M.Ed. Capstones - How to Apply

Candidates for advanced Education degrees must demonstrate their mastery of the subject matter and their ability to generate new knowledge or to apply existing knowledge to specific practical situations. This demonstration may take the form of a research project or thesis, planned with and directed by a faculty supervisor.

  • A project involves curriculum or program development and applies theory to practice. A project creates a product that is often used in a professional capacity by the student.
  • A thesis is a traditional research capstone where a candidate for an advanced degree gathers data, analyzes that data, and presents the results along with their interpretations. A thesis uses data analysis to answer a research question or test a hypothesis of interest to the student.

NOTE: The asterisk (*) next to ED* 693 and ED* 695 indicates that students must register for the Education course specific to their academic program. Candidates who are unsure which capstone course/section to select should consult with their program advisor prior to submitting their application.

Prerequisites

To qualify to enroll in either ED* 693 - Master's Project or ED* 695 - Master's Thesis you must meet the following prerequisites:

Application Deadlines

  • Applications to enroll in Fall Semester must be received by May 15
  • Applications to enroll in Winter Semester must be received by September 15
  • Applications to enroll in Spring/Summer Semester must be received by February 15

Online Application Process

  1. Submit your application via the Practicum/Capstone Online Application System.
  2. Immediately upon submission, you will receive confirmation of your application's receipt via your GVSU student e-mail account.
  3. If all course prerequisites have been fulfilled, you will receive an email in 6 to 8 weeks after the deadline with registration instructions. Please watch your student email account for this important information.

If you have questions regarding the application process, please contact Education Programs through the Office of Certification and Accreditation.




Page last modified June 26, 2023