Capstone Practicum Overview
The Capstone Practicum is a pivotal element of the graduate curriculum in the Department of Health Administration and Policy. It provides students with an opportunity to bridge academic knowledge and professional practice through hands-on experience.
Students from both the Master’s in Health Administration (MHA) and Master’s in Health Informatics (MSHI) programs participate in this course. For MHA students, the capstone practicum is a required component. MSHI students may choose between a capstone practicum or a thesis project to fulfill their degree requirements.
During the practicum, students work 20 hours per week (unpaid) as integral members of an organization, tackling real-world challenges through projects assigned by their host organizations.
Key Objectives:
- Develop leadership, management, and critical thinking skills through active participation in organizational activities.
- Gain practical knowledge in areas such as program development, opportunity analysis, and operational management in healthcare and public policy settings.
- Apply research, communication, and presentation skills to produce a professional deliverable for the host organization.
Collaborative Learning:
Students function as project consultants and regularly present their progress to their peers and instructors, fostering a collaborative learning environment. This collective approach ensures accountability and a high standard of quality for all projects.
The capstone practicum is a transformative experience, equipping students with the skills and confidence to address complex healthcare challenges and deliver valuable solutions to their host organizations.
Contact Us
For further information about the capstone practicum or our students, please contact hap@gmu.edu.