As part of your academic journey at the Online Bible Institute Network, students enrolled in the Master of Arts program will be required to submit a 2,000-word Capstone Project Proposal. This proposal outlines a real-world ministry tool or resource designed to reflect and apply what you’ve learned. If you’re continuing into the Master of Divinity program, the next step is to fully develop and submit the completed Capstone Project itself.
What Is a Capstone Project?
A Capstone Project is the culminating assignment of your program—a demonstration of both your academic growth and practical ministry vision. It’s more than a paper; it’s a ministry initiative designed to serve others and advance the Kingdom of God. Think of it as your final creative and strategic offering, integrating theology, leadership, and ministry application.
Potential project ideas include:
- A ministry-focused website or blog
- A discipleship app
- A curriculum package for teaching
- A vibrant online community centered around prayer, study, or outreach
Projects should be practical and usable—something others can engage with to deepen their faith and walk with God.
Developing Your Capstone Concept
The Capstone process begins with a clear concept. You’ll need to:
- Identify your ministry challenge or opportunity
- Conduct preliminary research and gather sources
- Outline a methodology for how you’ll design and deliver your resource
From there, you will craft a formal Capstone Project Proposal that communicates your idea, timeline, and objectives to your faculty mentor.
The Capstone Proposal: Structure and Essentials
Your proposal should be approximately 2,000 words and include the following elements:
1. Title
Craft a title that is brief yet descriptive. Consider starting with a question and turning your answer into the project title.
2. Abstract (150–200 words)
A brief overview of your project, including why it matters and what you hope to accomplish.
3. Project Description
Clearly describe the ministry tool or resource you plan to create, the format it will take (website, course, media, etc.), and the rationale behind it.
4. Methodology & Project Design
Outline your approach—whether it’s research-based, community-focused, or creative production—and explain your reasoning. Include your intended impact on individuals or churches.
5. Timeline
Create a schedule of deliverables, including when you plan to meet with your mentor and milestones throughout the process.
6. Description of the Final Product
Share what the finished project will look like and how you expect it to be used. Address how it will benefit its intended audience and how you’ll measure its effectiveness.
Tips for a Strong Proposal
- Be concise and clear – Make your vision easy to grasp.
- Stay organized – Use headings, lists, or tables where helpful.
- Be practical – Propose something achievable and relevant.
- Be passionate – Let your heart for ministry shine through your writing.
Bringing It All Together
Your Capstone Project is a unique opportunity to synthesize everything you’ve studied and to create something meaningful for real-world impact. Whether it’s a digital tool, a new curriculum, or an outreach resource, your work should reflect thoughtful theological insight and Spirit-led creativity.
Once your proposal is approved, you will either conclude your MA program or begin developing the full project as part of your M.Div. requirements. Either way, you are shaping something valuable for the Kingdom.
