All students are required to complete a Capstone Project (PAD 6908) during their final semester. All core courses and the methodology sequence must be completed before enrolling, though students may still have elective requirements remaining. A grade of B- or better is required.
The Capstone is built around a consulting model in which student teams work directly with a public-sector or nonprofit organization to address a real-world policy or management challenge. This is not a classroom simulation but a consulting experience. Teams analyze a policy or program problem requested by a sponsor such as a state agency, local government, or nonprofit organization, integrating theory and practice in a major study of a public organization, program, or policy issue. The Askew School works with a wide range of entities to identify potential project topics.
The Capstone course is offered only in fall and spring semesters, so students should sequence their coursework accordingly. Students planning to graduate in the summer should take the Capstone in the preceding spring semester. Because the project requires a significant time commitment, students are strongly encouraged to enroll in no more than one additional course during the Capstone semester.
Students do not register themselves for the Capstone. The MPA Directors first verify that all prerequisites have been met, and the Askew School’s Academic Program Specialists then complete the registration. Students who intend to enroll must respond to the School’s Capstone intent survey by the stated deadline.