1. Theoretical Alignment & ACOTE Areas 4 pts
Include your theoretical model/frame of reference, key constructs, and explicit connection to ACOTE Area(s) of Focus.
2. Literature Review, Environmental Scan & SWOT 4 pts
This section should synthesize (not summarize) literature, identify gaps and patterns, and connect findings to your capstone focus.
3. Needs Assessment: Methods, Results & Data Analysis 4 pts
Describe your methods, justify them, and interpret your data. Explain why the identified needs matter for this population and setting.
4. Capstone Goals, Outcomes & Student Learning Objectives 4 pts
Goals should be measurable, feasibly sequenced, and aligned with capstone outcomes. Include a timeline and evidence of achievement.
5. Capstone Deliverables 4 pts
Explicitly connect each deliverable to your needs assessment findings. Scope should reflect doctoral-level complexity and reasoning.
6. Evaluation & Sustainability Plan 4 pts
Include measurable evaluation tied to each deliverable and a realistic sustainability plan beyond the capstone duration.
7. Discussion, Limitations & Future Implications 4 pts
Demonstrate reflective analysis that integrates findings, literature, and implications for practice, research, or policy.
8. References 4 pts
Include your full reference list. Sources should be current, scholarly, and formatted in APA 7th edition.
9. Appendix 4 pts
Describe the appendix contents (instruments, timelines, data collection tools). Materials should directly support replication or implementation.