Capstone ProjectsPage address: http://www.mnsu.edu/cmst/programs/gradcapstone.html
There are three different kinds of capstone projects student complete in our department. Only students in a masters program need worry about completing a capstone project - certificate students do not have this requirement in their programs.
What are the different types of capstone projects?
Programs that involve a thesis capstone: MA, MFA
A thesis project is a primary research project in which a student formulates a research question, crafts a literature review, collects data, analyzes the data, and discusses the conclusions and implications presented by the project.
Alternate Plan Paper (APP)
Programs that involve an Alternate Plan Paper capstone: MA
An Alternate Plan Paper is a secondary research project in which a student formulates a research question, crafts a literature review, identifies the trends and findings relevant to a specific topic, and then discusses the application of that knowledge to a particular context or group of people.
Programs that involve an Internship capstone: MS
An Internship paper is an experiential project in which a student formulates a research question, crafts a literature review, and then immerses themself in an internship experience. After the internship, the student writes a critical/analytical report documenting how the existing literature applies to their internship experiences.
What kind of capstone project is associated with a certificate program?
None - a capstone project is not requried for either of the certificate programs.