Hooding

Hooding refers to two related ideas: the act of wearing a hood as part of clothing, and a ceremonial practice in higher education in which a doctoral hood is presented to a graduate. The term thus covers both everyday garment usage and an established rite surrounding advanced degrees.

In clothing, a hood is a piece of fabric designed to cover the head and sometimes the shoulders. It is often attached to a coat, jacket, or sweater, or worn as a standalone item. Hoods provide warmth and protection from rain or wind and may be insulated or lined for extra warmth. Construction ranges from simple drawstring designs to elaborate head coverings on cloaks or religious robes. In modern wear, hooded garments such as sweatshirts and jackets are common, made from materials like cotton, fleece, or synthetic blends. Historically, hoods have appeared in many cultures and have carried varied symbolic meanings tied to climate, fashion, and social identity.

Academic hooding is a ceremonial component of many universities’ graduation traditions. The hood is a draped piece of fabric worn with a gown and, in some systems, a cap. The hood’s outer edge, usually velvet, indicates the field of study, while the lining displays the colors of the issuing institution. The hood’s length and shape reflect the degree level, with doctoral hoods generally being longer and more elaborate than master’s hoods. During a hooding ceremony, a faculty member—often a dean or advisor—places the hood over the recipient’s head and shoulders, symbolizing the conferral of the degree. The practice has medieval roots and remains a formal element of higher education ceremonies in many countries.