Every MALS (but not MINI-MALS) student is required to complete a Capstone as the final project in the program. Capstones are written under the supervision of a faculty Advisor and in consultation with our Writing Mentor. In most cases, the Capstone project will be an interdisciplinary study of approximately 25-35 pages in length that demonstrates graduate level research and writing skills. It is also possible to complete a creative, artistic, or other non-traditional Capstone project, though they must be accompanied by a 10-15-page discussion of the conception, context, and meaning of the project.
Steps for Completing a Capstone Project
TWO SEMESTERS BEFORE GRADUATION:
Step 1: Enroll in the Capstone Tutorial
The Capstone Tutorial is a 0-credit online course that guides you through the process of preparing your capstone. It includes discussion forums where you can discuss any issues that arise in research and writing your capstone with other MALS students and with the MALS Writing Mentor. To enroll in the Capstone Tutorial simply send an email request to the Writing Mentor or Director at least two semesters before you plan to graduate.
Step 2: Choose a topic and a faculty Advisor
Think about a general topic or question you would like to explore arising out of your interests and coursework. Then choose an Advisor you would like to work with, if needed with the help of the Director. The Advisor should be an expert in some facet of your topic, perhaps someone you’ve already taken a MALS course with or perhaps another faculty member elsewhere at Rutgers.
Step 3: Complete a Capstone Proposal
Complete the Capstone Proposal Form. This form involves a 300-400-word description of the topic or question you plan to explore, plus an annotated list of at least five good sources that you plan to use. The form is signed by your faculty Advisor and the program Director and generates a Special Permission Number that you need to then register for the 3-credit course Capstone Research.
Deadline for Capstone Proposal Form:
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- May graduates: November 15 (of previous year)
- October graduates: April 15
- January graduates: July 15
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FINAL SEMESTER BEFORE GRADUATION:
Step 4: Write a first draft of your Capstone
During your final semester in the program, take the 3-credit Capstone Research course with your faculty Advisor. In this course, you write your Capstone, starting with first draft. Ideally, you will have completed substantial research into your project prior to this final semester. You can also seek writing assistance from the Writing Mentor. It is your responsibility to meet regularly with your Advisor and make sure you are receiving the guidance you need.
Step 5: Complete a final draft of your Capstone
A capstone project will usually require several drafts in response to your faculty Advisor’s suggestions. Make sure to leave yourself plenty of time to undertake needed revisions. It is important that you give your faculty Advisor sufficient time to read and comment on a final draft of your Capstone prior to the end of your graduating semester.
Deadline for submitting final draft of Capstone to faculty Advisor:
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- May graduates: May 1
- October graduates: September 1
- January graduates: January 2
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Step 6: Submit a final copy of your capstone to the Rutgers Library
Once your Advisor has approved your final capstone and all corrections and revisions are complete, the final step is to upload your finished capstone paper to the Rutgers Library. Instructions about the proper style for your finished capstone and other graduation matters may be found on the Graduate School’s page of graduation instructions.