Graduation day guide
Graduation ceremonies are among the most formal and ceremonial of all University events. We give a quick rundown of the ceremony and guidelines on etiquette so you can get the most out of your big day.
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The ceremony
So what happens at the graduation ceremony? Here, we give a quick run down of the event.
The ceremony opens
Once registered, the graduands will enter the hall and make their way to their seats. The assembly (audience) will continue to be seated at this point.
Shortly afterwards, the Chancellor’s Procession enters the hall. The assembly should rise and remain standing until the Chancellor invites guests to be seated.
The Chancellor of the University will declare the ceremony open and deliver their opening address. This will be followed by an opening address from the Principal and Vice-Chancellor. The Chancellor will then proceed to the conferral of degrees and other awards, beginning with the conferral of honorary degrees.
The conferment of degrees
Graduands are presented to the Chancellor in the following order: Honorary Degrees, Higher Degrees, First Degrees, Diplomas and Certificates. Recipients are presented by their Head of Faculty.
As you cross the stage as a graduand, you will be met first by the Chancellor of the University, who will confer your degree by ‘capping’ you lightly on the head. On leaving the stage you will be presented with your award documentation.
The ceremony ends
The Chancellor declares the ceremony closed. The assembly is asked to rise when the music begins, and to remain standing while the Chancellor’s and Graduates’ Processions leave the hall.
The entire ceremony lasts around 90 minutes.