Capstone Information
The Capstone Experience is an important and pivotal part of undergraduate education at the University of Maine. The university guidelines state that the aim is “to draw together the various threads of the undergraduate program that bear directly upon the academic major in an experience that typifies the work of professionals within the discipline”. Students generally complete their Capstone project at the end of their senior year. Requirements for completing the Capstone as necessary to qualify for graduation are different depending on your academic program, so students should consult their academic advisors to get more information. Majors and programs usually disclose more specific information about Capstone requirements on their websites.
When to Complete the Capstone
Because the Capstone requires significant preparation, planning, and work, it is recommended that students figure out what they want to do for the project by fall of their junior year. Though most students complete the Capstone during their senior year, depending on the nature of your project or individual schedule, it may be more effective to complete some or all of the project over the summer between your junior and senior years. It is also possible to complete the Capstone earlier than senior year depending on the student’s circumstances. For guidance specific to your area of study, major, and academic situation, please reach out to your advisor or academic department.
Types of Capstone Project
There are many ways to complete your Capstone project. Students can design and implement an original experiment or research project, base their project on research they are participating in as a student assistant, volunteer, or employee so long as there is appropriate guidance and approval, or base it upon the compilation and analysis of existing research. Depending on your major and program, a research trip, course, or experience through your department may be applicable as part of your Capstone. Students should contact their advisor or academic department to learn about opportunities for their major. Students who are members of the Honors College may be able to use their thesis project in place of a Capstone. There are different requirements for the Capstone and Thesis projects, so it’s important to coordinate with your academic and thesis advisors to make sure that all requirements are being met.