Step-by-Step Guide to Regis University Graduate Capstones: MAPC 693 & MSCR 696

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Step-by-Step Guide to Regis University Graduate Capstones: MAPC 693 & MSCR 696

The Regis University graduate capstones—MAPC 693 (Master of Arts in Professional Counseling) and MSCR 696 (Master of Science in Clinical Research)—are culminating projects designed to integrate advanced research, applied practice, and professional competencies. These capstones require students to take a problem or research question from identification through methodology, implementation, evaluation, and presentation.

This guide provides a step-by-step roadmap to successfully complete these graduate-level capstones.

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1. Step 1: Identify a Clear Problem or Research Question

The foundation of any successful capstone is a well-defined and actionable problem.

Characteristics of a Strong Problem

• Relevant to your field (counseling, clinical research, or related disciplines)

• Evidence-based and supported by preliminary research

• Feasible within the capstone timeline

• Allows for measurable or evaluable outcomes

Examples

• MAPC 693: Designing an intervention to reduce anxiety among college students

• MSCR 696: Conducting a study on patient adherence to medication protocols

• Evaluating the effectiveness of telehealth counseling sessions

• Developing a framework for clinical research data management

Tip: Consult your faculty advisor to ensure your problem aligns with program outcomes and capstone objectives.

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2. Step 2: Conduct a Literature Review

A thorough literature review establishes context, identifies gaps, and supports your methodology.

Steps

1. Search relevant databases (PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Scopus, Google Scholar)

2. Focus on peer-reviewed studies, clinical guidelines, or case studies

3. Organize findings by theme: intervention strategies, methodologies, or outcomes

4. Highlight gaps that your capstone will address

Tip: Use a literature matrix to summarize authors, study purpose, methodology, findings, and relevance.

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3. Step 3: Develop a Methodology

Methodology outlines how you will conduct your research or applied project.

Key Components

• Research Design: Qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods

• Population / Sample: Clients, patients, or study participants

• Data Collection: Surveys, interviews, assessments, or experimental data

• Analysis Plan: Statistical analysis, thematic coding, or evaluation metrics

• Tools and Software: SPSS, Excel, NVivo, REDCap, or other field-specific software

• Ethical Considerations: IRB approval, informed consent, and confidentiality

Tip: Align your methodology with the research question and program competencies.

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4. Step 4: Implementation

Implementation translates your plan into actionable outcomes.

Best Practices

• Follow a clear, step-by-step implementation schedule

• Monitor data collection or intervention fidelity

• Document all procedures, adjustments, and challenges

• Engage participants and stakeholders ethically and professionally

Tip: Maintain a project log or journal for transparency and evaluation purposes.

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5. Step 5: Evaluate Outcomes

Evaluation demonstrates whether your capstone achieved its objectives.

Evaluation Strategies

• Quantitative: Analyze pre- and post-intervention metrics, survey results, or experimental data

• Qualitative: Identify themes, patterns, or feedback from participants

• Compare outcomes to literature benchmarks or program standards

• Reflect on limitations and implications for practice or research

Tip: Use tables, graphs, and charts to clearly present your results.

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6. Step 6: Prepare the Capstone Report

A professional report documents the entire capstone process.

Suggested Structure

1. Title Page and Abstract

2. Introduction / Problem Statement

3. Literature Review / Background

4. Methodology / Project Design

5. Implementation / Execution

6. Results / Evaluation

7. Discussion / Lessons Learned

8. Conclusion / Recommendations

9. References (APA 7th edition)

10. Appendices (data collection instruments, charts, supplementary materials)

Tip: Maintain clarity, logical flow, and professional formatting throughout the report.

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7. Step 7: Deliver a Professional Presentation

The presentation demonstrates research, applied skills, and professional communication.

Presentation Tips

• Structure slides logically: Problem → Literature → Methodology → Implementation → Results → Discussion → Conclusion

• Include visuals: charts, graphs, tables, or screenshots of interventions

• Keep slides concise, visually appealing, and easy to follow

• Practice delivery, timing, and handling questions confidently

• Highlight the practical significance and program competencies demonstrated by your capstone

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8. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Selecting a project that is too broad or unrealistic

• Weak literature review with insufficient evidence

• Poorly documented implementation or data collection

• Ignoring ethical considerations or program guidelines

• Slides overloaded with text or unclear visuals

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Final Thoughts

Successfully completing Regis University MAPC 693 & MSCR 696 Capstones requires strategic planning, rigorous research, structured implementation, and professional presentation skills. Following this step-by-step guide ensures your capstone demonstrates advanced competencies, analytical thinking, and readiness for professional practice or research leadership.