Capstone design projects give businesses access to Iowa State University engineering students who can help solve technical challenges, explore new ideas, and support innovation efforts.
Capstone design is the culminating experience for engineering students and a required part of their degree program. Student teams apply their discipline-specific knowledge to real-world, industry-sponsored projects, working under faculty guidance to develop practical solutions.
Projects are typically completed over one or two semesters and may include design concepts, prototyping, analysis, or process improvements. Businesses define the problem, and student teams deliver results that can be further developed and implemented.
CIRAS helps you navigate the process, refine your project, and connect with the right programs to ensure your project is well-aligned and positioned for success.
Available Disciplines
Capstone projects are offered across multiple engineering disciplines. CIRAS helps connect your project with the department that best aligns with your technical needs.
We welcome individual and industry inquiries, including projects that match the focus areas below:
- Aerospace Engineering
- Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering
- Chemical and Biological Engineering
- Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering
- Electrical and Computer Engineering
- Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering
- Materials Science and Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
Submit a Project
If you have a project idea for the Capstone Design Program, CIRAS can help you get started and connect you with the appropriate department.
If you already know which engineering discipline aligns with your project, you can contact the departmental capstone coordinator directly. If not, CIRAS can help you determine the best fit and guide you through the process.