Understanding UMR Graduation and Capstone Requirements: An Exploratory Health-in-All-Policies Approach and Qualitative Pilot Study
Our Health in All Policies research team conducted a pilot study in an effort to qualitatively explore UMR student experiences with the policies related to graduation and Capstone requirements. Because graduation requirements ensure standard levels of quality education, they are a must for all students attending an accredited university. A semi-structured interview guide was developed collaboratively and used to interview UMR students who have or are currently taking Capstone Proposal Writing. Four interviews were recorded with participant consent and lasted between 25 and 36 minutes. Transcription was done using auto-transcription; however, manual edits were carefully made to maintain a verbatim format. Analysis of data involved categorizing data with pre-set and emergent codes, followed by thematic analysis. Findings suggest that pilot study participants enjoy the ability to personalize Capstone classes as it relates to their future career. Individualized support is also valued by students. These features seem to mediate stress that students tend to experience in this process. Future policy action should involve maintaining reasonable requirements in order to prioritize students’ mental health.