VB + Access = Drag and Drop UI + easy to learn database. Go Figure!!
How about a nice multiplayer strategy game? You know where the players can play on different VB clients talking to one single Access file. You have a separate server module (Java/VB your call) to do the processing of who is winning depending on their input.
Mix images + labels with VB and you have cool looking buttons instead of those boring grey buttons. If you do not want to develop your own pre-concept of a game .. check out something called warbook (its an application on facebook). Simple numbers game, yet addictive ... or you could try another simplistic version of Civilization ... thats also turn based game (not realtime).
Thought that a game for a project would be a cool idea
if you want to stick to the more conservative ideas, then suggest a hotel/library/hospital/HR management software. Functionalities you can find dime a dozen on the net
