Since we launched our first Specializations in 2014, we’ve worked with our partners to integrate practical, hands-on projects into every Specialization curriculum. Today, we’re excited to announce a few changes that will make those hands-on experiences more impactful and accessible for all learners, which you’ll start to see incorporated in the new group of Specializations that we’re launching this Fall.
Traditionally, each Specialization on Coursera has been comprised of several courses culminating in a final Capstone Project. Although this format works well for some content, our learners and partners have let us know that it often makes more sense to include hands-on project-based work in every course, not just at the end of the Specialization.
Going forward, we’ll be giving instructors the option to integrate project-based learning at various points in a Specialization. In some of our newer Specializations, you’ll notice that the final Capstone Project has been replaced by several smaller projects in each course. Other instructors may opt to keep a final culminating project. Of those, some may allow learners to start on a project at any time, while others may save project work for the very end.
You can find more information about the projects included in each Specialization on Specialization description pages. We know that hands-on projects are often the best part of a Specialization, and we’re excited to introduce these changes to make them even more engaging and effective! If you have any questions about Specializations and projects, you can learn more in our Learner Help Center.