SEAS Master's Projects are interdisciplinary capstone experiences that enable SEAS master's students to develop solutions to pressing problems faced by real-world clients. Students work on research teams with client organizations and faculty advisors to address complex environmental issues and design innovative, impactful products. This hands-on experience enables students to develop transferable skills that will help them secure future jobs and internships. Project ideas are developed by faculty, students, and organizations.
Students
SEAS students are required to enroll in the default Master's Project Planning Course (EAS 701.888) for a traditional master's project or the Theme-based projects course section announced (after an application and acceptance step in the first fall semester) and must submit a project report at the end of the experience. The Master's Project Handbook provides detailed information about project structure, planning, and completion requirements. The two offered paths (Traditional project teams and Theme-based project teams) are covered HERE.
Understanding the Thesis and Capstone Process (recording)
Clients
Projects provide students the opportunity to analyze and propose solutions to real-world environmental problems. Teams of ~5 students develop the project scope based on a proposed idea from the sponsoring organization, referred to as the client. The team works with the client until project completion (1.5 year process).
- Overview (**Please use the deadline date information at bottom of this website page, not the attachment, as current)
- Guidance for new clients (academic objectives, financial obligations, IRB)
- FAQs
- See Past Project Examples
Example and Enduring Past Clients:
Submitting a Master's Project Proposal
For master’s project questions and inquiries on how to submit or develop your idea, contact: [email protected].
Download the 2026 Proposal Submission Form. This proposal is due: Monday, September 28, 2026
Proposals are submitted by email to [email protected]. Before submitting the final proposal you must complete a short Intent to Submit form (this Intent survey form is due September 11th). Contact the email above to receive the link to this form. No more than two proposals are eligible per submitter.
Please note: A SEAS faculty advisor should be secured for a proposal to advance. You may reach out to SEAS faculty with the proposal topic you are drafting to gauge their availability to eventually advise students on the project. Please check back for updates or email additional questions after reviewing materials and FAQ/Handbook links above.
SEAS Student Center / 1520 Dana / [email protected]