The big day has finally arrived! After years of tireless work, it’s time to savor every second of this incredible celebration. We’ve got you covered with our top tips to ensure your graduation day runs smoothly, so you can focus on basking in the glory of your hard-earned achievement. 

Attend the Correct Ceremony

Double-check the details for the ceremony corresponding to your degree type and make sure you’re at the right place at the right time. You wouldn’t want to miss your moment on stage! 

• Master’s Students: Line-up at Hutchison Field South by 9:00 a.m. in your academic regalia. 
• MFA and Doctoral Students: Line-up at Hutchison Field South by 2:00 p.m. in your academic regalia. Don’t forget to bring your hood to the Commencement ceremony! 

Plan Ahead for Parking

Find out where you’re going to park beforehand. Plan your route to the venue and allow plenty of time to get there. Commencement is a popular event, so roads may be busier than usual.

Parking is complimentary with registration for all graduates and Commencement guests in designated lots. For instructions on how to register for complimentary parking watch this video or follow the instructions posted on the Commencement website. The coupon voucher code for Graduate Studies ceremonies has been distributed directly to all registered students only. If you have questions, contact the Commencement Coordinator.

Directions

Need mobility assistance? 

Parking and Transportation will offer complimentary Mobility Assistance Shuttle service between the Pavilion Parking Structure and the Southeast entrance of the University Credit Union Center preceding and following each ceremony. Those who wish to utilize this service should park in the Pavilion Parking Structure, and proceed to the shuttle stop located just outside the structure’s west entrance, on the North Dairy Road bike path. Visit the TAPS Commencement website for details. 

Information for Guests 

All guests will require tickets to attend the ceremony. Seating for guests is on the upper levels of the University Credit Union Center, through the Southeast Concourse and the Southwest Concourse. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests should make note to attend the correct ceremony and plan to arrive early to be sure they have time to park and find their seats. Please note, only graduates are permitted in the line-up area. Guests are not allowed on the arena floor at any time, even after the ceremony ends. 

Ceremony Details

Please expect graduates to remain through the full ceremony, and guests should plan to remain in their seats as well as a show of respect for the accomplishments of all the graduates attending. 

• Master’s Ceremony: Doors open at 9:00 a.m., the graduation ceremony starts at 10:00 a.m. 
• MFA and Doctoral Ceremony: Doors open at 2:00 p.m., the graduation ceremony starts at 3:00 p.m. 

Visit the Commencement Information for Guests and the Frequently Asked Questions page for additional information. 

Photos and Video

Professional photographers will be at the ceremony to capture the moment you receive your diploma. Your free digital proof will be e-mailed within 5-7 days following commencement.

Family members and friends should take photographs of candidates either before or after commencement. Photos taken by family or friends will be permitted from their seats or from the designated photo areas in the stands above the arena floor. Tripods are NOT allowed into the University Credit Union Center. 

Remember that It’s a Shared Moment

Please commit to staying the entire ceremony, even if it runs longer than expected, out of respect for the accomplishments of the remaining graduates. Every graduate deserves their moment of public recognition.

Regalia Returns for Students

Gowns may be returned after the ceremonies at the Herff Jones on-site location at Hutchison Field. For more information, visit the Cap and Gown Rentals website.  

Stay Connected: Join the Alumni Network

You’re not just graduating – you’re becoming a lifelong member of our esteemed graduate alumni community! Join the Graduate Alumni Network to connect with fellow grads, tap into exclusive resources and stay updated on the latest university news. It’s the perfect way to keep the connection alive. 

Congratulations class of 2024! 

We can’t wait to honor your achievements and celebrate the amazing things still to come. Here’s to you! 

Get more information about the Spring 2024 Commencement. If you have questions, contact the Commencement Coordinator.