Capstone research projects serve as important experiences that allow undergraduate students to apply disciplinary knowledge, develop scientific skills, and engage in independent inquiry. The department of Entomology and Plant Pathology at Oklahoma State University requires undergraduate students to conduct a capstone research project. Students conduct research under the mentorship of a faculty member or graduate student, and their research project is not part of a required course. Entomology undergraduate students are required to take the course Research Skills in Entomology. In this course students learn a structured approach to guide them through the steps of designing and executing a successful capstone research project. The framework taught in this semester long course emphasizes skill development in research question formulation, literature review, scientific writing, and oral communication. To test the effectiveness of assignments and feedback mechanisms used in the course, surveys were given to students who had taken the course. Survey outcomes suggest enhanced student confidence, improved scientific literacy, and increased engagement in entomological research. By integrating research training into undergraduate curricula, students are better prepared for graduate studies, scientific careers, and informed participation in evidence-based decision-making. The strategies used in this course can serve as a blueprint for other science programs aiming to foster independent research competencies in undergraduate learners.
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