Demonstrate Your Financial Mastery
The Capstone Project is your opportunity to demonstrate everything you've learned throughout the financial literacy program. You'll create a comprehensive financial plan that integrates concepts from all 10 units, showcasing your ability to make informed financial decisions and plan for your future.
This project is designed to be realistic, practical, and personally meaningful. You'll be making real financial decisions based on hypothetical scenarios that mirror real-world situations you'll encounter in your life.
By completing this capstone project, you'll:
Your capstone project consists of four major components, each building upon the knowledge from specific units:
Based on: Units 1, 2, 3, 5, 6
Based on: Unit 2
Based on: Units 7, 10
Based on: Units 4, 8, 9
We recommend following this timeline to complete your capstone project successfully:
Review all course materials, choose your scenario, gather necessary information, and create your project outline.
Complete Part 1: Calculate net worth, create budget, develop savings and investment strategy.
Complete Parts 2 & 3: Research careers, develop business idea, create financial projections.
Complete Part 4: Assess insurance needs, plan for taxes. Review and refine all components.
Create presentation materials, practice delivery, prepare for Q&A.
Present your project to a panel, submit final documentation, celebrate completion!
Choose ONE scenario to base your capstone project on:
You're 18 years old, just graduated high school, deciding between college and entering the workforce. Plan your financial future for the next 10 years.
You're 25, working your first real job earning $45,000/year, with $30,000 in student loans. Plan for financial independence over the next 15 years.
You're 22 with a business idea and $10,000 in savings. Plan to launch your business while maintaining financial stability.
You're 30, earning $55,000/year, considering a career change requiring additional education. Balance current obligations with future goals.
Create your own scenario with instructor approval. Must include realistic financial constraints and goals.
| Component | Points | Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Part 1: Personal Financial Plan | 30 points | Comprehensive, realistic, well-researched, proper calculations |
| Part 2: Career Planning | 20 points | Thorough research, realistic projections, clear development path |
| Part 3: Business Proposal | 20 points | Viable idea, accurate financials, market analysis, community focus |
| Part 4: Risk Management | 15 points | Appropriate coverage, tax awareness, comprehensive safety net |
| Presentation | 10 points | Clear, confident, professional, engages audience |
| Creativity & Effort | 5 points | Original thinking, attention to detail, professional quality |
| Total: 100 points | ||
Use these resources to complete your capstone project:
Complete all 10 units before beginning your capstone project. Once ready, download the templates and get started on your financial masterpiece!