Capstone courses are designed to help the student evaluate what he has learned over the years of being in college and performing studies in a particular area. The course will touch on all of the main topics that have been taught, not only to refresh the student but also to evaluate whether the student is ready to pursue this particular career choice. Usually during the class, it will be expected of the student to write a full report evaluating himself, but also what he has learned and if he is mentally prepared for what he may face in his career choice.
An internship may be required of the student as part of her capstone course. Depending on what type of field the student is looking to pursue, she may have to attend a working facility related to her field of study, for a specific number of hours in order to receive credits needed for the course. When doing an internship, it is usually up to the student to find a place of business that is willing to let the student perform her internship and receive hours and training needed.
In a variety of capstone courses, it is required of the student to volunteer a designated number of hours to tutor underclassmen pursuing the same field of study as the graduate student. This, of course, is to not only help other students that are struggling, but to also help the professor analyze just how much information the student has really retained in the chosen field of study. If the student is able to relay and teach the needed information, then it shows that he has full knowledge and a clear understanding of the topic.
Capstone courses also offer training activities that help to educate students on how to successfully create a working resume, seek out employment, and develop professional interviewing skills. Students are taught to look at all of the different aspects of knowledge they have gained and be able to portray that to a future employer.