Capstone is the culmination of students’ learning experience at the iSchool. For their Capstone projects, Informatics, MLIS, and MSIM students work independently or with sponsors to identify real-world information problems. Then, they develop the approaches and methods needed to address these problems, conduct the research, and finally present their findings in both oral and written formats. Students collaborate with faculty researchers or diverse sponsor organizations from the public, private, and non-profit sectors. While students are encouraged to work in teams of their choosing, individual projects are also welcome.

Students identify projects and potential sponsors during the Autumn quarter (September-December). Work on Capstone projects then begins during winter quarter (January-March) and is completed during spring quarter (March-June).

The final piece is the Capstone Gala event at the end of May. Students present their projects to an audience of faculty, friends, family, colleagues, industry partners and sponsors, as well as a panel of judges who evaluate the projects for a number of awards. The Capstone Gala is the iSchool's most popular and prestigious event of the year. Read our recap of the 2022 event. 

We invite iAffiliates and community partners to work with our students to tackle a complex information challenge in their organization. By partnering on a Capstone project, you can advance your innovation goals while supporting student success and getting a chance to evaluate future talent. Learn how to partner with iSchool students on a Capstone project.

Information for students presenting at Capstone.

Questions: Email iCapstone@uw.edu.