Commencement

Commencement is a ceremony that marks either the beginning of a course of study or, more commonly, the completion of a degree or program. In higher education, commencement most often refers to the graduation ceremony at which degrees or diplomas are conferred and graduates receive official recognition of their achievements. The term derives from the notion of beginning, reflecting the transition from student to alumnus or alumna, as well as the official start of a new phase.

Usage and terminology vary by region. In the United States, commencement is widely used to denote the graduation ceremony, though the word graduation is also common. In other countries, terms such as graduation ceremony or award ceremony are more typical. Some institutions use convocation for a formal academic assembly, and many schools schedule separate ceremonies for different colleges, degree levels, or honors.

Typical elements include a processional, welcome and opening remarks, a keynote address, student or faculty speeches, conferral of degrees, and the hooding or tassel ceremonies for certain degrees. Graduates usually wear caps and gowns, and the turning of the tassel is a customary signal of degree completion.

Commencement serves to acknowledge achievement, mark a transition to alumni status, and celebrate with family and friends. Planning is often extensive, with dates set well in advance; ceremonies may be in person, livestreamed, or hybrid, and some institutions grant honorary degrees as part of the program.