Capstone Project is a final, practice-oriented project mainly used in MBA (Master of Business Administration) programs. It serves to demonstrate a listener’s ability to apply the knowledge and skills acquired during the program to solving real business or organizational problems. The project is usually based on a real company’s operations, a market challenge, a strategic development plan, a financial model, or the design of managerial decisions.

The main purpose of the Capstone Project is to assess the listener’s strategic thinking, decision-making ability, analytical approach and practical leadership competencies. The project is typically submitted and defended in the form of a presentation. It does not require scientific novelty; instead, the emphasis is placed on practical outcomes and well-justified solutions.

A Dissertation is a final research-oriented work characteristic mainly of MS (Master of Science) programs. A dissertation reflects research conducted on a relevant scientific problem within the chosen field and includes theoretical analysis, research methodology, data analysis and well-grounded conclusions.

The primary objective of a dissertation is to assess the listener’s level of scientific thinking, research skills, depth of theoretical knowledge and ability to draw scholarly conclusions. The work is carried out in cooperation with a scientific supervisor and is defended before a state attestation (examination) committee.

Key Differences Between a Capstone Project and a Dissertation

A Capstone Project is practice-oriented and focuses on finding solutions to real business problems, whereas a dissertation is research-oriented and based on theoretical and methodological investigation. Scientific novelty is not mandatory for a Capstone Project, while academic rigor and scientific justification are essential for a dissertation. A Capstone Project evaluates managerial and leadership competencies, whereas a dissertation assesses scientific and analytical capacity.

Why in Global Practice Is a Capstone Project Required in MBA Programs and a Dissertation in MS Programs?

The main reason lies in the difference in objectives and focus of these programs. An MBA program is designed to prepare executives, managers and entrepreneurs, with a strong emphasis on practical management, strategic decision-making and business performance. Therefore, the Capstone Project is the preferred final assessment in MBA programs.

An MS program, on the other hand, is aimed at deep specialization and academic training, where research competencies are developed through the completion of a dissertation.

Conclusion

In short, a Capstone Project is a management project focused on practical outcomes, while a dissertation is an academic work based on scientific research. Both are important and necessary within their respective programs and are chosen in line with the listener’s professional orientation and future career path.