Skip to main content
Industry & alumni

Capstone project proposal

Industry Capstone project proposals are accepted from June through September. College of Engineering faculty can advise on project ideas and scope upon request.

Guidelines for project proposals Mentor Code of Conduct

What makes a good project proposal?

  • Scoped for a small team of students, with design and performance criteria requiring appropriate analytical study on a topic directly relevant to engineering
  • Contains both a design and results phase, culminating in a specific project outcome
  • Reflects lower-priority real-world problems faced by your organization; mission-critical problems are not appropriate projects
  • Appropriate for entry-level engineers in their first or second year on the job
  • Primarily self-contained, but also integrates within a larger context

We strongly encourage projects that are open to all UW Engineering students, regardless of citizenship.

Partner with us

Start your project proposal

Mentor Code of Conduct

We are honored to partner with industry capstone mentors who advance our mission by guiding students through real-world projects and serving as role models of professional conduct. This Code of Conduct outlines principles for maintaining a safe, respectful, and professional environment.

Professional conduct

  • Strive to maintain an atmosphere of mutual respect and trust in all communications and dialogue with students and staff.
  • Be mindful that your position carries certain privileges and influence; exercise these fairly, wisely, and respectfully. Avoid placing unreasonable or inappropriate demands on students.
  • Create an environment free from harassment, discrimination or violence based on race, color, ethnicity, religion, national origin, disability, medical condition, marital status, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, veteran status, socioeconomic status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Prohibited actions

  • Do not use alcohol or drugs in any student-related setting.
  • Do not engage in romantic relationships with students on the team or project you mentor, advise, or supervise.
  • Do not request financial contributions, sensitive personal data (such as Social Security numbers or bank account information), or any form of fiscal investment from students.
  • Do not release student personal information to any other person or organization without prior written consent.

Mentorship best practices

  • Communicate clearly and respectfully about project and timeline expectations; offer constructive feedback focused on learning.
  • Ensure students have access to opportunities while being protected from harm during the project experience.

Ethical and legal standards

  • Follow public health and safety mandates in all environments.
  • Report suspected violations of standards, policies, laws, or regulations promptly to the Director of the Industry Capstone Program. Raising concerns does not jeopardize your relationship with UW.

Resources