Thesis and Capstone Information
A thesis or capstone project is required to complete the M.S. in Oral Health Sciences program.
Thesis Information
A thesis is scholarly work that must be approved by two faculty members in the field of study. The project must be well-conceived, of modest scope and have an original conclusion. The thesis may be literature based (graded Pass/Fail) or research based (laboratory, clinical, survey, retrospective (eligible for a grade of A) or a combination of the two.
Research-based theses are quite variable and do not necessarily need to be traditional bench research projects. Many students do perform these types of projects and get valuable research experience however other types of projects are also available. These “other” thesis opportunities include but are not limited to (i) clinical research working with patients directly, (ii) retrospective studies of previously collected data including statistical work-up (iii) public health or oral health education related and (iv) the development of a survey eliciting information on topic of interest followed by data collection and analysis. If recommended by your primary thesis mentor, your research this may be eligible for an “A” grade.
- Thesis Information
- GMS General Thesis information
- Finding Information Framework of OHS – OHS-FIF
Capstone Information
The 15 page Capstone project is a culminating experience whereby students choose to research a topic that is relevant in the field of dentistry. This project is overseen by a faculty mentor, who has expertise in the topic chosen, either at the Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine or the Goldman School of Dental Medicine. The project is graded as Pass/Fail, and is designed for students completing the MS in 12 months.
- Information and Requirements (including capstone template)
- Capstone Proposal Form
General Information
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
If an AI tool is used, it must be used in a manner that supports learning and academic integrity. Students may not use AI software, tools, or add-ons to generate written content submitted for the capstone project. This includes, but is not limited to, literature summaries, synthesized text, interpretations, or conclusions. However, AI tools may be used for limited support functions such as brainstorming topic ideas, outlining, formatting, and organizing work. In addition, basic grammar and mechanics assistance (e.g. spelling, punctuation, and syntax checks) using tools such as Grammarly is permitted. Students are responsible for ensuring that all submitted work reflects their own original ideas, analysis, and writing.
AI USE DISCLOSURE STATEMENT
If any AI tool is used at any stage of the capstone process, students must complete and submit the AI Use Disclosure Statement form with their final submission. The statement must clearly describe the following:
- The specific AI tool(s) used
- The purpose for which the tool was used
- The extent of its involvement in the work
Failure to disclose the use of AI tools, or the use of AI beyond what is permitted and outlined above, may be considered a violation of the BU Academic Conduct Code.
Annotated Bibliography
An annotated bibliography is a structured list of research sources that serves to summarize, assess, and reflect on each source’s relevance to a specific research topic. The document must be written in MS Office and in 12 pt font (Arial, Aptos, Times New Roman, or Calibri). References must be in APA format, in alphabetical order, and single-spaced (with a single space between each). The full DOI URL (hyperlinked) must be included for all references that have an available DOI. Each reference must include 3-5 bullet points evaluating or highlighting key information from the source. Do not copy/paste from the source! Use your own words or paraphrase to avoid plagiarism. A draft of the annotated bibliography must be submitted to your assigned mentor for review and feedback by the designated deadline. A final mentor-approved annotated bibliography will be due with your final submission.