Before we discuss the differences between a capstone project and a thesis, we need to establish how these two graduate research experiences are similar.
Both reflect on the student’s academic training. Both involve research that deepens the scientific knowledge about the topic/issue being investigated. Both communicate the discoveries or insights. Both require a concerted effort and are conveyed in a written final paper and through an oral presentation on the findings. Both are reviewed by a panel of experts in the discipline. And, both must display three key elements described by Mauch and Park (2003): originality -“research has not been done before or in the same way”; individuality - “the study is conceived, conducted and reported primarily by the student”; and rigor – “characterized by strict accuracy and scrupulous honesty and insistence on precise distinctions among facts, implications, and suppositions”.
They differ in several regards, including but not limited to the points discussed below. Read the following distinctions as expressed by Dr. Anton Endress for graduate students in the NRES program.
How Project and Thesis Differ
“Purpose of work
- Thesis – extend or clarify foundational theories within a discipline
- Project – extend or clarify theories or engage research results toward management, education or useful societal application
Scope and magnitude of original research
- Thesis – original research including field data collected over multiple years or sites
- Project – original research or may use secondary information, shorter duration, but greater in depth than a standard graduate-level term paper
Goal
- Thesis – to prepare student for advanced study. Two articles in peer-reviewed research publications is typical outcome
- Project – prepare student for professional career (private organizations, consulting firms, public agencies dealing with natural resources and the environment.) Publication in conservation, restoration, or management-oriented publication is a frequent, but not required, outcome”
One of the major misconceptions that students have when they enter the Non-Thesis option is that if they don’t do a thesis, they won’t be eligible for a PhD program. Several of our NRES graduates have pursued their PhDs after completing their online Masters. What is most important is that your capstone project demonstrates a deep understanding and application of the three key objectives:
- Understanding and application of the scientific process,
- Skills in the analysis and interpretation of relevant scientific information, and
- Proficiency in communicating scientific information.
A well-planned and executed independent research project can position you for further academic pursuit.
As you make your selection (capstone research or thesis) the goal of the experience is an important determinant of which is the right choice for you. If you have additional questions or concerns, please contact your Academic Advisor for more information.
Mauch and Park. 2003. Guide to the Successful Thesis and Dissertation: A Handbook for Students and Faculty, 5th edition. Marcel-Dekker press. p 12.
Endress, A. 2011. Thesis versus Independent Research Project. Unpublished note to students in NRES 499: Alabama Field Study.
