Structuring Technical Capstone Projects for Non-Profit and Low-Budget Community Organizations

Students in most technical programs work on original capstone projects that integrate and synthesize concepts and principles that are taught throughout the program.These capstone projects or practicums are usually the last course in the program.At our institution, School of Engineering and Computing (SOEC), National University, many technology-based capstone projects are undertaken every year, where students define, design and implement projects in the areas of Computer Science, Information Technology, Wireless Communications, and Cyber Security.Structuring and customizing some of these projects for non-profit or low-budget startup organizations will have significant positive impact in our local community and enhance the institution's vision of providing useful community service.This vision of providing quality community service is supported by the university leadership and practiced by faculty and staff.Designing and implementing these projects enables hands-on practical experience for our students, thus creating a win-win situation for both the community and the students.Most of these capstone projects are completed with minimal budget and within an intensive short duration of time: two to three months as