Signature projects are extended activities completed outside of the classroom to complement your academic studies. These capstone learning opportunities normally are particular to one student, but projects involving a small team sometimes can be undertaken.
Signature projects traditionally extend through at least a semester or summer. Therefore, a short trip to gather data or present research or creative work would qualify if the research or creative process took place over the course of a semester or summer. To be considered academically complementary, the signature project should be relevant to the student’s major.
EXAMPLES OF SIGNATURE PROJECTS
- Independent research projects
- Internships or other practical experiences, such as summer research experiences
- Discipline-specific student-teacher experiences
- Creative endeavors or performances
- Focused service learning projects
LEARNING GOALS OF SIGNATURE PROJECTS
- To put classroom theory and information into practice through research, creative work, or participation in a relevant real-world activity
- To develop topical knowledge and skills beyond what is taught in regular courses
- To allow students to observe from professionals in a chosen field of study