Signature Projects: What Are They?

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