The Evans School degree project integrates knowledge and skills gained at the Evans School into a capstone project. The degree project can serve as an opportunity to further develop a student’s specialization, to expand networks in the community, and to create a significant sample of work. All projects include a written report; however, the length, format, and content of the projects vary tremendously depending on the type and scope of the work. Through the degree project, students demonstrate their ability to apply the skills from their coursework to a real-world problem in a in a fully synthesized manner.
A degree project requires that the student articulate a clear question for investigation and to select appropriate methodologies. These methods demonstrate the synthesis of the range of skills students have gained at the Evans School, across management, policy analysis, economics, quantitative methods, values, and substantive course work.
Many degree projects focus on client-generated real-world questions. If the student identifies such a topic on their own from an internship or employer, they may investigate it as an independent study but are advised to complete the project through one a degree project seminar. If a student wishes to work on a client-based project that is identified and managed by the school as part of the Public Service Clinics, they must complete their degree project through a degree project seminar.
Students choose one of three options to select a topic to pursue for their degree project. It is recommended to get a preliminary topic statement and faculty approval by the end of October, and work to refine the project plan by the end of November.
Public Service Clinics
A list of degree project topics based on agency-identified needs is available through the Public Service Clinics.
You can view degree project options, tips for developing a strong degree project proposal and access forms and submission guidelines.
Current students can also view an archive of past degree projects and submit completed degree projects online.
For more information, contact the Evans School Student Services office at evansdss@u.washington.edu or 206.543.4900.