high school. 

How Are Senior Projects Good for College Application Resumes?

Are senior projects good for college application resumes? Yes! When you work on your senior project, you can use the project to practice skills you’ll use in college or your career. 

Some of those skills are meeting deadlines, managing your time, working independently, and practicing diligence and self-discipline. Your senior project can also be an excellent way to pad your college applications .

You Can Learn New Skills

In addition to allowing you to hone your current skills, your senior project can encourage you to learn new skills. Senior projects are awesome opportunities for learning skills that will be valuable in college and beyond, especially with researching, writing, presenting your project, or learning to use new software.

You Can Explore Interests

You may have known for years what your senior project will entail, or maybe it’s now down to the wire, and you still have no clue where to begin narrowing down your options. 

Either way, now is the time to explore your interests and learn more about what you’re curious about, what’s relative to your future career, or what you have never heard of before!

It’s a Chance to Learn from Experts

Whether you research at the library or conduct interviews with historical figures (or anything in between), you’ll have the opportunity to learn from experts in your project’s subject.  

Give Back and Get Involved

The best senior projects are often excellent vehicles for students to engage with their communities. Many seniors choose projects that address an issue that is important to them and that are local, directly impacting their hometowns. For that reason, a senior project can allow you to make a difference in your community.

There are four basic types of senior projects, including:

• Presentation projects
• Creative writing projects
• Professional career projects
• Service-related projects

While each category has some unique features, they all offer the same general benefits to seniors.

Presentation Projects

These projects are very popular with seniors because the category is quite broad. Presentation projects include creating something visual to teach the audience the subject of the project. This can include science project results on a poster board, a musical performance, showcasing artwork, singing, or acting in a play. 

Creative Writing Projects

Creative writing senior projects involve material and information communicated through the written word. They can incorporate play scripts, essays, short tales, poems, or something similar. 

Students can study, research, and write either fiction or non-fiction pieces, making creative writing senior projects almost limitless in scope. You might consider a creative writing project if you are passionate about language.

Professional Career Projects

Some students choose to do a senior project that incorporates job shadowing or working as an assistant in a field they enjoy as part of experiential learning. Whether they choose a medical career, law enforcement, or anything else, they craft a report or presentation on what they learned.

Service-Related Projects

Students who are involved or want to get involved in their communities might choose service-related senior projects. These involve planning or participating in anything from setting up a clothing drive for the homeless or a toy drive at Christmas to volunteering at the local rehabilitation center or nursing home. 

Some of the best senior projects are unique, personal, and in-depth. Yours should be worked on over several weeks or months. 

Consider the list below if you’re looking for a unique senior project idea that hasn’t been done every year for the last 30 years. Some excellent unique senior project ideas include:

• Developing a new software application
• Working with a reporter or photographer to learn about journalism
• Writing a paper on a technological topic
• Tutoring students
• Volunteering at a veterinarian’s office or animal shelter
• Organizing a fundraising event for a cause you’re passionate about
• Starting a social enterprise or business
• Writing a biography or autobiography
• Designing and building a machine or robot
• Creating a painting, piece of music, or other work of art
• Creating a blog or website about a passion of yours
• Leading a workshop
• Teaching a class
• Participating in an internship
• Conducting market research on a service or project
• Organizing a community cleanup
• Researching a historical event or person
• Organizing a debate
• Organizing a party for autistic children who find other parties too overwhelming
• Working with a paramedic and learning about lifesaving procedures
• Volunteering for a social service organization
• Organizing a STEM event, such as a science fair
• Volunteering at a local museum
• Writing op-eds for your local newspaper
• Starting a painting class for kids 
• Making a documentary about local history
• Putting on a play you wrote
• Building a go-kart
• Working with a real estate agent
• Doing a mock courtroom project
• Simulating the experience of the U.S. House or Senate
• Teaching a foreign language to residents in a senior home
• Developing a solution for a community-wide health problem
• Teaching English as a second language
• Building a little free library box in your neighborhood
• Working to change a school policy that needs changing
• Organizing volunteers to tutor students
• Helping a local business with their record-keeping or accounting
• Creating a community garden
• Working in a professor’s lab
• Working as a chef and improving your culinary skills
• Working with the cafeteria to reduce food waste and make other changes
• Devising a plan to build community bike trails
• Working to create a space as a dog park
• Volunteering to coach a kid’s athletic team
• Organizing a group to pick up groceries and medications for those who can’t
• Setting up a community ride service 
• Volunteering at a homeless shelter, soup kitchen, or non-profit organization
• Volunteering to take an older adult to church
• Gathering a group to make or collect toys for children at Christmas time

Any of the above ideas should be documented and then shaped into a presentation. While the first part of a senior project is doing the activity, the second part is sharing your experience with others via a presentation.

Your senior project should take considerable time and effort to complete, so above all else, you want to ensure that it relates to something you’re passionate about. This will make the entire experience more enjoyable and meaningful.

Remember to ask how are senior projects good for college application resumes and choose a project that will enhance your application.

Choose a feasible topic; it should be something you can complete with the skills, time, and resources available. The topic should be challenging but attainable. The goal is to push you out of the “same old same old,” but you don’t want something so complex that you can’t finish it.

Get started early in the year by brainstorming senior project ideas , researching, and planning. Ensure you understand what you’re required to do as part of your project, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you need it. 

It can be helpful to break your project into smaller sections and tasks throughout the year, and setting deadlines for yourself can help you stay on track and avoid having too much to do later in the year. 

Deciding on a senior project should be an exciting task! It’s a time to hone your skills, learn new ones, and explore your interests. By following the above tips and considering your interests and passions, you will surely find a rewarding senior project.

Here are a few ideas for your high school senior project.

• Research a Global Issue: Select a global issue that you are passionate about, such as climate change, poverty, or gender equality, and conduct in-depth research on the topic. Create a comprehensive report or multimedia presentation that highlights the causes, impacts, and potential solutions to the issue. Consider organizing a community event or awareness campaign to engage others in the cause.
• Entrepreneurship Project: Put your entrepreneurial spirit to the test by starting your own small business or social enterprise. Identify a product or service that fills a gap in the market or addresses a specific need in your community. Develop a business plan, create marketing materials, and track your progress throughout the project. This hands-on experience will allow you to develop valuable skills in entrepreneurship and problem-solving.
• Artistic Showcase: If you have a talent in the arts, consider creating an artistic showcase as your senior project. This can involve curating an art exhibition, organizing a concert, or directing a theater production. Use your creative skills to bring together a collection of works or performances that reflect your artistic vision and captivate your audience.
• Community Service Initiative: Devote your senior project to making a positive impact in your community. Identify a social issue or specific group in need and design a community service initiative to address it. This could involve organizing a fundraising event, leading a volunteer project, or starting a mentorship program. Document your progress and impact to demonstrate the meaningful contribution you have made.
• STEM Research Project: If you have an interest in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM), undertake a research project in a field of your choice. Formulate a hypothesis, design experiments, collect and analyze data, and draw conclusions. Present your findings through a research paper or an engaging presentation. This project will not only deepen your understanding of STEM concepts but also strengthen your research and analytical skills.
• Documentary or Film Production: Use your creativity and storytelling skills to produce a documentary or film on a topic of interest. Conduct interviews, capture compelling footage, and edit the material to create a thought-provoking and impactful production. This project allows you to explore your passion for visual storytelling and can be a powerful medium to raise awareness about important issues.
• Health and Wellness Campaign: Promote health and wellness in your school or community through a campaign focused on physical fitness, mental well-being, or nutrition. Develop a series of workshops, create informational materials, and organize events that encourage healthy lifestyle choices. Collaborate with local health organizations or experts to ensure the credibility and impact of your campaign.
• Cultural Exploration Project: Celebrate diversity and explore different cultures through a project that highlights the traditions, history, or art of a specific country or region. Create an interactive exhibition, organize cultural performances, or design a website that educates and immerses your audience in the richness of the culture you choose to explore.
• Personal Development Project: Focus on personal growth and self-reflection by undertaking a project that challenges you to step out of your comfort zone and acquire new skills. This could involve learning a new instrument, mastering a new sport, or acquiring proficiency in a foreign language. Document your progress, setbacks, and lessons learned to showcase your dedication and growth throughout the project.
• Demonstrates Mastery of Skills: A good senior project provides an opportunity to showcase the skills and knowledge you have acquired throughout your high school years. It allows you to demonstrate mastery in a particular subject or area of interest. Whether it’s conducting scientific research, organizing community events, or creating a piece of artwork, your project serves as evidence of your capabilities and expertise.
• College and Career Readiness: A well-executed senior project prepares you for the academic and professional challenges that lie ahead. It helps you develop critical skills such as research, problem-solving, project management, and communication. These skills are highly valued in college and the workforce, giving you a competitive edge and increasing your chances of success.
• Personal Growth and Self-Discovery: Engaging in a senior project offers an opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery. It allows you to explore your passions, interests, and strengths. By pursuing a project that aligns with your values and goals, you can gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your potential career paths. This self-awareness is invaluable when making decisions about your future.
• Builds Confidence and Independence: Successfully completing a senior project requires dedication, self-discipline, and the ability to work independently. It challenges you to take ownership of your work, make decisions, and overcome obstacles. As you navigate the project, you build confidence in your abilities and develop a sense of independence that will serve you well in college and beyond.
• Engages with the Community: A good senior project often involves engaging with the community and making a positive impact. It allows you to contribute to the betterment of society, whether through service projects, awareness campaigns, or creative initiatives. By connecting with others and addressing community needs, you develop empathy, leadership skills, and a sense of civic responsibility.
• Creates Networking Opportunities: Senior projects often require collaboration and interaction with professionals in your field of interest. This presents networking opportunities that can be valuable for future internships, job prospects, or college recommendations. Building connections with experts in your chosen field can open doors to exciting opportunities and mentorship.
• Adds Depth to College Applications: A well-executed senior project can make your college applications stand out. Admissions officers value students who have gone above and beyond their regular coursework to pursue a meaningful project. It demonstrates your commitment to learning, your initiative, and your ability to excel outside the classroom. A strong senior project can strengthen your college applications and increase your chances of acceptance.
• Leaves a Lasting Legacy: Your senior project has the potential to leave a lasting impact on your school and community. Whether it’s through implementing sustainable initiatives, creating educational resources, or organizing memorable events, your project can have a positive influence on those around you. Leaving a legacy that benefits future students and the community is a rewarding experience that you can be proud of.

A good senior project is important for several reasons. It showcases your skills, prepares you for college and career success, promotes personal growth and self-discovery, builds confidence and independence, engages with the community, creates networking opportunities, enhances college applications, and leaves a lasting legacy. Embrace the opportunity to undertake a meaningful senior project and make the most of this transformative experience.

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What is a Capstone Project in High School?

What’s covered:, what are capstone projects, how do capstone projects benefit high schoolers, should my child complete a capstone project, what are some examples of capstone projects.

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines a capstone as a “high point: crowning achievement” which, in many ways, defines a capstone project for high schoolers. Capstone projects require students to use all of the skills they’ve built over the course of their schooling to complete a substantial project that highlights their educational and intellectual experience.  

A high school capstone project is a way for students to demonstrate the culmination of skills and knowledge gained through their academic career by completing a long-term, multi-faceted project.

Typically performed at the end of a student’s high school career, students commonly choose a topic, profession, or social problem to explore and work with a mentor in that field of interest. The mentor guides the student through the project—sharing their knowledge of the field, teaching new skills, ensuring the student stays on task, and fostering a professional, real-world experience.

Over the course of the project, students conduct research, maintain a portfolio detailing the steps taken, and create a final paper, product, or presentation that demonstrates what they’ve learned. Often times, a final presentation is given to a panel of teachers, experts in the field, and community members.

One of the primary benefits of a capstone project to a high school student is that it highlights their educational accomplishments. Capstone projects provide students with the opportunity to exhibit their capacity for learning and allow them to show off the critical thinking skills they’ve built.

Colleges search for well-rounded students and the multi-faceted nature of a capstone project allows students to display a wide range of skills to prospective schools—writing, research, teamwork, planning, self-sufficiency and public speaking are just a sampling of the many skills used by a student to complete such a rigorous project. Capstone projects are a great way to indicate to potential colleges that a student is prepared for the demands of higher education.

Capstone projects also benefit high school students by creating self-confidence and building a sense of preparedness for college. A student who has successfully completed a thorough study of a subject and collaborated with an older, experienced mentor is likely to feel ready to take the next step academically. Capstone projects can also add a sense of purpose to a time where interest in education often wanes—consider it a cure for senioritis.  

Lastly, capstone projects let students immerse themselves in a field of interest. For some students, it solidifies their interest in a field and clarifies a degree path; others may learn through their capstone project that the field they chose isn’t as interesting as they thought. Either way, it helps create a sense of certainty before taking expensive college courses.

Though there are numerous benefits to undertaking a capstone project, the question remains: should your child complete one? The simple answer is yes. Completing a capstone project can be a feather in the cap of any prospective college student, so long as the project doesn’t interfere with any of the student’s other activities or interests that may be attractive to colleges and universities.

Colleges are always searching for students who maintain a high grade point average (GPA) while challenging themselves academically. The long-term, intense study of a subject will certainly make a student’s academic prowess evident to prospective schools, but this is only valuable if it doesn’t interfere with their studies and negatively affect their GPA. Students challenging themselves with a capstone project should be careful not to undertake the project at the expense of their other intellectual pursuits.

Colleges also seek out well-rounded students and you can make the argument that the focused study of one subject is out of line with what colleges and universities hope to see in a student. It’s true that capstone projects highlight the possession of a diverse skill set in a student, but colleges look for students with a wide range of interests in addition to skills. Students should not take up a capstone project if it means sacrificing extracurricular activities and other interests.

On a more personal level, students should ask themselves what they want to accomplish via a capstone project. The best projects are often the ones where the student is most passionate. If a student has a sincere interest in the deeper exploration of a field, it should be encouraged and their excitement and enthusiasm for the field can be felt in their work. If a student is solely tackling a capstone project to wow colleges, there is most likely a better way to impress schools more in line with the student’s interest.

Looking to get a better sense of what a capstone project is or looking for an idea to get started on your own capstone project? Here are some examples:

Business: Study digital marketing and create a digital marketing plan for a local business to help increase awareness and drive sales.

STEM: Learn about video game or app development and conceptualize, design, and build a working game or app.

Athletics: Research training and nutrition, build a training plan and diet, and perform in an athletic competition (a triathlon or marathon, for example).

Community Service: Learn about the work non-profits do, get first-hand experience volunteering with a local non-profit, and build a plan to create an organization that serves your community.

Film: Research what makes an effective public service announcement (PSA) and write, direct, and film a PSA that addresses a concern in your community.

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

60+ Inspiring Capstone Project Ideas for STEM Students: Unlocking Excellence

• Post author By admin
• October 3, 2023

Discover a range of innovative and challenging capstone project ideas for STEM students.

Hey there, STEM enthusiasts! We get it; you’re not just studying science, technology, engineering, or math – you’re living it.

And now, you’ve reached that thrilling moment in your academic journey: the capstone project. It’s like the grand finale of a spectacular fireworks show, where all your hard-earned knowledge bursts into a brilliant display of real-world application.

But hold on – choosing the right capstone project can feel a bit like picking your superpower for the future. Exciting, right? Well, that’s where we come in.

In this guide, we’re serving up a buffet of capstone project ideas specially crafted for STEM students like you. We’ve got everything from mind-bending tech wizardry to earth-saving eco-innovations.

Whether you’re into building robots that might just take over the world (kidding!) or exploring the mysteries of the human genome, we’ve got you covered.

So, let’s ditch the ordinary, embrace the extraordinary, and find that one project that’s going to make your STEM journey legendary. Ready to dive in? Let’s roll!

Table of Contents

What is Capstone Project Ideas for Stem Students?

Alright, listen up, STEM folks! Capstone projects? They’re like the big, epic finale of your journey through science, tech, engineering, and math. It’s where you get to flex those brain muscles and apply everything you’ve soaked up in the classroom to real-life challenges.

But here’s the kicker: picking the right project? It’s kind of a big deal. This ain’t just any old assignment; it’s your chance to shape your future career path.

So, in this article, we’re not just scratching the surface – we’re diving headfirst into a treasure trove of Capstone Project Ideas, tailor-made for STEM students.

Our mission? To help you find that spark, that “a-ha” moment, that will light up your academic journey. Ready to roll? Let’s do this!

Importance of Capstone Project Ideas for Stem Students

Alright, buckle up because we’re diving into why Capstone Projects are like the secret sauce of STEM education. These projects are a big deal, and here’s why:

Putting Knowledge to Work

You know all that stuff you’ve been learning in your STEM classes? Capstone projects are where you finally get to roll up your sleeves and put that knowledge to practical use. It’s like taking a test, but the real world is your exam paper.

Mixing It Up

STEM isn’t just one thing; it’s a melting pot of science, tech, engineering, and math. Capstone projects are like your chance to be the mad scientist mixing all these disciplines to cook up something amazing. It’s where you see how different fields can work together to solve complex problems.

Unleash Your Inner Genius

Remember those crazy ideas that kept you awake at night? Capstone projects give you the green light to bring those ideas to life. They’re all about innovation and letting your creativity run wild.

Hands-On Learning:

Forget about textbooks and lectures for a moment. Capstone projects are where you get your hands dirty (figuratively, most of the time). You learn by doing, and that’s an experience you can’t put a price on.

Becoming Sherlock Holmes

Investigating, researching, and analyzing data become your superpowers. Capstone projects turn you into a detective, seeking answers and solving mysteries.

Boss-Level Skills

Ever heard of project management and teamwork? Capstone projects are like your crash course in these essential skills. You learn how to work in a team, meet deadlines, and communicate like a pro.

Finding Real-World Problems

Capstone projects aren’t just for grades; they’re about addressing real-world problems. You become a problem-spotter, finding issues in your field that need fixing.

Supercharging Your Resume

Completing a Capstone Project is like having a golden ticket on your resume. Employers love seeing that you’ve tackled a real-world challenge and come out on top.

Changing the Game

Sometimes, your Capstone Project isn’t just a project; it’s a game-changer. You might stumble upon something so cool that it pushes the boundaries of what’s known in your field.

Opening Doors

Collaborating with experts and industry pros isn’t just a possibility; it’s often a reality in Capstone projects. These connections can open doors to your future career.

Making a Real Difference

And here’s the kicker – some Capstone Projects aren’t just about you; they’re about making the world a better place. Whether it’s in healthcare, sustainability, or technology, your project can have a positive impact on society.

Showcasing Your Awesomeness

Completed Capstone Projects are like trophies. They’re proof of what you’re capable of and a source of inspiration for future STEM students.

In a nutshell, Capstone Projects are like the stage where you step into the spotlight and showcase your STEM superpowers.

They prepare you for the real world, fuel innovation, and help move the needle in science and technology. So, get ready to rock your Capstone journey!

Capstone Project Ideas for Stem Students

Have a close look at capstone project ideas for stem students:-

Engineering and Technology

• Solar-Powered Gadgets: Design solar-powered phone chargers, backpacks, or outdoor lighting.
• Autonomous Robots: Create a robot for search and rescue operations or autonomous delivery.
• Smart Home Automation: Develop a home automation system that responds to voice commands.
• 3D Printing Advancements: Research and improve 3D printing materials and techniques.
• Electric Vehicle Prototypes: Design electric bikes, scooters, or small urban electric vehicles.
• Aerospace Innovations: Develop drones for agricultural monitoring or low Earth orbit satellites.
• Renewable Energy Innovations: Build a small-scale wind turbine or experiment with tidal energy.
• Biomedical Breakthroughs: Invent wearable medical devices for remote patient monitoring.
• Environmental Conservation Initiatives: Create an app to report and track environmental issues in your community.
• Robotics and Automation: Design a robotic system for assisting individuals with disabilities.

Biotechnology and Healthcare

• Genetic Engineering: Engineer bacteria for biodegradable plastics production.
• Telemedicine Solutions: Create a telemedicine platform for mental health support.
• Drug Discovery Algorithms: Develop algorithms to predict potential drug interactions.
• Biomedical Imaging Enhancements: Improve MRI or ultrasound imaging technology.
• Prosthetic Limb Innovations: Design advanced prosthetic limbs with sensory feedback.
• Stem Cell Therapies: Research the use of stem cells in regenerative medicine.
• Precision Medicine Tools: Develop tools for tailoring medical treatments to individual genetics.
• Medical Data Privacy Solutions: Create secure systems for handling sensitive medical data.
• Healthcare Access Apps: Design apps for improving healthcare access in underserved areas.
• Virtual Reality in Healthcare: Develop VR simulations for medical training and therapy.

Environmental Science and Sustainability

• Eco-Friendly Building Solutions: Construct green buildings with innovative energy-saving features.
• Waste Reduction Initiatives: Implement a smart waste management system in urban areas.
• Clean Water Technologies: Invent low-cost water purification systems for rural communities.
• Climate Change Mitigation Strategies: Develop strategies for reducing carbon emissions in industries.
• Urban Green Spaces: Create plans for urban parks and green spaces to combat urban heat islands.
• Renewable Energy Storage: Investigate novel methods for storing energy from renewable sources.
• Sustainable Agriculture Solutions: Design vertical farming systems for urban food production.
• Marine Conservation Innovations: Develop technologies to protect and restore marine ecosystems.
• Biodiversity Monitoring Tools: Create apps and devices for monitoring wildlife populations.
• Renewable Energy Education: Develop educational programs to raise awareness about renewable energy.

Computer Science and Data Science

• AI-Powered Language Translation: Build a language translation tool that uses AI to enhance accuracy.
• Machine Learning for Healthcare Diagnostics: Develop ML models for early disease detection.
• Cybersecurity Advancements: Create an AI-driven cybersecurity platform for threat detection.
• Data Analytics for Social Impact: Analyze data to identify social issues and propose solutions.
• Quantum Computing Algorithms: Design quantum algorithms for solving complex computational problems.
• Blockchain Applications: Develop blockchain-based systems for secure transactions or voting.
• Virtual Reality for Education: Build immersive VR educational experiences for students.
• IoT in Smart Cities: Create IoT solutions for improving urban infrastructure and services.
• Natural Language Processing Chatbots: Design chatbots that assist with customer service or information retrieval.
• Data Visualization for Climate Change: Develop visualizations to communicate climate data effectively.

Space Exploration and Astronomy:

• CubeSat Missions: Plan and execute CubeSat missions to study Earth’s atmosphere or space phenomena.
• Exoplanet Discovery Tools: Create algorithms and tools for identifying exoplanets.
• Astrobiology Research: Investigate extreme environments on Earth as analogs for extraterrestrial life.
• Space Tourism Initiatives: Design spacecraft or systems for commercial space travel.
• Asteroid Impact Mitigation: Develop strategies for deflecting potentially hazardous asteroids.
• Lunar Base Planning: Create blueprints for sustainable lunar bases or habitats.
• Satellite-Based Earth Monitoring: Build sensors and instruments for monitoring Earth from orbit.
• Space Debris Cleanup Technologies: Engineer systems for removing space debris.
• Mars Colony Concepts: Design habitats and infrastructure for future Mars colonies.
• Astronomy Outreach Apps: Develop apps for stargazing and astronomy education.

These project ideas offer a wide spectrum of exciting possibilities for STEM students to explore and contribute to their respective fields.

What are the capstone topics for stem?

STEM capstone topics are typically broad and interdisciplinary, and they allow students to apply the knowledge and skills they have learned throughout their STEM education to solve a real-world problem. Some examples of capstone topics for STEM students include:

• Developing a new way to generate renewable energy
• Designing a more sustainable transportation system
• Creating a new medical device or treatment
• Developing a new software application or algorithm
• Improving the efficiency of a manufacturing process
• Reducing the environmental impact of a product or service
• Developing a new educational program to teach STEM concepts
• Designing a more accessible and inclusive community
• Addressing a social or economic challenge through STEM innovation

What is the Capstone Project for stem students?

Alright, so picture this: the Capstone Project for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) students is like the thrilling climax of their academic adventure.

It’s where all that brainpower they’ve been accumulating throughout their STEM journey gets its moment to shine – by taking on actual, real-world problems.

Think of it as the ultimate challenge where they don’t just read about stuff in textbooks; they roll up their sleeves and get their hands dirty, so to speak. It’s the part where theory meets practice, and things get exciting.

Now, what’s on the menu for these projects? Well, it’s like a buffet of possibilities. STEM students can work solo or team up, and they might find themselves researching, tinkering, designing, or even inventing stuff. All with one goal in mind: making a tangible difference in their chosen STEM field.

But it’s not just about acing an assignment; it’s about preparing for their future careers. These projects teach them how to think critically, collaborate seamlessly, and confront real-world challenges head-on.

It’s not just education; it’s a taste of what awaits them in the dynamic world of STEM.

What is an example of a capstone topic?

Imagine having the power to foresee when a customer might bid farewell to a product or service. That’s customer churn, and it’s a puzzle that businesses need to solve.

Predicting customer churn is like having a crystal ball that helps identify customers at risk of leaving and take proactive steps to keep them on board.

So, what’s the scoop on this capstone project? It’s all about crafting a machine learning model that can predict customer churn based on past data. Businesses can use this model to pinpoint customers who might be on the verge of leaving and then craft personalized strategies to keep them happy.

But hold on, that’s just one flavor of the STEM capstone ice cream parlor. Here’s another tasty one in the realm of mechanical engineering:

Revolutionizing Prosthetic Limbs: Comfort and Functionality Redefined

Prosthetic limbs are like real-life superheroes for people who’ve lost their own limbs. But let’s be honest, there’s always room for improvement. This capstone project is a ticket to the world of designing and building a prosthetic limb that’s not just functional but also super comfortable.

Imagine this: cutting-edge materials, groundbreaking technologies, and innovative designs coming together to create a prosthetic limb that goes beyond expectations.

But hey, the STEM capstone universe is vast, and there are countless other galaxies to explore, such as:

• Powering the World with Renewable Energy: Dreaming up new ways to harness renewable energy sources and save the planet.
• Eco-Friendly Commutes: Crafting a sustainable transportation system for a greener tomorrow.
• Medical Marvels: Inventing groundbreaking medical devices or treatments to enhance healthcare.
• Software Wonders: Developing game-changing software or algorithms to simplify our lives.
• Manufacturing Efficiency: Streamlining production processes for greater productivity and sustainability.
• Environmental Guardians: Reducing the environmental impact of products or services for a cleaner Earth.
• STEM Education Revolution: Creating exciting educational programs to make STEM concepts accessible to all.
• Inclusive Communities: Designing communities that embrace diversity and accessibility.
• Tackling Global Challenges: Using STEM innovation to address complex social and economic issues.

When you’re choosing your capstone topic, remember it’s your chance to shine. Consider what tickles your curiosity, matches your skills, and aligns with your career dreams.

And don’t forget to have a chat with your advisor or mentor for some valuable insights and guidance. Happy capstone adventures!

How do I get ideas for a Capstone Project?

Check out how to get ideas for a capstone project:-

Explore Your Passions

Kickstart your idea quest by diving into your passions and interests. Think about what genuinely fires you up within your field of study. When you’re passionate about a project, it doesn’t feel like work; it feels like a thrilling adventure.

Real-World Challenges

Shift your focus to the real world. What are the burning problems or challenges that industries or communities are facing right now? Your Capstone Project could be the solution they’ve been waiting for.

Course Curiosity

Recall those “Aha!” moments in your classes. Were there topics or concepts that made you sit up and take notice? Delving deeper into one of these could be the start of a captivating project.

Seek Expert Guidance

Don’t be shy about tapping into the wisdom of your professors, advisors, or mentors. They’re like treasure chests of knowledge and can point you in the direction of intriguing project ideas.

Industry Insights

Take a virtual tour of your field’s online spaces. Look at industry blogs, forums , or websites to discover the latest trends, innovations, and hot topics. It’s like eavesdropping on the professionals’ secret conversations.

Team Brainstorming

If you’re up for it, consider teaming up with classmates. Sometimes, two (or more) heads are better than one. Brainstorm together to cook up a project idea that gets everyone excited.

Project Archives

Dive into the past. Check out previous Capstone Projects from your school or program. While you’re there, see if you can add a unique twist to a familiar topic.

Research Opportunities

Sneak a peek at what’s cooking in your department’s research labs or ongoing initiatives. Joining an existing project might be your ticket to becoming a project superstar.

Expert Interviews

Reach out to the experts. Conduct interviews or surveys with professionals in your field. Their insights might just be the inspiration you need.

Personal Stories

Reflect on your own life experiences. Has a personal challenge or journey sparked an idea? Sometimes, the best projects come from personal stories.

Social Good

Think about projects that can make the world a better place. Projects with a positive impact on society or the environment often feel incredibly rewarding.

Futuristic Tech

Explore the cutting-edge stuff. Keep an eye on emerging technologies or innovative approaches. Your project could be the next big thing.

Feasibility Check

While dreaming big is great, make sure your project idea is feasible within the confines of your program’s time, resources, and your own expertise.

Get Creative

Embrace creativity. Dedicate some time to brainstorming sessions. Let your imagination run wild, jotting down all those wild ideas. Later, you can sift through them to find the golden nuggets.

Remember, your Capstone Project should feel like an adventure, not a chore. Take your time, let the ideas simmer, and choose the one that makes your heart race with excitement.

That’s the idea that’s going to propel you to Capstone success. Happy brainstorming!

In wrapping up our exploration of Capstone Project ideas for STEM students, let’s remember that this journey is nothing short of thrilling. It’s a world brimming with opportunities waiting for your genius touch.

As you venture into this territory, keep your passions close at heart. Seek out those real-world challenges that ignite your curiosity and resonate with your values.

Don’t hesitate to lean on the wisdom of your mentors and peers for guidance; they’ve been there and have invaluable insights to share.

Whether you find yourself immersed in renewable energy, pioneering medical breakthroughs, or tackling societal issues head-on with STEM innovation, your Capstone Project is your chance to shine.

It’s your canvas to paint your ideas, your passion, and your creativity. It’s the first chapter in your journey to shaping a brighter future through STEM.

So, embrace the adventure, let your imagination soar, and embark on your Capstone Project journey with confidence. The world is waiting for your innovative solutions, and the possibilities are endless.

Your STEM story is just beginning.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i choose the right capstone project for me.

Consider your interests, skills, and career goals. Choose a project that excites you and aligns with your future aspirations.

Are there any funding opportunities for Capstone Projects?

Many universities and organizations offer grants and scholarships for STEM projects. Research and apply for funding opportunities early.

Can I collaborate with other students on a Capstone Project?

Collaboration can enhance your project’s scope and creativity. Consult with your advisor and explore team projects.

What should I do if I encounter challenges during my Capstone Project?

Don’t hesitate to seek guidance from professors, mentors, or online communities. Challenges are opportunities for growth.

How can I make my Capstone Project stand out to potential employers?

Focus on innovation, documentation, and presentation. Showcase your problem-solving skills and the real-world impact of your project.

What’s the importance of networking during my Capstone Project journey?

Networking can open doors to opportunities, mentorship, and industry connections. Attend conferences and engage with professionals in your field.

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Recent Posts

The value of senior capstone projects

by: Hank Pellissier | Updated: May 5, 2024

Print article

Richard W. Riley, a former U.S. Secretary of Education, once called senior year of high school a “wasteland.” So bored, tired, and burned out are these soon-to-be-graduates that their apathy is often reframed as a disease: Senioritis. A dreaded affliction, Senioritis is the culprit for everything from skipping class to forgetting homework — and evokes protestations like, “Why? It’s pointless!”

Though parents and teachers may be inclined to blame teens, experts point to the way we’ve designed high schools. Just as 17- and 18-year-olds can see their whole lives changing — whether they’re headed to college or embarking on a career path — little about their daily life has changed. Their high school schedule isn’t focused on their fast-approaching futures. They know where they’re headed next year. Their grades no longer matter so much. Traditional high school is built around these external measures, and now that they no longer carry as much weight, the whole endeavor does, indeed, seem rather pointless.

What can be done about this plague called Senioritis?

Some high schools have set about making learning relevant by clearing time from seniors’ regular academic schedule so they can work on a capstone project. Senior capstones are ambitious, long-term, in-depth projects during senior year of high school that culminate in written and oral presentations. Not only do they prepare students for college-level work, they help keep the focus on learning in a year plagued by distractions and flagging motivation. And because they are based on the student’s choice, they also allow students to explore a topic or field they might want to pursue as a college major or career.

Depending on the student’s passions, this could range from an aspiring artist researching a local community’s history and painting a public mural, a fashionista designing a new line of clothing and writing an analysis of its inspiration, a future scientist studying soil samples in the nearby elementary school garden and presenting to the local school board on the soil’s safety issues. Many capstone projects combine what is traditionally thought of as “academic” work (writing, research, science) with something more hands-on or creative, such as art, invention, public presentations, marketing, activism, or public service.

Students research their topic over time, take notes, synthesize and analyze what they learn, and then demonstrate their conclusions in a paper, short film, or other product. They also give an oral presentation to a panel of evaluating teachers, peers, and/or experts. Senior capstones are often interdisciplinary, connected to the local community, and include interviews, scientific observations, and sometimes fieldwork, volunteering, or even internships.

Why are senior capstone projects important?

An August 2013 research report examining multiple high schools found that senior capstones both helped students stay engaged with school and were linked to positive outcomes. Teens completing capstones in North Carolina “received job offers, internships, and scholarships”; students in Louisiana reported that the capstone experience “influenced their future goals or plans;” and seniors in Massachusetts reported that their capstone projects helped them in college interviews and built their confidence and self-motivation.

When implemented well, senior capstone projects can…

• Boost self-confidence by giving students a chance to excel in an area of in-depth learning.
• Prepare kids for college-level work, which often requires more rigorous standards and deeper knowledge that typical high school coursework.
• Keep students engaged in the last year of high school by allowing them to pursue something they’re passionate about.
• Give students an opportunity to build and display crucial skills, including critical thinking, research, public speaking, media literacy, strategic thinking, self-sufficiency, and goal-setting.
• Help students explore their interests, sometimes helping students decide which college major and/or career path to pursue (or not).
• Help students find a sense of purpose in terms of how they want to contribute to the world.

How senior capstone projects work

Senior capstone projects can take on different forms and schedules at different schools but typically the student 1) chooses a topic, social problem, or profession that intrigues them, 2) spends several months deeply investigating the subject via research, interviews, and internships, and finally, 3) delivers the product in a paper, presentation, or performance that fully demonstrates the academic skills and knowledge they’ve acquired.

Some schools, like Denver School of Science and Technology: Montview High School , reduce students’ academic schedules during the spring semester to give them more time for their projects.

Capstones are frequently undertaken at the end of high school as a culminating experience, but they’re also tackled earlier, so students can showcase the accomplishment on their college applications. For example, the Jefferson County Open School (JCOS) in Lakewood, CO has one of the oldest capstone programs in the U.S. The school’s “Passages” program requires every student to do six capstone projects to graduate. Each of the six “passages” has a different focus — career exploration, adventure, creative expression, global awareness, logical inquiry, and practical skills — and each involves kids “doing something, an action element,” explains Principal Scott Bain. “They’re not just an academic task.”

“Capstones are a window into a kid’s skill set. They’re also windows into understanding who you are and what you value — personally, socially, intellectually — and what you want to do with your life,” Bain says.

When capstones don’t work

Critics suggest that senior capstone projects are far from a miracle cure, especially in schools where a majority of the students do not have strong academic skills. Deep rigorous learning requires more academic skills, not fewer. Although elite, private schools have successfully used capstones for centuries, EdTrust writer Carlton Jordan points out that the students are accustomed to extensive, in-depth writing. Jordan argues that capstones in predominantly Black and Latino urban schools often fall far short because the students are not sufficiently prepared for the task.

Senior capstone programs can also reinforce existing inequities. In a more haphazard program, students may be expected to use their parents’ connections to reach out to mentors or community members, instead of school staff making sure every student has a feasible plan for carrying out their project.

Key factors to consider:

• Time constraints: Students from low-income families who need to work, take care of family members, or do extensive household chores, may not be able to dedicate as much time to a capstone project as their more affluent classmates.
• Access issues: Students who want to explore their interest in an elite career via a capstone may have an advantage if they have family or friends of family in that occupation — and be at a disadvantage if they do not.
• Implementation issues: Senior capstones are sometimes used as graduation requirement alternatives for students who are expected to fail graduation exams. This enables schools to offer diplomas to students without basic literacy and math skills.
• Additional implementation issues: Conversely, senior capstones are sometimes designed for a few high-performing students, leaving out most of the senior class.

Key takeaways

• Ask if the school has senior capstone projects. If they do, ask to see the guidelines and some successful sample projects.
• No capstone projects at your child’s high school? Ask the principal and 12th grade teachers if researching and producing an in-depth project is an academic option for all students.

For educators:

• If your school doesn’t have capstones, build mini capstones into your class by helping students create multi-faceted, multi-month projects of their own choosing. Help your students create timelines with reasonable interim goals, so they’re not overwhelmed with last-minute tasks.
• Connect students, especially those from underserved communities, to experts, local groups, and resource materials to help them in their research.
• Push students gently out of their comfort zone, to think and work harder than they’ve done in the past.

For administrators:

• If your high schools do not yet have capstone programs, read this research report on different ways schools have implemented them.
• Start a pilot project with one innovative teacher or school site. Attend capstone presentations and urge other administrators, faculty members, and community members to attend and present feedback.

This article is part of our Transforming High School series , a collection of stories, videos, and podcasts exploring the practices that prepare students for success in college and beyond.

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40 Best Capstone Project Ideas for STEM Students: Shaping the Future

Unlock innovation with our diverse collection of Capstone Project Ideas for STEM Students! From coding challenges to hands-on engineering marvels, discover projects that blend your academic prowess with real-world problem-solving.

To turn all those STEM brainwaves into something seriously cool! Forget the boring stuff; we’re talking about projects that’ll make you go, “I did that!”

Imagine it like a DIY adventure, but for STEM enthusiasts. Whether you’re the coding maestro, the engineering whiz, or the science guru, these capstone projects are your VIP ticket to hands-on, mind-bending fun.

No more snooze-fest assignments; this is your moment to shine. It’s like putting a bit of your STEM genius into the real world. Ready to rock the STEM stage? Grab your curiosity and let’s turn those ideas into something mind-blowing!

Table of Contents

The Importance of Capstone Projects

Check out the improtance of capstone projects:-

Grand Finale Alert!

Ready for the ultimate showstopper? Your capstone project is like the grand finale of a fireworks display, wrapping up all your learning with a bang! It’s YOUR time to shine.

Real-Life Problem Busting!

Forget hypotheticals; it’s time to get real. Capstone projects throw you into the ring of real-world problems. It’s like being a superhero, but instead of a cape, you’ve got your brain and skills ready for action!

Mixing Skills Smoothie

Get ready to be the master chef of your skills kitchen! Your capstone project is where you throw in coding, sprinkle some research magic, and maybe even add a dash of teamwork. It’s like creating the most epic smoothie of your academic journey!

Professional World Bootcamp!

Say hello to your personal bootcamp for the professional world. Capstone projects prep you for the challenges ahead – project management, thinking on your feet, and teamwork. It’s like a crash course in being a pro!

Your Superhero Moment!

Capstone completed? Cue the superhero music! This is your moment to show the world (and future employers) that you’re not just a student; you’re a superhero who conquers challenges!

Become the Academic Adventurer!

Time to channel your inner Indiana Jones of academia! Capstone projects let you embark on a research adventure, discovering new things and leaving your mark. It’s like being the hero of your academic story!

Learning Through Action!

Capstone projects are not about snooze-worthy lectures. They’re about action! It’s like learning to ride a bike by actually riding – hands-on, immersive, and way more exciting.

Backstage Pass to Industry VIPs!

Your capstone journey might include mingling with the pros. Imagine it as a backstage pass to the industry concert. Who knows, you might end up having coffee with your professional idols!

Passion Explorer Mode On!

Capstone projects are like GPS for your passion. They help you discover what makes your heart race in your chosen field. It’s like unlocking the secret door to your dream career.

Cheers to You and Your School!

Finishing your capstone project isn’t just a solo victory; it’s a party for your school too! You both did it! It’s time to throw your cap (literally or metaphorically) and celebrate your epic achievement!

Capstone Project Ideas For STEM Students

Check out some of the best capstone project ideas for STEM students:-

Coding and Software Development:

• Craft a system where your home dances to your tune! Control lights, temperature, and security with a magic app or a simple voice command.
• Dive into a world where studying is an adventure! Create a VR experience that makes complex subjects as exciting as your favorite video game.
• Imagine an app that’s your health sidekick! Track fitness, get personalized workouts, and let AI sprinkle some health wisdom your way.
• Make voting a party with blockchain! Build a system that keeps elections transparent, secure, and as easy as tapping a button.
• Navigate campus like a superhero! Develop an AR app that turns every building into a story and every corner into an adventure.
• Bring shopping to life! Create an online store where a friendly chatbot guides users through the wonderland of products.
• Forget paper and pens! Create a system using face recognition or RFID to take attendance without breaking a sweat.
• Turn language learning into a game! Build an app that listens to your words and cheers you on to pronunciation victory.
• Unveil the secrets of social media! Develop a tool that spills the tea on trends, engagement, and the overall vibe.
• Let’s code together! Create a platform where coding becomes a group adventure, with devs jamming in real-time.

Robotics and Automation:

• Gift your drone wings and a mission! Create a drone that patrols autonomously, keeping an eye on things and reporting back.
• Make plants feel like VIPs! Develop a system that pampers them with the right temperature, humidity, and water levels.
• Rehab goes robotic! Design a helpful robot that guides and supports people through their recovery journey.
• Time for the recycling magic! Create a robot that sorts waste with a flick of its robotic wand, making Mother Earth smile.
• Send packages on a solo mission! Develop a robot that delivers parcels with ninja-like navigation skills.
• Turn factories into enchanted realms! Use PLC to weave spells that control and monitor manufacturing spells.
• Give a robot a brain of its own! Build a robotic buddy that learns from humans and becomes the ultimate sidekick.
• Create a simulator where self-driving cars practice their moves, dealing with traffic jams, tricky turns, and unexpected surprises.
• Introduce a cleaning sensation! Develop a robot that effortlessly glides through homes, making cleaning a breeze.
• Choreograph a drone ballet! Explore the magic of drone swarming, where they move as one in a mesmerizing dance.

Biotechnology and Health Sciences:

• Bring healthcare to your screen! Create a telemedicine platform where doctors make house calls through video consultations.
• Turn into a water quality detective! Craft a biosensor system that sniffs out contaminants and ensures water safety.
• Create a superhero leg! Design a prosthetic limb that listens to your thoughts, making movement feel like second nature.
• Peek into your genetic crystal ball! Develop an app that predicts your genetic future, helping you plan ahead.
• Mini superheroes inside your body! Build a drug delivery system using nanotech, ensuring meds reach the right spot.
• Make tissues like a 3D printing wizard! Dive into bioprinting, creating artificial tissues for medical wonders.
• Pop on a smart lens! Design a lens that not only corrects your vision but also keeps tabs on your glucose levels.
• Make health a breeze! Craft an app that’s your health haven, covering fitness, nutrition, and a bit of mental zen.
• Your personal medicine whisperer! Create a platform that suggests treatments based on your unique genetic melody.
• Control devices with your thoughts! Develop an interface that turns brain signals into electronic magic.

Environmental Science and Sustainability:

• Spin the renewable tunes! Design a system that jams to the rhythm of renewable energy, optimizing its beats.
• Green spaces become the stars! Create a tool that orchestrates the perfect symphony of urban greenery for sustainability.
• Send drones on a pollution patrol! Build flying scouts that report on air quality, helping us all breathe easy.
• Transform farms into tech marvels! Develop an IoT system that turns farming into a precision dance, boosting crop yields.
• Turn trash into treasure! Explore ways to convert waste into energy, making every piece of rubbish a potential power source.
• Send a cleanup crew to the ocean fiesta! Create a robot that collects plastic and keeps our oceans sparkling.
• Let the sun make fresh water! Develop a system that uses solar magic for water desalination, making the sea drinkable.
• Make electricity dance to a smart beat! Implement a grid that grooves to the rhythm of energy efficiency.
• Create packaging that hugs the planet! Design materials that decompose like fairy dust, leaving no trace.
• Turn recycling into a celebration! Develop an app that connects communities, turning trash into treasures.

Executing Your Capstone Project

Time to rock your Capstone Project! Here’s your down-to-earth guide to making it happen:

• Imagine your project as a journey. Map out the steps you need to take, like planning a road trip with cool stops along the way.
• Get your tools ready. Whether it’s a laptop, lab equipment, or a trusty notebook, gather your gear like a hero gearing up for a quest.
• If you’ve got a team, keep the chat alive. It’s like a group text for your STEM gang. Regular check-ins keep everyone in sync and ready to conquer.
• Brace yourself for twists and turns. Every challenge is a chance to learn. Think of it as leveling up in a video game—each obstacle makes you stronger.
• Celebrate the small wins. Successfully debugged your code? Dance it out. Nailed that experiment? Fist bump the air. Little victories add up to one big win.
• Stay flexible. Plans might change, and that’s okay. Think of it like a dance—you improvise and keep grooving even when the beat changes.
• Share your progress. Get feedback from your mentors or classmates. It’s like getting advice on your killer playlist—external input makes it even better.
• As you near the finish line, fine-tune your work. It’s like putting the finishing touches on your favorite jam—make it smooth and perfect.
• Keep your space tidy. A clutter-free workspace is like a calm sea—smooth sailing for your project ship.
• When it’s showtime, strut your stuff. Share your journey, the highs, the lows—it’s your moment to shine like a rockstar.

Executing your Capstone Project is a gig to remember. Ride the waves, dance to the beats, and enjoy every moment. Your STEM adventure is about to become legendary!

How do I find a Capstone Project idea for STEM?

Ready to dive into the exciting world of a STEM Capstone Project? Here’s a laid-back guide to help you snag that perfect idea:

• What gets you buzzing with excitement? Dive into your passions, whether it’s coding, experimenting, or building things. Your project should feel like a joyride, not a chore.
• Take a stroll around your world—school, community, or even your daily routine. Any pesky problems you’d love to tackle using STEM? Your project could be the superhero solution!
• Check out the cool stuff happening in the tech world. Anything catch your eye? It could be the next big thing or the missing link for your project.
• Gather your buddies, mentors, or anyone willing to brainstorm. No idea is too wild! Throw them all on the table and see which ones spark that “aha” moment.
• What skills do you want to level up? Your project is a chance to boost your superhero skill set. Pick an idea that feels like a fun skill-building adventure.
• Peek into different STEM industries. What’s cooking? Any space for your project to shine? It could be the game-changer they didn’t know they needed.
• Check out the stories of STEM heroes and sheroes. Anything inspiring? Maybe a twist or improvement on their ideas could be your ticket to project stardom.
• Join STEM hangouts, forums, or clubs. Chat with other STEM enthusiasts. You might stumble upon ongoing projects or find pals to join your project party.
• Take stock of your resources and time. What can you realistically pull off? Your project should be a fun challenge, not a stress marathon .
• Share your top ideas with your favorite teachers, mentors, or even your pet cat. Seriously, anyone who’ll listen! Their feedback can turn a good idea into a stellar one.

Remember, this project is your chance to shine in the world of STEM. So, pick an idea that feels like your own personal superhero journey—adventurous, a bit challenging, and totally awesome!

What makes a good Capstone Project?

Cooking up the perfect STEM Capstone Project? Let’s keep it as simple and engaging as your favorite recipe:

• Think about what gets you pumped in the world of STEM. Your project should feel like picking your favorite game to play—it’s gotta be exciting!
• Your project should be like fixing a real-world hiccup. Maybe it’s something bothering your school or community. Time to use STEM to be the fixer!
• Be the cool inventor! What can you add or change to make your project stand out? Get those creative juices flowing.
• Check your backpack for resources. Your project should be like planning a fun trip—it’s gotta be exciting but fit in your backpack (resources and time).
• Want to share the magic? Think about teaming up with friends, mentors, or even your science-loving cousin. Teamwork can turn your project into a group adventure.
• Treat your project like leveling up in your favorite game. It’s not just about the destination; it’s about learning new skills and having fun along the way.
• What’s hot in the STEM world right now? Your project should be like picking the coolest outfit for the season—stylish and up-to-date.
• Your project should be a bit like learning a new dance. It’s not just about the end result; it’s about the moves you learn along the way.
• Your project should be like leaving your mark on the world. How will it help others or add some extra sparkle to the STEM scene?
• Finally, imagine your project is a story you can’t wait to tell your buddies. Prepare a cool show-and-tell—clear, fun, and with a touch of magic!

So, there you have it! Your STEM Capstone Project should feel like the coolest adventure in your favorite game, mixed with a bit of teamwork, creativity, and a whole lot of fun. Ready, set, STEM-magic time!

And that’s a wrap, STEM trailblazers! As we bid adieu to our Capstone Project Ideas for STEM Students journey, just know this is not a goodbye but a “see you later” in the world of science, tech, engineering, and math.

Your chosen project isn’t just a wrap-up of classes; it’s your chance to show the world what you’re made of—pure STEM magic. Whether you’re coding up a storm, concocting experiments, or engineering solutions, your Capstone Project is your time to shine.

So, as you tackle the challenges and revel in those “Aha!” moments, remember it’s all part of the ride. Big wins, tiny victories—they all count. Your STEM journey is more like a cool series finale, leaving everyone in awe.

This isn’t a farewell—it’s your springboard into what’s next. Your project isn’t just a project; it’s your story in the ever-evolving book of STEM. Your curious mind, your ability to adapt, and the skills you’ve polished during this journey are your forever companions.

So, go on, STEM pals! Let your Capstone Project be that masterpiece that makes everyone say, “Wow, that’s amazing!” Your brilliance is bound to light up the STEM galaxy.

Rock it, STEM champs! Your Capstone Project isn’t just an ending; it’s a launch into the stratosphere of STEM greatness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a capstone project in stem.

A capstone project in STEM is a culminating academic endeavor that allows students to apply their knowledge and skills to solve real-world problems in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics.

Can I collaborate with industry professionals on my capstone project?

Yes, collaborating with industry professionals is a great way to gain real-world experience and insights for your capstone project.

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6 Tips for Engaging Capstone Projects

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

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

Ensure "Main Course, Not Dessert"

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

Take It To Another Level

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

More Voice and Choice

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

Make a Difference

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

Tell the Full Story Through Assessment

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

Experiment With "No Grades"

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

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

Can ‘Capstone Projects’ Deepen Learning for High School Seniors?

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Oakland, Calif.

Fremont High School teacher Maya Brodkey is laying out the next building block in her students’ high school graduation project—a yearlong assessment oriented around a research question students have developed on a social issue like homelessness, war, or vaping. They’ve already conducted hours of online research and written essay drafts outlining their problems; the next step is to deepen their understanding and gain additional perspectives through field research, including an interview.

Students can choose to use focus groups, which Brodkey points out can elicit great information about why people hold the beliefs they do, but can be hard to schedule. They can conduct a one-on-one interview with an expert, with the knowledge that any single anecdote or position is necessarily limited. Or they can draft a survey to get superficial feedback from a wide range of people, which sounds like a lot of fun to these seniors—until Brodkey explains that it also means collecting and analyzing the resulting data, and all those data are limited by how the students frame their questions.

She references student Joanna Gonzalez’s topic, which is on immigration policy and racism, clearly a front-burner issue in this diverse school system of 50,000.

“You can’t just do a survey for immigrants. What does that mean? Are you asking people if they immigrated in a particular category? Are they a particular age? Did they immigrate and now have citizenship? Are they the children of immigrants?” she points out.

The students gather in groups to start thinking about what kind of field research they will choose. Only a handful have ever conducted a formal interview before, and most are a little nervous.

It’s no wonder: For most students, researching and writing about their topics represents the most sustained piece of writing they’ve had to do in high school, and field research isn’t even the last step. To graduate, they’ll have to craft a presentation about their topic for their entire school and respond to questions posed by a panel of teachers, almost as if they’re defending a thesis.

In High Demand

Oakland’s Graduate Capstone Project, as it’s called, provides a comprehensive look at how policymakers might think of structuring a yearlong performance test. Around 16 states have policies encouraging similar projects for high school graduation, but most of them don’t require it, and implementation of the projects tends to be uneven.

There’s nothing unique about the Oakland assessment’s individual pieces. What’s unusual is how they’re knit together comprehensively, with an eye toward making sure students’ mastery of research, writing, and oral skills matches the needs of what comes next for them .

“We really tried to learn from the mistakes of the past and think of this as not just a compliance policy,” said Young Whan Choi, the district’s manager of performance assessments. “It gives us an opportunity to improve the quality of the learning experience for students and develop some shared understanding of what we mean by a high-quality research paper, and a high-quality presentation, and what it means to be an Oakland graduate.”

All those skills are in high demand not only by colleges but also by employers, who say that few young people have the requisite oral-presentation or writing skills they expect of new hires.

“I have had students who have come back years later and said, ‘Having all these deadlines for different parts of the project helped me meet them for college,’ ” said James Barbuto, who teaches in nearby Skyline High School and oversees the capstone projects there. “I’ve never had a student who’s not been successful in some way, or gotten something out of it.”

Oakland teachers like Brodkey have encouraged students to select topics they’ve personally been touched by or feel passionate about. Partly, that’s because students need something complex enough to sustain a whole year. More importantly, it’s simply more authentic to a post-high-school world than topics like dress codes or cafeteria food.

“It sets them up to have a strong argument,” she said. “And with regard to civic education and engagement, when you pick a real issue, it’s easier to have a sense of agency.”

Joanna’s classmate Vtee is examining problems faced by the Cambodian community here, many of whom are still suffering the aftereffects of the 1979 Khmer Rouge genocide. Another student, who fled from violence in Yemen a few years ago, has chosen to research the effect of the civil war there on youths.

Tuuta Fili is among those students who’ve picked homelessness. “I had a best friend in elementary school who lived in his car for half a year and a motel for a year. And he still made it to school and stuff,” Fili said.

Laptop computer in hand, he mulls over the fieldwork assignment, thinking about whom to interview. An idea occurs to him: Near one of the downtown Oakland subway stops, there’s a new housing development for people experiencing homelessness. Maybe one of the developers would agree to be interviewed about the challenges and costs of creating affordable housing for his project, he thinks.

A Renaissance

Oakland’s efforts constitute a renaissance of sorts for the program. District policy has required seniors to engage in a “serious research project or exhibition” since 2005. But until recently there was little consistency in student projects, according to Choi. Teachers treated oversight of the graduation project like a hot potato, a duty they passed off to one another in an “it’s your turn” rite of passage.

In effect, Choi said, the requirement contributed to stratification in the district: Some students got an opportunity to write in-depth research papers, but others didn’t—sometimes within the same high school.

In 2012, the district latched onto the requirement as a lever to focus the senior year and improve student civic engagement. During the first few years Oakland first worked with students in career and technical education, but over the last few years grant support has expanded the capstone projects to the general curriculum.

These evolutions have been implemented from the bottom up, rather than as a mandate. The Oakland district still gives high schools flexibility to decide whether to make the capstone a separate course or to work it into an existing one. And the district didn’t initially use common scoring guidelines to judge students’ writing, field research, or oral-presentation skills.

But as groups of teachers started adopting them on their own, they saw how it gave them a shared language for discussing student work, and improved equity by making sure each project was being judged by the same set of standards. Now, the district disseminates three sets of guidelines to all—one for the written paper, one on conducting field research, and one on the presentation—and offers teachers training on them.

For now, actual scoring procedures differ from school to school. At Fremont High, drafts of student papers are shared among faculty, and final versions are blind-scored by at least two educators. Students know that their work will have to satisfy even their most finicky teachers.

Not all schools have adopted the full Graduate Capstone Project—some still do a less-formal project or use a simpler scoring system. But the culture around the capstones is growing. For the class of 2018, two-thirds of graduating seniors participated in the full project.

Shaping Instruction

For teachers like Brodkey and Barbuto, the capstone truly comes down to instruction, not testing. It’s required them to rethink their own teaching approaches.

Both teachers say one of the most challenging lessons they teach has to do with sourcing , especially in identifying skewed news articles and making sure students weigh multiple, conflicting perspectives on their topics.

Barbuto has students read each source they turn up at least three times: once to weigh its credibility, including by looking at the publisher’s credentials and purpose; next, reading for background and context; and finally, synthesizing and seeing how it complements or alters their overall conclusions about their topic.

There’s also the big task of simply keeping tabs on students’ progress and providing the right supports, like helping them identify and link up to experts for their interviews.

Students feel the pressure, too. Senior Janeli Romero-Garcia describes the project as difficult, but doable.

“We’re not doing it all in a rush,” she said. “There are pieces here and pieces there, and they’re all coming together.”

Teachers are also thinking about how they want to see the capstone project evolve next.

Barbuto would like to see colleagues in earlier grades beginning to familiarize themselves with the scoring frameworks, so that it’s easier to help students build the foundational skills over time.

“When we first started doing this years ago, the immediate feedback from the students was that it was too much to expect them to master these skills in senior year. They needed to be practicing it every year,” he said.

Brodkey wants to double down on the social justice, community focus of her capstone teaching, inching the projects closer to action civics, in which students not only identify and research a problem but also try to use civic channels to help solve it.

“We continue to ask questions about: Should we keep capstone as a separate class? Should we fold it into English?” she said. “But there is not a question about whether we should do the project.”

A version of this article appeared in the February 06, 2019 edition of Education Week as Can ‘Capstone Projects’ Deepen Learning for High School Seniors?

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55+ Creative Capstone Project Topics For Students In 2023

As a student, one of the most important tasks you’ll face is choosing a capstone project topic. A capstone project is a comprehensive assignment that requires you to demonstrate the knowledge and skills you’ve gained throughout your academic program.

It is a crucial aspect of your academic career as it can help you stand out in the job market, demonstrate your readiness for your profession, and showcase your ability to work independently. In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know about capstone projects and provide you with 55+ capstone project topics to help get you started.

What is a Capstone Project?

Table of Contents

A capstone project is a culmination of your academic program. It requires you to integrate and apply the knowledge and skills you’ve gained throughout your academic journey. Capstone projects come in different forms and formats, including research papers, presentations, case studies, and hands-on projects.

Explain Significance of a Capstone Project

A Capstone project is a culminating academic project that is typically required of students nearing the end of their studies. The significance of a Capstone project lies in the fact that it provides an opportunity for students to integrate and apply the knowledge and skills they have acquired throughout their studies to solve a real-world problem or address a specific issue.

Here are some reasons why Capstone projects are significant:

1. Integration of Knowledge

Capstone projects require students to integrate and apply knowledge gained across multiple courses in their program. This integration of knowledge allows students to see the connections between different subject areas and to apply a holistic approach to problem-solving.

2. Real-world Experience

Capstone projects often involve working on a project for a real client or addressing a real-world issue. This provides students with valuable experience in working with real clients and stakeholders, conducting research, and applying theoretical concepts to practical problems.

3. Demonstration of Skills

Capstone projects provide an opportunity for students to demonstrate the skills they have acquired over the course of their studies. This includes critical thinking, problem-solving, research, and communication skills.

Career Preparation

Capstone projects can help students prepare for their future careers by providing them with practical experience, networking opportunities, and a portfolio of work to showcase to potential employers.

In summary, Capstone projects are significant because they provide students with an opportunity to integrate and apply their knowledge, gain real-world experience, demonstrate their skills, and prepare for their future careers.

Elements of Capstone Project

Capstone projects can vary depending on the academic discipline, institution, and level of study. However, there are several common elements that are typically included in a Capstone project:

The Capstone project begins with the selection of a topic, which is often related to the student’s area of study or research interest. The topic should be significant, relevant, and feasible to research and complete within the given timeframe.

2. Proposal

The student is required to submit a proposal that outlines the problem or issue they aim to address, the research questions, methodology, and expected outcomes. The proposal is typically reviewed and approved by a faculty advisor or a Capstone committee.

3. Literature Review

Students are required to conduct a comprehensive literature review of existing research related to the chosen topic. This helps to provide a theoretical foundation for the project and identify gaps in existing research that the Capstone project aims to address.

4. Research Methodology

Students need to identify and apply appropriate research methods and techniques to collect data and analyze it. This could involve conducting surveys, interviews, experiments, or analyzing existing data sources.

5. Results And Analysis

Students need to present the results of their research in a clear and organized manner, including data analysis, graphs, and charts, which are used to support their findings.

6. Conclusion And Recommendations

Students need to provide a conclusion that summarizes the findings and recommendations for future research and practice. This is typically presented in a written report or a presentation to a Capstone committee.

7. Reflection

Finally, students are often required to reflect on the Capstone project experience, including the challenges and successes encountered during the project. This reflection allows students to critically evaluate their work and identify areas for improvement.

Here in this section we mentioned more than 55+ capstone project topics for students:

1. An Analysis Of The Impact Of Social Media On Mental Health

This Capstone project could explore how social media use affects mental health, such as depression and anxiety, and investigate possible solutions or interventions to minimize negative outcomes.

2. Investigating The Impact Of Climate Change On The Tourism Industry

This Capstone project could analyze the effects of climate change on the tourism industry, such as the impact on tourist destinations, transportation, and local economies, and propose potential solutions to mitigate the negative impacts.

3. Developing A Business Plan For A Start-Up Company In The Healthcare Industry

This Capstone project could involve developing a comprehensive business plan for a healthcare start-up, including market research, financial projections, and strategic planning.

4. An Analysis Of The Effectiveness Of Online Learning In Higher Education

This Capstone project could investigate the effectiveness of online learning in higher education, such as student engagement, retention, and learning outcomes, and propose strategies to improve online learning experiences.

5. Designing A Sustainable Housing Project For Low-Income Families

This Capstone project could involve designing a sustainable housing project that meets the needs of low-income families while promoting environmental sustainability, such as incorporating renewable energy sources, green roofs, and water conservation features.

6. Developing A Mental Health Intervention Program For High School Students

This Capstone project could involve developing a mental health intervention program for high school students that addresses common mental health issues and promotes positive coping strategies.

7. An Analysis Of The Impact Of Artificial Intelligence On Job Displacement

This Capstone project could explore how the use of artificial intelligence is affecting job displacement and propose solutions to minimize the negative impact on workers and the economy.

8. Investigating The Impact Of E-Commerce On Traditional Brick-And-Mortar Retail Stores

This Capstone project could analyze the effects of e-commerce on traditional retail stores, such as the impact on sales, employment, and consumer behavior, and propose potential solutions to mitigate the negative impacts.

9. Developing A Marketing Plan For A Non-Profit Organization

This Capstone project could involve developing a marketing plan for a non-profit organization, including market research, target audience identification, and promotional strategies.

10. An Analysis Of The Impact Of Immigration Policies On The Us Economy

This Capstone project could explore how changes in immigration policies are affecting the US economy, such as the impact on GDP, employment, and labor force participation, and propose potential solutions to address any negative impacts.

11. Develop A Website To Promote A Local Cultural Event

This Capstone project could involve designing and developing a website to promote a local cultural event, including information about the event, ticket sales, and promotional materials.

12. Investigating The Impact Of Technology On Sleep Patterns

This Capstone project could analyze the effects of technology on sleep patterns, such as the impact on sleep quality, duration, and sleep disorders, and propose potential solutions to promote healthy sleep habits.

13. Developing A Nutrition And Wellness Program For A Local School District

This Capstone project could involve developing a nutrition and wellness program for a local school district that promotes healthy eating habits, physical activity, and mental health.

14. An Analysis Of The Impact Of Cultural Diversity On Workplace Productivity

This Capstone project could explore how cultural diversity in the workplace affects productivity, teamwork, and innovation, and propose strategies to promote a diverse and inclusive work environment.

15. Investigating The Impact Of Ride-Sharing Services On Public Transportation

This Capstone project could analyze the effects of ride-sharing services on public transportation, such as the impact on ridership, revenues, and sustainability, and propose potential solutions to address any negative impacts.

16. Developing A Mobile Application For A Local Business

This Capstone project could involve designing and developing a mobile application for a local business that enhances the customer experience, such as online ordering, loyalty programs, and promotions.

17. An Analysis Of The Impact Of Social Media On Political Participation

This Capstone project could explore how social media use affects political participation, such as voter turnout, political engagement, and political polarization, and propose potential solutions to promote healthy political discourse.

18. Investigating The Impact Of Automation On The Manufacturing Industry

This Capstone project could analyze the effects of automation on the manufacturing industry, such as the impact on employment, productivity, and safety, and propose potential solutions to address any negative impacts.

19. Developing A Disaster Preparedness Plan For A Community

This Capstone project could involve developing a comprehensive disaster preparedness plan for a community that addresses natural disasters, such as hurricanes, floods, and wildfires.

20. An Analysis Of The Impact Of Gender Diversity On Corporate Performance

This Capstone project could explore how gender diversity in corporate leadership affects performance, such as profitability, innovation, and corporate social responsibility, and propose strategies to promote gender diversity in the workplace.

21. Investigating The Impact Of Renewable Energy On The Power Grid

This Capstone project could analyze the effects of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, on the power grid, such as the impact on grid stability, reliability, and cost, and propose potential solutions to address any challenges.

22. Developing A Cybersecurity Plan For A Small Business

This Capstone project could involve developing a cybersecurity plan for a small business that identifies potential threats and vulnerabilities, and proposes solutions to prevent cyberattacks and data breaches.

23. An Analysis Of The Impact Of Automation On The Service Industry

This Capstone project could explore how automation is affecting the service industry, such as the impact on customer service, employment, and job satisfaction, and propose potential solutions to address any negative impacts.

24. Investigating The Impact Of Music Therapy On Mental Health

This Capstone project could analyze the effects of music therapy on mental health, such as the impact on anxiety, depression, and cognitive function, and propose potential solutions to promote the integration of music therapy in mental healthcare.

25. Developing A Community-Based Recycling Program

This Capstone project could involve developing a community-based recycling program that promotes sustainable waste management and environmental stewardship.

26. An Analysis Of The Impact Of Artificial Intelligence On Healthcare

This Capstone project could explore how the use of artificial intelligence is affecting healthcare, such as the impact on patient outcomes, costs, and medical ethics, and propose potential solutions to optimize AI integration in healthcare.

27. Investigating The Impact Of Globalization On The Labor Market

This Capstone project could analyze the effects of globalization on the labor market, such as the impact on employment, wages, and labor rights, and propose potential solutions to address any negative impacts.

28. Developing A Disaster Response Plan For A Healthcare Facility

This Capstone project could involve developing a comprehensive disaster response plan for a healthcare facility that addresses natural disasters, pandemics, and other emergencies.

29. An Analysis Of The Impact Of Mindfulness Practices On Workplace Productivity

This Capstone project could explore how mindfulness practices, such as meditation and yoga, affect workplace productivity, employee engagement, and stress management, and propose strategies to promote healthy workplace practices.

30. Investigating The Impact Of Social Media On Political Polarization

This Capstone project could analyze how social media is affecting political polarization, such as the impact on political discourse, fake news, and political extremism, and propose potential solutions to promote healthy political dialogue.

31. Developing A Waste Reduction Plan For A Local Government

This Capstone project could involve developing a waste reduction plan for a local government that promotes sustainable waste management practices and reduces landfill waste.

32. An Analysis Of The Impact Of Automation On The Transportation Industry

This Capstone project could explore how automation is affecting the transportation industry, such as the impact on employment, safety, and efficiency, and propose potential solutions to address any negative impacts.

33. Investigating The Impact Of Social Media On Mental Health

This Capstone project could analyze the effects of social media on mental health, such as the impact on self-esteem, body image, and social anxiety, and propose potential solutions to promote healthy social media use.

34. Developing A Marketing Plan For A Non-Profit Organization

This Capstone project could involve developing a marketing plan for a non-profit organization that aims to raise awareness and support for a social cause.

35. An Analysis Of The Impact Of Climate Change On Agriculture

This Capstone project could explore how climate change is affecting agriculture, such as the impact on crop yields, food security, and farm income, and propose potential solutions to address any negative impacts.

36. Investigating The Impact Of Virtual Reality On Education

This Capstone project could analyze how virtual reality is affecting education, such as the impact on student engagement, learning outcomes, and accessibility, and propose potential solutions to optimize VR integration in education.

37. Developing A Workplace Diversity And Inclusion Plan

This Capstone project could involve developing a workplace diversity and inclusion plan that promotes a culture of respect, equity, and inclusion, and addresses any systemic barriers to diversity.

38. An Analysis Of The Impact Of Telemedicine On Healthcare Access

This Capstone project could explore how telemedicine is affecting healthcare access, such as the impact on patient outcomes, cost savings, and healthcare disparities, and propose potential solutions to optimize telemedicine integration in healthcare.

39. Investigating The Impact Of Globalization On The Environment

This Capstone project could analyze the effects of globalization on the environment, such as the impact on climate change, biodiversity loss, and natural resource depletion, and propose potential solutions to address any negative impacts.

40. Developing A Mental Health Awareness Campaign For A College Campus

This Capstone project could involve developing a mental health awareness campaign for a college campus that promotes mental health resources and support, and reduces stigma surrounding mental health issues.

Some Other Capstone Project Topics Ideas For Students In 2023

Here are some other capstone project topics ideas for students in 2023 :

41. Sustainable Energy Solutions for Rural Communities

42. Enhancing Cybersecurity Measures in Small Businesses

43. Analyzing the Impact of Social Media on Mental Health

44. Designing an Automated Irrigation System for Agricultural Efficiency

45. Investigating the Effects of Virtual Reality in Education

46. Developing a Mobile App for Personal Finance Management

47. Exploring Machine Learning Algorithms for Predictive Maintenance in Manufacturing

48. Assessing the Effectiveness of E-Learning Platforms in Higher Education

49. Creating a Smart Home Automation System for Energy Conservation

50. Investigating the Use of Blockchain Technology in Supply Chain Management

51. Analyzing the Impact of Social Media Influencers on Consumer Behavior

52. Designing a Medical Diagnosis Support System using Artificial Intelligence

53. Exploring the Applications of Augmented Reality in Retail Shopping

54. Developing a Smart Traffic Management System for Urban Areas

55. Evaluating the Efficiency of Renewable Energy Sources in Power Generation

56. Investigating the Effects of Gamification in Employee Training and Engagement

• Capstone Project Ideas for Civil Engineering
• Mini Project Ideas for ECE Students

How to find Capstone project topics?

Finding a Capstone project topic can be a challenging task. Here are some tips on how to find Capstone project topics:

1. Identify Your Interests

Start by identifying your interests and passions. Consider the courses that you have enjoyed in your program, the topics that have sparked your curiosity, and the issues that you are passionate about. This can help you narrow down your focus to a specific area of research.

2. Consult With Faculty

Talk to your faculty advisors or professors in your area of study. They can provide guidance on potential Capstone project topics, identify gaps in existing research, and suggest resources for your research.

3. Browse Academic Journals

Browse academic journals in your field to identify current research topics and areas that have not been fully explored. Look for research articles, case studies, and review articles related to your area of interest.

4. Attend Conferences And Seminars

Attend conferences and seminars in your field to learn about current research, trends, and challenges. You can network with other professionals, identify research gaps, and get feedback on potential Capstone project topics.

5. Look For Real-World Problems

Consider real-world problems or issues that you could address through your Capstone project. This could include issues in your local community, industry, or a global problem that you are passionate about.

6. Brainstorm With Peers

Brainstorm potential Capstone project topics with your peers or classmates. You can bounce ideas off each other and provide feedback on potential research questions, methodology, and expected outcomes.

Finding a Capstone project topic requires identifying your interests, consulting with faculty, browsing academic journals, attending conferences, looking for real-world problems, and brainstorming with peers.

Tips To Choose the Best Capstone Project Topics For Students In 2023

Here are some tips to choose the best capstone project topics for students in 2023 :

1. Choose A Topic According To Your Interest

This will make the project more enjoyable and less daunting. If you are not interested in the topic, you will be less likely to put in the hard work required to complete the project successfully.

2. Choose A Topic That Is Relevant To Your Subject

This will help you to develop your skills and knowledge in your chosen area. Your capstone project should be an opportunity for you to showcase your skills and knowledge in your field of study.

3. Choose A Topic That Is Challenging But Achievable

You should not choose a topic that is too difficult or too easy. A challenging topic will allow you to learn and grow, but it should not be so difficult that you become discouraged.

4. Talk To Your Professors And Advisors

They can help you to identify topics that are relevant to your field of study and that are within your skill level. Your professors and advisors can also provide guidance and support throughout the project.

5. Look At Previous Capstone Projects Completed By Students In Your Program

This can give you some ideas for your own project. You can also get a sense of the scope and complexity of previous projects.

6. Do Some Research Online

There are many websites that list capstone project ideas. You can also find information about specific topics and how to approach them.

7. Develop A Detailed Project Plan

This project plan will help you stay on track and make sure your project is completed on time. A project plan should include a timeline, a budget, and a list of tasks.

Significance Of Choosing The Right Capstone Project Topics

Choosing the right Capstone project topic is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it allows students to demonstrate their understanding and application of the knowledge and skills they have acquired throughout their program of study. 

Choosing a topic that is relevant to their field of study and interests can also motivate students to produce their best work and achieve their academic goals.

Secondly, a well-chosen Capstone project topic can provide students with valuable professional experience and skills. Many Capstone projects involve working with real-world clients, collaborating with professionals in their field, and conducting independent research. 

This can provide students with the opportunity to develop important skills such as project management , critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving, which are highly valued by employers.

Finally, a well-designed Capstone project can make a meaningful contribution to the student’s field of study or community. Choosing a topic that addresses a real-world problem or gap in knowledge can result in a project that has a positive impact beyond the academic setting. 

This can increase the student’s sense of purpose and contribute to their personal and professional development.

Overall, choosing the right Capstone project topic is important because it can motivate students to produce their best work, provide them with valuable professional experience and skills, and make a meaningful contribution to their field of study or community.

In conclusion, a Capstone project is a culminating academic experience that provides students with the opportunity to demonstrate their mastery of knowledge and skills in their field of study. Choosing the right Capstone project topic is crucial for students to achieve their academic and professional goals, as well as contribute to their community. 

With the right capstone project  topic, students can develop valuable skills and experience, create a positive impact in their field of study, and make a meaningful contribution to their community. As such, it is important for students to carefully consider their Capstone project topic and select one that aligns with their interests and program learning outcomes.

Q1. What are some trending capstone project topics in the field of computer science?

Some trending capstone project topics in computer science include artificial intelligence in healthcare, blockchain technology applications, and cybersecurity advancements.

Q2. How can a capstone project in business management contribute to real-world success?

A capstone project in business management allows students to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios, develop problem-solving skills, and gain hands-on experience, thus contributing to real-world success by preparing them for the challenges of the business environment.

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105 Original Capstone Project Ideas for STEM Students

What is a Capstone Project? A capstone project refers to a final or culminating project high school or college seniors need to earn their degrees. It’s usually a project that takes several months to complete and should demonstrate students’ command over particular subjects within an area of study. It may be similar to master’s thesis writing. There are endless capstone project ideas to choose from, but sometimes students struggle to come up with research topic ideas, so we’ve explored several fresh capstone project topics for consideration.

Business Capstone Project Ideas

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• How important are small businesses and startups to the United States’ economy?
• Is diversity in the workplace an important quality of how successful a business is?
• Is a free market truly achievable or this is just an outdated utopian idea from the past?
• How difficult is it for entrepreneurs to gain funding support to open up a business?
• How are advances in crisis management changing the ways that businesses find success?
• Is it important to have a social media presence when starting a new small business?
• What business or industries do the best during times of extended international conflict?
• What are the healthiest diets and how do nurses help promote them for in-patients?
• What are some of the psychological conditions affecting healing in patients with cancer?
• What are the most effective nursing techniques for dealing with cancer patients?
• Should nurses take a more proactive role in investigating instances of patient abuse?
• Should nurses be required to learn how to use technological tools for better care?
• How do nurses manage anxiety and fear in their patients who are dealing with illness?
• Should nurses take a greater role in providing recommendations for patients in care?
• Should physical education courses be a mandatory subject throughout high school?
• How effective are standardized tests in determining students’ skill level and knowledge?
• What is the evidence suggesting that video game violence is connected to real violence?
• Are mobile phones tools that should be allowed in classes to enhance the school experience?
• What is the most effective way of dealing with bullies at school? What is the evidence?
• Should students earning good grades receive monetary incentives or other rewards?
• Will the legalization of sports betting help raise more money for public schools?
• Are SCRUM methodologies still an effective way of dealing the product development?
• Is software engineering still a sought-after technical skill or is the subject outdated?
• In what ways are search algorithms being advanced to help the use of data mining?
• What are the most versatile programming languages in the field of computer science?
• How has computer science helped further the study of biomedicine and biology?
• What kind of impact has computer science and engineering had on human learning?
• Will computer science play a role in developing food science to end hunger?
• How has encryption and decryption technology changed in the last two decades?
• Is bank security at risk from international hackers or has security up-to-date?
• How is the internet affecting the way our private information is communicated?
• Should governments have the right to monitor citizens’ electronic activities?
• Does a federal judge need to issue warrants before people’s tech activities are checked?
• Does open source software put users at risk of having their information stolen?
• How safe are mobile phones in keeping our information safe from hackers?
• How important is it for companies to test their software updates for quality assurance?
• What are some of the more serious challenges government agencies experience daily?
• How important is the user of CMS technology in e-commerce for small businesses?
• Are our IT skills still relevant in a world where AI is increasingly becoming more cost-effective?
• In what ways is information technology important for improving standardized testing?
• What are the most important economic models in current use in developing IT?
• What benefits do human-computer interfaces systems have for today’s small businesses?
• What are the best critical care methods currently in practice in medical emergencies?
• What effects has the growing shortage of qualified nurses had on the United States?
• Are the growing cost of nursing school and training leading to a shortage of professionals?
• How important is point-of-care testing and why are health care facilities ending programs?
• Are nurses appropriately trained to deal with patients that suffer from breathing issues?
• What are the skills needed for nurses to work in high-stress stations such as the ER or trauma?
• How important is patient communication when it comes to proper diagnoses of illnesses?
• Which is the United States’ favorite sports pastime and how has this changed over time?
• Do you believe that students who participate in hazing should be punished for negligence?
• How important is it for schools to prevent hazing rituals conducted by their students?
• What evidence is there in support of alien life? Do governments know of alien life?
• Is damage to religious property considered a hate crime despite the actual intention?
• How influential is the United States’ political system towards its international allies?
• In what ways did the Cold War affect the U.S.’s international relationships with allies?
• How effective will revenue generation from legalized gambling be for the economy?
• Is it possible for gamblers to use tech to gain advantages over hotel sportsbooks?
• Is it important for major coffee companies to be socially and environmentally responsible?
• Why is it so important to protect victims’ rights in instances of domestic violence?
• Do you believe it is ethical for people to clone their beloved pets so they live on?
• Should communities be responsible for ensuring students are adequately fed at school?
• What kind of animal makes for a better childhood pet? Dogs, cats, or something else?
• What are some of the benefits and negatives of living in a tech-driven modern society?
• How does your experience in dealing with people affect the way you deal with tech?
• What is the most important information technology advancement to affect the world?
• Do you think the internet needs better censorship of certain negative material?
• Are children better off today because of the access to IT in comparison to prior gens?
• Do you believe that China will be the world’s technological leader in the next decade?
• How has technology changed the countries engage in modern warfare and conflict?
• How important is it to further develop mobile technologies for social media use?
• Is social media becoming obsolete and in what ways are consumers using the tech?
• Does web-based training improve one’s ability to learn new skills at a fraction of the cost?
• Should internet providers take better care of keeping consumers’ privacy secure?
• How important is it to monitor how social media uses consumers’ browsing histories?
• In what ways does IT play a role in how engineers develop transportation routes?
• How has IT changed the way companies conduct their business around the world?
• How are gun laws being affected by the kind of information provided by data science?
• Gathering information for disease control has changed how in the last 20 years?
• In what ways is the information gathered from big data a company’s biggest asset?
• How did Trump benefit from the use of data science leading up to the election?
• How effective are sports franchises in making decisions based on big data science?
• Is it possible to avoid over-saturation of information in the age of data science?
• How is big data working to make artificial intelligence in business a real possibility?
• How are infographics affecting the way people consume information in today’s world?
• Is it possible for another major election to be tampered with by foreign governments?
• Are people becoming less educated as a result of the amount of information consumed?
• Will video games play a role in removing soldiers from harmful front-line combat zones?
• Do you think public colleges and universities should move towards faith-based teaching?
• Is it still sufficient to have a college-level education to succeed in today’s economy?
• Should the United States invest in and provide longer paid leave for new parents?
• Does economics or science play a bigger role in Europe’s decision to ban modified crops?
• What are the most optimal diets safe for human consumption in the long term?
• Is it possible to incorporate physical exercise as a way to modify DNA coding in humans?
• Do you believe that personal medication that is designed specifically for genomes is possible?
• Is it scientifically ethical to alter the DNA of a fetus for reasons related to genetic preference?
• Is science an effective discipline in the way people are being tried for violent crimes?
• How effective is stem cell science and its use in treatments for diseases such as cancer?
• How important is business diplomacy in successful negotiations for small companies?
• What role does a positive and healthy workplace have in retaining high-quality staff?
• What sort of challenges does small business face that large corporations don’t experience?
• Should workplace diversity rules and standards be regulated by state or federal law?
• How important is it to be competitive in advertising to open a small business?
• Are large corporations making the right kinds of innovative investments to stay relevant?
• How important is the word of mouth marketing in today’s age of digital communications?

The above capstone project ideas are available to use or modify at no cost. For even more capstone project topics or to get capstone project examples, contact a professional writing service for affordable assistance. A reliable service can help you understand what is a capstone project even more so by providing clear instructions on the capstone project meaning as well as the most common requirements you can expect from today’s academic institutions.

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Planning a Capstone Experience for Your High School Student | Rustic Pathways

How to utilize summer travel programs for a graduation project.

Planning a Capstone Experience for Your High School Student

What is a high school capstone project.

A capstone project is a final research or creative effort at the end of a student’s studies. The capstone project helps students show their knowledge in a specific subject area. These capstone projects can be mandatory or voluntary as part of a curriculum. Popular capstones are research papers, creative projects, or community service initiatives. The term comes from architecture, where the capstone is a final piece on top a building. This “cap stone” signifies that construction is complete.

It’s becoming increasingly common for schools to require students to round out their high school education with a capstone experience. This can include a culminating project, trip, or activity that allows students to have community-based learning opportunities. It’s one thing to talk about poverty, environmental degradation or other worldly threats in a classroom – It’s another thing to see it and work on ways to alleviate it.

Rustic students help build new homes during the Floating Village Service Expedition in Cambodia.

Exploring these aspects of life first-hand is not only a crucial part of self-development. It also can help students on many other fronts.

The Advantages of a Capstone Experience

Capstone projects on the high school level became more prominent before the turn of the century. A 2000 study by Stanford University found that seniors were studying less and taking less demanding courses and that was having an impact on post-secondary success.

The problem often stems from the fact that seniors tend to trail off in their engagement once college acceptances are announced or other career choices are made. The Stanford study found that even students who took more rigorous senior courses were more likely to drop out of college or need remedial courses if they had a strong case of senioritis.

A capstone experience or graduation project is intended to prevent these problems and keep students engaged. It also has many other benefits, including:

• Increasing motivation and confidence
• Preparing students for college and careers
• Giving students a real world perspective
• Helping higher-order thinking and problem solving skills
• Bridging theory with practice
• Making connections

Donate your time to working with Peruvian youth on meaningful education initiatives. Copyright: © 2014 Rustic Pathways

Clayton County High Schools in Georgia found that these projects led to job offers, internships and scholarships. In Baton Rouge Louisiana, Central High School noted that more than half of seniors thought the experience had influenced their future careers or plans.

A number of these projects involve multiple steps, including proposals, hands-on work, papers and presentations. As part of the process, a summer program between junior and senior year is frequently utilized by students. Some sophomores also begin the journey before their junior year to iron out the details of what they hope to accomplish.

How to Pick a Summer Program

A summer program can play a significant role in a capstone project. Here are ways that can work:

Explore a Global Topic of Interest

Many students have an interest in subjects such as animal conservation, environmental degradation, worldwide poverty or public health. They can use a summer program to look at an issue with a broader perspective than what they may see at home.

It could look something like this:

Project – Saving Endangered and Threatened Species

• Research the topic
• Look into local organizations involved in the effort (city zoo, a nature reserve or rehab center). Volunteer in a local project.
• Travel to Costa Rica for the Turtle Conservation Project . Learn how biologists are saving threatened sea turtles in another country. Give 30 more hours of service dedicated to this project
• Write reflections on the trip
• Return home and use the knowledge gained to further local efforts
• Put together any required elements – papers, presentations, etc.

Students learn about threatened sea turtles in Costa Rica.

These same steps could be followed with a host of other projects. This could include a focus on supplying clean water to communities that would involve traveling to the Dominican Republic for the Mountain Air and Island Living program. Or a student could explore issues related to wealth inequality and sign up for the Come with Nothing program in Thailand.

Learn More about a Career

Many teens are of course uncertain about what path they may want to take after high school. They also could have a career idea but may want to be sure they’re making the right choices. A capstone project is a great opportunity to explore options.

Project – Improving Access to Healthcare

• Volunteer at the local clinic, fire station or other healthcare organization
• Travel to the Dominican Republic for the Public Health in the Caribbean program
• Learn about the challenges some people face in accessing healthcare
• Gather 30 hours of service while earning your Wilderness First Aid and CPR certification
• Use the knowledge gained to explore careers in the healthcare field
• Put together required elements to complete the project  – papers, presentations, etc.

Students learn about public health during the Public Health in the Caribbean program.

Other options could include learning about education through the Summer Camp Leadership program in Costa Rica or delving into biology through numerous programs, such as the Animal Conservation in Australia program.

A student also could explore topics related to international relations in a number of programs. One option includes the Great Ghana Adventure program where students learn about the transatlantic slave trade, the effects of colonialism, and the culture of indigenous groups.

Provide Service for Personal Development

Many schools include the option of having a capstone project center entirely on service. If that is the case, giving service in different settings and countries provides a much deeper perspective. Two programs that provide extensive service opportunities are Culture and the Crater in Tanzania and Life in the Bateyes in the Dominican Republic.

Both of these programs involve 50 hours of service. In Tanzania, students work with village leaders on service projects to improve living conditions and infrastructure. They also spend time on safari and learning about the nomadic Hadzabe, one of the last remaining hunter-gatherer tribes.

In the Dominican Republic, students are immersed in the underserved communities where Haitian sugar cane workers live. Students work on various construction and agricultural projects, help run a summer camp, and unwind on the beach.

These ideas are just the tip of the iceberg. With a number of countries and programs to explore, there are many options.

Whatever summer program is chosen, students will certainly gain 21st century skills and knowledge that will help them to keep moving forward. For more trip information, visit our program page . On this page, options can be sorted by program type, service hours, and more. This will help spark ideas and enable students to start planning ways to round out their high school years in the best way possible.

Mary Rogelstad

Content writer.

Mary is a Content Writer at Rustic Pathways. She has been a writer and editor for nearly 20 years. Prior to covering student travel, Mary created content for the music education company J.W. Pepper & Son. She also was a writer and producer at CNN International and a communications director for a social service agency and a K-12 private school.

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Writing Your Senior Capstone Project to Make It a Total Success

Senior capstone: the essence and importance.

Making sure you obtain academic achievement in high school lays the stage for future difficulties in your life and career. So, your capstone project is a significant experience with a lot of value you get when graduating high school .

The capstone senior project is the most important written work that high school students encounter. The last year’s work aims to test the acquired knowledge and skills of the student, explore their abilities, and evaluate the student’s learning progress. However, what distinguishes a senior capstone project from a similar one prepared at the higher-university level is that it also allows senior students to figure out what field they want to connect their life with.

The number of fields for school students to choose from is wider than those of university students. This has its advantages and disadvantages. Thus, the student has more senior capstone project ideas high school would approve of, making it easier to select a topic for a successful senior project. But at the same time, it is essential to pick the area which interests the student and what they would like to do in the future.

Moreover, the senior capstone project is quite demanding – yet it is closer to an assignment at a university level – the one college students always do. And also, a capstone assignment is a great way of preparing a student for new academic challenges.

With a well-made senior capstone project, you can easily imagine your further career ideas. While preparing, you can:

• Estimate your level of being a team player. You will work together with other people while preparing the senior capstone project assignment. So you can understand what skills you lack to become a leader and stand out among the crowd. Also, you will have an opportunity to boost your skills.
• Stand out of the crowd in your future CV. By completing this challenging task of preparing a perfect capstone project, you show potential employers that you’re more than just a candidate with the required academic credentials. It demonstrates your commitment to a problem that needs time and effort, as well as your professionalism and practical experience.
• Gain new skills and become valuable for employers. When integrating into the new world of career requirements, it is crucial to know that you need to be superior among the candidates. Your excellent capstone project can be an example of your efforts, skills, and knowledge. The senior capstone project aims to instill a set of specialized proficiency that is highly desired by employers and will eventually help you succeed in your profession.

Creating a senior capstone project is also valuable because it can help them decide on a profession. And with a successful outcome, this project can also significantly advance the student’s admission.

Senior Capstone Projects: How to Craft a Perfect Project?

There are many details and nuances that affect not only the final result of the senior capstone project but also the smoothness of the preparation process. However, it is still possible to design a guide that would include all the key moments:

• Selecting a great topic among the best senior capstone project ideas.
• Doing thorough research and conducting a mini field study.
• Studying the discovered materials, getting advice from other subject-related specialists.
• Writing the capstone paper according to all the requirements.
• Working on the wording of the paper and your final presentation.

Based on the studied by us senior capstone examples, we consider the first and the last stages key to making a successful capstone project. The first one should be assisted with the proper analysis of the student – the topic should complement the strong sides of the senior. Regarding the final stage – the proper formulation of the sentences ensures the wanted perception of both your senior capstone project purpose and your character. And since it is always easier to judge a character from aside, our top experts are ready to assist you in making yourself understood.

What Are the Challenges of Writing Capstone Senior Project?

The biggest challenge with senior capstone projects is that they are incredibly time-consuming. Typically, those projects are long-term and require the student to work on them during their whole senior year. It impedes the simultaneous exam preparations and even prevents some students from getting all the vital high school experiences.

Naturally, senior students want to get the most out of their last school year – after their senior capstone college days come. And this is exactly why we are here at your service! We aim to let you enjoy your last glimpses of careless school years by taking the project off your schedule. We can help you not just complete that senior capstone project as a routine assignment but execute it flawlessly. Thus, you will get a top grade and an advantage during the admissions process.

In addition, we are excited to help you choose your career path! Deciding which traits and skills of yours could be the most useful to you and the world, and also discovering the area of your vocation – is what we are looking for. So here, you can get not only high-quality papers for your senior capstone project but comprehensive support from top subject-matter experts!

Turn Senior Capstone Project Ideas Into Highest-Grade Writing

Picking the right topic is key in a senior capstone project – we can’t stress it enough!

“As you name the boat, so shall it float” – this saying sums it all up. Unless you manage to select the most beneficial capstone topic for you, you are likely to fail.

The senior capstone project topics, as well as the project itself, should reflect your best side and all of your skills and knowledge. It should serve as a reflection of both your intellect and personality. It should be interesting and engaging, deep and meaningful, useful and applicable.

Coming up with an idea for such a senior capstone project is an exhausting and stressful business. Therefore, we are here to help you with the most important step of this senior project, as well as with all the following steps.

Get Our Help With Your Senior Capstone Project High School Level

So, contact us to get the most out of your last school days but at the same time obtain a high-level senior capstone project. We will save your nerves, which are already significantly spent on exam preparations and the everyday troubles of senior students.

We are ready to help you create a strategy and outline for your senior capstone, which would surprise your tutors. No deadlines or requirements can scare us – whenever you get in touch with us; we are here to assist you in planning and implementing your senior capstone project.

With our assistance with your senior capstone project high school experiences won’t be missed by you!

You have an opportunity to get your capstone project done week by week by the same writer according to the timeline.

We write your capstone project from the ground up and double-check it with plagiarism detection software.

We assign no general writers to your order. You are guaranteed to work with one of the top-rated PhD/MA experts in your area.

The Call to Servant Leadership: Senior Social Justice Capstone Projects

Written by Molly Bardine, English Teacher and Department Chair, Senior Capstone Coordinator [email protected]

Ten years ago, the director of our Campus Ministry, Kelli Kinnear, approached me about revising the senior service project. Previously, seniors chose a social justice issue and as an entire class organized a service project which often centered around a fundraiser and then an educational awareness campaign.  The goal of revising the current project was to challenge our seniors to take on a more independent but still collaborative role in making an impact on an issue, and specifically move from service to justice with a focus on leadership. 

Cross-Curricular and Inquiry Based

The Chaminade Julienne Capstone Project is a cross-curricular, inquiry-based research project which aims to move students from required service hours to a justice project where they are the leaders of social change and civic action. Students evaluate issues through the lens of Catholic Social Teaching themes of Life and Dignity of the Human Person, Call to Family, Community and Participation, Rights and Responsibilities, Option for the Poor and Vulnerable, the Dignity of Work and the Rights of Workers, Solidarity and Care for God’s Creation. Various projects undertake such social issues as poverty, body image, food deserts, human trafficking, mental health, education, environmentalism, fair trade, immigration and refugees and many more. The project often builds upon the Integrated Social Justice Research Paper written during their junior year. Students research an issue related to a service placement.  

Seniors work in teams of two, three or four for an entire school year to complete the four phases of the project. Phase one is completed at the start of the school year. Students write a 200-250-word proposal identifying their issue, compose three research questions for their inquiry and explore possible project ideas. Then during phase two students complete a six to ten source annotated bibliography which will inform their project. The project must be grounded in research. Phase three is the implementation of the project. Students may create something, take a specific action or both.  Finally, in phase four students present their findings in a public forum and individually write a reflection about the entire project. Our public forum is the Sister Dorothy Stang Symposium which honors the life and legacy of Sister Dorothy Stang, SNDdeN ‘49, who was martyred in 2005 for her work regarding human dignity, justice for the poor and sustaining the balance of the rainforest.

Faith in Action

In their final reflections students will often recognize how they have found the project to be a concrete way to put their Catholic faith into action. They are able to recognize that they have within themselves the power to make an impact on an issue and the lives of others. As one senior wrote this past year, “Through reading about Catholic Social Teachings, I grew in my faith as I learned that I should always be working towards helping those in need as it is what God calls me to do.  I have always valued justice and believed that everyone deserves to be treated fairly and with respect…I realized that this is something that I could be (and should be) doing for the rest of my life. Service and helping others gives my life purpose and this capstone process has helped me learn that I am truly a service-oriented person who values compassion and integrity.”

The Capstone experience has energized our entire school and local community as we witness our seniors really come to understand the call of servant leadership in the Church and we are very inspired by their various projects. 

Chaminade Julienne Catholic High School, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, was the recipient of the Dr. Karen M. Ristau Innovations Award , part of the annual NCEA President’s Awards.

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Six seniors recognized with Dean’s Awards for outstanding capstone projects

Topics include a method to detect earthquake victims and an image-to-text application for the visually impaired.

Six SEAS students have been recognized with Dean’s Award for Outstanding Engineering Projects (Eliza Grinnell/SEAS)

Six students from the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS) were recognized with the Dean’s Award for Outstanding Engineering Projects at the recent SEAS Design and Project Fair at the Science and Engineering Complex. Recipients participated in ES100, a year-long capstone course for seniors in the SB engineering program, where each student develops a project to address a real-world engineering problem. The award comes with a prize of $500.

“SEAS students make things that may be really cool, quirky, or fun,” said SEAS Dean David Parkes. “And just as often, their work will help solve a real-world problem and have a significant impact on people’s lives. During ES100, a year-long capstone course for seniors in the SB engineering program, students tackle specific problems. They develop technical specs, design solutions, test their ideas using quantitative analysis and simulations, prototype, and build.”

For the 2023-24 academic year, 42 students completed ES100 projects. Five projects, including one two-student team project, were selected for the award. The award-winning projects covered a broad range of topics, including a remote sensor network for detecting earthquake victims trapped under rubble, an image-to-text application for the visually impaired, a quadcopter drone with enhanced maneuverability, and tool for determining potential water contaminants and suggested filtration solutions in wells.

Serena Zhao’s bioengineering capstone, “Developing Uniform, Photon-Emitting Nanoprobes for Multi-Color Electron Microscopy,” designed nanoprobes that emit colored light when hit by protons from an electron microscope, allowing for much more detailed imaging at the nanoscale level.

“Electron microscopy (EM) images are black and white,” Zhao said. “There’s no specificity, no color labeling. When it comes to studying complex biological processes, that’s a huge disadvantage. My project was trying to build these nanoprobes that emit color under EM, so we can get an electron image, a colored probe image, and then we can overlay them into a colored, labeled image that still has specificity and high resolution.”

The other four award winners were:

• Arba Shkreli and Molly Bosworth , electrical engineering, for their project, “SeASAR: Sensor Application for Search & Rescue in Urban Settings”
• Yasmine Omri, electrical engineering, for her project, “Towards a Real-Time Image-to-Speech Tool for the Visually Impaired: Efficient Hardware for On-device Image Classification”
• Lachlan McGranahan , mechanical engineering, for his project, “Modeling, Simulation, and Control for a Tilt-Rotor Quadcopter”
• Layla Seaver, environmental science and engineering, for her project, “Addressing Forever Chemicals: An Algorithm for PFAS Prediction Modeling and Filter Selection for Private Well-Users”

“I’m interested in using my engineering background to serve actual human needs,” Omri said. “My project falls into a field that we call ‘tiny machine learning.’ I wanted to find a way to run a very complex system locally, with energy efficiency and performance speed. I tried to consolidate it into a practical, application-based system focused specifically on the visually impaired.”

Four SEAS students received Honorable Mention for their senior capstone projects (Eliza Grinnell/SEAS)

Four additional SEAS students received Honorable Mentions for their capstone projects. They are:

• Cherish Jongwe, bioengineering, for his project, “Biofilm-Enhanced Household Water Filtration System for Heavy Metals Removal”
• Nicholas Laws , mechanical engineering, for his project, “Visualization Tool for Chemical Kinetic Pathways in Plasma-Assisted Combustion”
• Anna Ramos, electrical engineering, for her project, “Eye Controls for Quadriplegic Gamers”
• Emma Zuckerman , mechanical engineering, for her project, “Low Reynolds Number Anemometer for Earth’s Stratosphere and the Martian Atmosphere”

Seaver also received a $500 award from the Society of American Military Engineers. A former project lead and co-president of the Harvard chapter of Engineers Without Borders, Seaver has devoted most of her Harvard career to water research and infrastructure development.

“I took Elsie Sunderland’s class on toxicology, which introduced the idea of forever chemicals and contaminants like PFAS,” Seaver said. “When it came time to choose a thesis topic, I thought about the importance of these emerging contaminants for water quality and public health, and how I had the opportunity to work with one of the leading experts in this field through Elsie’s lab. If I could create a tool to make that information from the lab more readily available to users, that’d be the best way I could have an impact with my thesis.”

After she graduates, she’ll be working on water projects at the Boston office of Kleinfelder, an engineering firm.

“One of their most recent developments is looking at PFAS removal technology at the municipal level, which I’m really excited about,” she said.

Topics: Academics , Dean , Awards , Bioengineering , Electrical Engineering , Environmental Science & Engineering , Materials Science & Mechanical Engineering

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Engineering students collaborate with industries on capstone projects

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May 8, 2024 : By Ted Allen - Office of Communications & Public Engagement

Capstone, also known as senior design, is the culminating academic experience for Liberty University School of Engineering (LUSE) students and a significant résumé-enriching achievement as they prepare to transition to professional careers.

“Each student works on a team of four to six to design a new product or process or make significant design improvement on existing systems,” said Dr. Howie Fang, a professor and chair of the mechanical engineering department and director of LUSE’s capstone program. “It’s a creative activity, and students do that for their client, who works with the student team over the period of two semesters.”

That creativity and collaboration was on display during Thursday’s Engineering Capstone Expo in the Montview Alumni Ballroom. For this academic year, LUSE offered 22 capstone projects to 97 engineering students with 18 projects from industry partners. Area businesses included Automated Conveyer Systems Inc., Centra, Delta Star, Framatome, Harco Fittings, Lawrence Companies, and Master Engineers & Designers. Students also worked with multi-industry companies such as Textron, and government agencies like NAVAIR, who have provided funding for and benefited from students’ innovative capstone projects. (See the full list of industry sponsors below.)

“It is very important for our students to learn real-world engineering problems and how to find solutions to those problems before they go out and get into industry as engineers,” Fang said. “Then, they are prepared and comfortable applying what they have learned in the classroom to real-life engineering challenges in their new jobs.”

Capstone teams involved students from all five engineering programs: mechanical, electrical, computer, industrial & systems, and civil engineering.

“Dr. Howie Fang is a world-leader in design optimization methodologies and has taught that in the context of the Creationeering process to the senior students while integrating it with real-world engineering problems,” School of Engineering Dean Mark Horstemeyer said, with Creationeering referring to his coined term for the interface between business and engineering and the creative inspiration from God in students’ research and design. “I am so proud to have Howie Fang in the LUSE as his leadership has raised the standard for the school.”

Such was the case for Tanner Randall, who will start this month at Framatome in its thermal hydraulics and component testing center after leading a team of six mechanical engineering students who worked under the supervision of Framatome mechanical engineer and software developer Greg Troyer to analyze the natural frequencies of nuclear reactor vessel internals (RVI), which facilitate fission in extreme environments. Christopher Pace, an electrical engineering student who worked on another Framatome-sponsored project, has also been hired by the company, which has its North American headquarters in Lynchburg, Va.

Katherine Rioux and fellow mechanical engineering students Fady Fayek, Caleb Schaible, and Logan Drawbaugh worked with Dr. Andy McIntosh from Leeds University in England to develop a Biomimic Novel Spray System, using the bombardier beetle as its model for extinguishing fires. She has landed a job working on E2D Hawkeye Airborne Command and Control Aircraft at NAVAIR in Patuxent, Md.

“It’s been a steep learning curve, but the cool thing about being tossed into the deep end is you either sink or swim, and I didn’t want to sink, so I learned,” said Rioux, who had internships with NAVAIR over the past two summers.

At last spring’s Expo, Josh Ingram and his team won the Capstone Legacy Award for their best product design for NAVAIR, a small tool that can be used to repair the engine of the V-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft. Ingram was hired by BWXT last May while Zach Deluth, another member of this team, was hired by NAVAIR.

“The team worked with NAVAIR really well, and the product the students delivered to them is ready to be made for them to use to maintain these aircraft, so they were really happy,” Fang said.

Due to the quality of work produced by the engineering students on that capstone project, NAVAIR’s Cherry Point, N.C., location sponsored two capstone projects for Liberty’s engineering students this year.

Several of the seniors said the capstone projects stretched them more than any other class they had taken toward their degree, challenging them to put what they have learned in the classroom into practical application.

“It’s hands-on, working with a real customer, solving real problems, and it really made them think through, identifying what the problem is, coming up with solutions to that problem,” School of Engineering Lab Manager Marc Jantomaso said. “They built really good relationships with the clients.”

In recent years, as the School of Engineering has grown — both in number of students and faculty and in reputation in the Lynchburg, Va., area and around the nation and the world — more and more connections have been made between graduating seniors and area engineering companies.

“Through the capstone program, we have built up some very good relationships with industry that will tremendously benefit our engineering students, as well as the industry, providing the students with opportunities to refine their learning and open doors for employers to hire highly skilled graduates,” Fang said. “It’s a win-win situation. We can have more impact for students if we bring real-world applications, real-world projects from industry and let students work with industry people directly in these projects.”

This year, the projects received more than four times the total amount of funding as last year, allowing the seniors to develop more elaborate projects with greater functionality.

“They have more financial resources now, so they can do more,” Fang said. “When you go out to industry, your project can run anywhere from hundreds to thousands of dollars. That is the scale type of work from industry, and that is very beneficial to students if you can have a project with that complexity. So, from that perspective, we try to attract as many industry projects as possible.”

With genius inspired by God, and plenty of direction from faculty advisors and the clients they are doing their capstone projects for, the student teams “make miracles happen,” said Liberty President Dondi Costin, who attended the Expo.

“I was blown away at every single station, and I couldn’t believe it,” he said. “This is a true testament of your education … (and) exactly what Liberty University is all about. It’s taking young men and women who have natural talent and who have been raised with character and who are brought here by God, who have an individual ability and skill and passion and motivation and coming together as a team and using that skill in concert with the skills of others who are just as intelligent and passionate and gifted.”

2023-24 Engineering Capstone Industry Sponsors

Automated Conveyer Systems (ACS) Inc.

Centra Health

Corvid Technologies LLC

Delta Star, Inc.

Energy & Automation, Inc.

FarmBot Inc.

Harco Fittings

Kapstone Projects LLC

Lawrence Companies

Master Engineers & Designers

McKee Foods Corporation

U.S. Navy’s Fleet Readiness Center East (NAVAIR)

Textron Specialized Vehicles

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• A Ventilation Coach for Opioid Overdose...

A Ventilation Coach for Opioid Overdose Bystanders Takes Top Prize at Inaugural Capstone Design Expo

• student competition
• undergraduate
• capstone design expo

Dean's Award winners with Testudo, Dean Samuel Graham, Jr., and Fischell Department of Bioengineering Chair John Fisher

The opioid overdose epidemic—which claimed more than 110,000 lives in the U.S. last year alone—has prompted an urgent need for accessible solutions to save lives outside of hospital settings.

Maryland bioengineering seniors rose to the challenge in the Clark School’s inaugural Capstone Design Expo by developing a device that empowers bystanders and non-EMTs to properly and safely provide overdose victims with rescue breaths.

Their capstone design project, “ Accessible Ventilation Coach for Opioid Overdose Bystanders ,” won the Dean’s Award (and a $1,000 prize) at the May 1 event, held on UMD’s College Park campus at the XFINITY Center. The bioengineering team’s innovative adjunctive device, which uses a printed circuit board, connects to a bag valve mask (BVM) and provides visual guide LEDs for the proper rate and depth of breath compressions, along with feedback LEDs synchronized with the user’s performance. An audio system also provides coaching during use, guiding users in real time to increase or decrease their speed or pressure of compressions. Advisors to the team were Associate Professor Ian White of the Fischell Department of Bioengineering and Robert E. Fischell Institute for Biomedical Devices , and physician scientist, entrepreneur, and Associate Dean for Innovation and Physician Science Development at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, Dr. Jason Rose.

“The number one cause of death from opioids is respiratory failure,” explained team lead and Clark School senior Kelly Yeung, “so the best immediate treatment is to support respirations. But safe use of a BVM requires training: That’s why we developed this device, to empower people to perform life-saving breaths before EMS arrives,” said Yeung, who also works as an additive technician at Terrapin Works . “We’ve imagined that this could be similar to an automated external defibrillator for cardiac arrest—and stationed in similar locations.”

The Capstone Design Expo brought more than 500 senior-level students from across Maryland Engineering’s civil and environmental, aerospace, mechanical, and bioengineering programs to present their capstone projects. Working under the guidance of faculty members and industry experts, students engaged in a year-long engineering project process that culminated in the design competition judged by experts in their respective fields.

“I want to thank our students for designing these innovative engineering solutions to some of the grand challenges we’re facing. We are very proud. These projects point to your quality work and collaboration—and to your desire to make a difference in the world through engineering,” Clark School Dean Samuel Graham, Jr., told the participants at the event.

Capstone Design Expo Photo Gallery

Civil and environmental engineering senior projects ranged from heat index and power outage emergency frameworks, to analysis of roadway infrastructure, to “cooler” solutions for bus stop design in Washington, D.C. Working under the guidance of Professor Deb Niemeier , the Clark Distinguished Chair in Energy and Sustainability, with senior project manager at Allan Myers Will Sigafoose as client contact, the department’s winning project, “ Alternative Central Avenue Conduit System ,” provides a case study in response to the Central Avenue Design-Build project in Baltimore and serves as a general guide for future conduit redevelopment projects.

“The students are eager to show what they’ve accomplished, not only solving engineering problems but helping to solve ethical and social issues, too,” said Nii O. Attoh-Okine , chair of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering. “It’s not all about profit, but it’s about answering the question, ‘how did we touch others with our design’?”

Bioengineering and biocomputational engineering majors worked to make medicine safer, more effective, and more accessible through projects that aim to improve current standards of care for treating aneurysms, diagnosing Covid-19, improving the tracheostomy process, and more. The winning team’s project, “ A Modified Syringe Design to Simplify the Preparation of Weight-Based Pediatric Medication ,” proposes a cost-effective, user-friendly, syringe-like device that features an adjustment dial to reduce risk of error and improve pediatric patient outcomes.

Project judge Matthew Dowling ’12 is founder and chief scientific officer of biotechnology research company Medcura and a member of the department’s advisory board. Having participated in departmental capstone showcases for several years, he said he always enjoys the interaction with students. “I get to hear how they’re learning about bioengineering and applying what they learn,” he said. “It’s great how they’re partnered with clinicians who introduce them to real, unmet needs—that’s huge.”

Alison Flatau , chair of the Department of Aerospace Engineering, called the Capstone Design Expo “a fantastic opportunity for students and faculty.” She said she was impressed with how well teams of more than twenty students tasked with mission challenges were able to integrate their pieces of the larger, system-level scope. “It gave me a great sense of pride seeing how well prepared our students are for taking on the big and high-impact challenges that are ahead of them.”

Project judge Megan Bock ’06, M.Eng. ’10 , a missions systems engineer at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, remembers her own capstone process as a Clark School student. “I know what the capstone experience did for me. I learned a ton, and it was probably the most realistic simulation of life as a NASA engineer,” she said. That’s why she returns to campus: “I view this as part of the cycle of life, and I want to come back and see who I’m going to be working with someday.”

Harry Dankowicz , chair of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, noted the enormous diversity—and coverages—he saw at Capstone Design Expo. “Even in different engineering disciplines, our students are often tasked with the same kinds of challenges, and they have to bring in tools from outside of what they’re immediately learning,” he said. “There’s both the diversification of the problems and the convergences that really make a difference to solutions.”

As executive vice president and chief operating officer at the Housing Authority of Baltimore City, mechanical engineering alumna and project judge Monica Watkins ’94 is always on the lookout for tomorrow’s engineers. “I have made it my personal mission to be involved,” she said, and she liked what she saw. “What I’m observing is the thought process—the intentionality, the critical thinking, the strategic planning and design. We value those skills. Not just that you’re an engineer, but that you have the mindset to work through problems and recommend solutions that we may not have considered.”

For the Dean’s Award winners, the team is looking ahead to what’s next for their medical device to empower opioid overdose bystanders. “I was super stoked to hear from everyone that they wanted to see this go to market and that they see this as a viable solution,” said Yeung. “Moving forward I want to see where this goes. I think it could be something big.”

To read more about all 98 student teams, visit the Capstone Design Expo site .

Published May 8, 2024

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ASU sustainability students tackle hotel food waste

Students of the Master of Sustainability Solutions program presented their capstone project on sustainable food waste management practices for their community partner, Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Hotel. From left: Ani Hanesyan, Jaclyn Reynolds, Chassidy Manlapid, Zachary Albregts. Courtesy photo

Graduating seniors from the School of Sustainability , a unit of the College of Global Futures at Arizona State University, showcased their innovative solutions for real-world sustainability challenges at the capstone project presentation held at the Walton Center for Planetary Health this spring.

The event featured presentations from five project teams, each collaborating with industry business and community partners to develop sustainability solutions such as food waste reduction, decarbonization for carbon-intensive products, sustainability communication, green career opportunities and mitigating environmental impacts in event planning.

Among this year’s community partners was Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Hotel , represented by ASU alumnus Michael Ortiz. He graduated from the university in 2009 with dual bachelor’s degrees in sustainability and business management and now works as the hotel’s process improvement and sustainability manager. Ortiz spearheaded the collaboration with ASU students to address the hotel's food waste issue.

Studies show that the U.S. wastes 92 billion pounds of food annually, valued at over $473 billion. This equates to approximately 38% of America's total food supply.

According to a World Wildlife Fund report , customer-facing businesses like hotels, restaurants and supermarkets produce an estimated 40% of food waste. This makes hotel kitchens ideal settings for implementing food waste management strategies. 

The Fairmont Hotel has developed sustainability initiatives, such as reducing energy consumption, water conservation and sustainable sourcing, and it is seeking a sustainable solution for its food waste management operation. 

“The challenge with the food waste project was to identify cost-effective strategies to minimize waste without compromising guest satisfaction,” Ortiz said.

The project spanned two semesters, with College of Global Futures students from the ASU Online Master of Sustainability Leadership program  conducting research and return on investment analysis in fall 2023, followed by students from the Master of Sustainability Solutions program  refining strategies for the hotel’s food waste management practices in spring 2024.

“The ASU students conducted a comprehensive analysis of our food service operations, uncovering key areas where waste reduction could also yield financial savings,” Ortiz said. 

The team from the fall — which included Rebecca Auslander, Emily Magyar, Andrew Schuyler and Codie Sterner — highlighted opportunities in inventory management, portion control and composting initiatives that could enhance the Fairmont Hotel’s return on investment while contributing to their sustainability objectives.

“The Fairmont Scottsdale project allowed me to take the foundation I had built from the Master of Sustainability Leadership program and put the concepts to use,” Schuyler said. 

The Master of Sustainability Solutions team’s project in the fall of 2023 developed into a multifaceted food waste reduction program for the Fairmont hotel, which included staff training, guest awareness campaigns and partnerships with local food recovery organizations.

“The response from our executives was overwhelmingly positive,” Ortiz said.

“Already, we have seen a noticeable reduction in food waste, an increase in staff engagement with our sustainability goals, and positive feedback from guests who appreciate our commitment to the environment.” 

In spring 2024, the students of the Master of Sustainability Solutions team — which consisted of Zachary Albregts, Ani Hanesyan, Chassidy Manlapid, and Jaclyn Reynolds — worked on the second phase, incorporating innovative approaches to further enhance operational efficiency and reduce food waste. 

The team, led by Ortiz, visited the Fairmont Hotel site to learn more about the hotel’s food waste management operational chain. 

​​ After initial research and site visits, the Master of Sustainability Solutions team learned that food waste has environmental consequences and long-term socioeconomic impacts. Therefore, they developed a comprehensive and effective sustainability solution based on financial and social considerations. 

The student team found that there were areas of opportunity where food budgeting could be optimized. With high annual food costs, this finding highlights a major opportunity for financial savings and operational improvement. Meanwhile, from a social-impact standpoint, the excess food could otherwise be repurposed and/or donated to local charities.

By analyzing patterns in resource usage and guest behaviors, the team defined opportunities to improve operational efficiency and reduce food waste. 

“The commitment and creativity displayed by the students in pushing the boundaries of what we achieved last semester is truly commendable,” Ortiz said. 

The capstone experiences allowed both groups of students to apply their sustainability knowledge beyond the classroom by creating solutions with real-life impacts. 

“In academia, we learn about sustainability principles and are introduced to people who share our passion, which helps us expand how we perceive the world and tackle problems, which is extremely helpful,” Magyar said.

“But even the best ideas in the world won’t get implemented if we cannot convince enough people to engage with the solution.”

The project also prepared students for careers in the green workforce. 

“Since everyone on our team is considering a career path in corporate sustainability, this experience provided us with firsthand insight into how a company handles a complex sustainability problem,” Albregts said.

Ortiz shared that he was impressed with what both student teams accomplished for the capstone project, commending the tangible results it provided and the professionalism with which both teams conducted their work. 

“They have approached the project with a level of maturity, dedication and analytical rigor that one would expect from seasoned professionals,” Ortiz said.

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