To elaborate the difference between a capstone project and a thesis, which is a

capstone project addresses a specific problem, issue or concern in the field of study,
and a thesis attempts to create new knowledge. A capstone project focuses on a
narrow, specific topic, whereas a thesis addresses a broader, generalized issue.

Capstone Project: Coursework Application

A capstone project tests your understanding of core concepts in your field of study
and requires you to apply them to current situations. For example, a capstone
project might require you to produce a solution to a business or scientific problem.
Capstone projects don't require original research, but you must perform background
analysis, conduct library research, examine similar projects and review best
practices, according to the University of North Carolina. Capstone projects may be
completed individually or in small groups. Some undergraduate and graduate
programs require students to complete capstone projects to graduate. Consult your
adviser about specific capstone requirements.

Capstone Project: Select a Narrow Topic

Choose a narrow topic for a capstone project, for which you can provide expertise
and a comprehensive analysis. For example, your capstone project might address
how a lack of protein affects elementary students' classroom learning or why some
consumers are more likely to buy impulsively. In some cases, a capstone project
deals with a specific company that's trying to improve productivity or solve a
workplace concern. Most capstone projects require a written paper of approximately
15 to 25 pages, according to the University of Colorado. Your adviser may require
you to present your project in public and complete a self-reflective evaluation.
Thesis Paper: Create and Prove or Disprove a Hypothesis
A thesis paper differs from a capstone project because you must create new
knowledge by developing a hypothesis, conducting data analysis, assessing your
results, drawing conclusions from your research and comparing your results to
others. "A thesis paper feels more like the scientific method than a field project,"
according to the University of Wisconsin. You must work independently on a thesis
instead of doing group projects. Thesis papers are generally reserved for graduate
students.
Thesis Paper: Professional Considerations
A thesis paper is beneficial to students who plan to enter a Ph.D. Program or
conduct individual research related to their postgraduate studies or long-term
careers. It's more time-consuming than a capstone project and is worth more
academic credit hours. A thesis paper can be completed over several semesters,
but a capstone project is generally a single-semester requirement. Course
instructors and faculty advisers grade capstone projects, but a larger thesis
committee grades thesis papers.