Frequently Asked Questions About Graduation
Do I have to sign up for Graduation?
Yes, students first go to their advisor who will complete a Graduation audit for the student. If approved, the advisor will register the student for Graduation.
Is there a charge for Graduation?
Yes, the cost of Graduation is $20, payable at the Cashier’s Office. This is a non -refundable fee that pays for the cost of processing a student for Graduation. If you do not graduate in the term that you have registered to graduate in, you must sign up in the next term and pay the Graduation fee again.
What is the difference between Graduation and Commencement?
The Commencement Ceremony is held once a year and is a public Ceremony of the conferring of degrees. No one “graduates” at Commencement. Graduation occurs at the end of each semester after all the requirements for the degree or certificate have been affirmed by the Registrar’s Office. This process usually takes 3-4 weeks after the beginning of the next semester.
Is there a charge for the Commencement Ceremony?
No, there is no charge for the Ceremony.
How do I sign up for Commencement?
During the session with your academic advisor you may fill out the portion of the Graduation Application Form that notifies the College of your intention to walk in the Ceremony. Taking part in Commencement does not guarantee Graduation. (See question 3.)
When will I get my diploma or certificate?
Diplomas and certificates are mailed out 6-8 weeks after the beginning of the next semester. Please be sure that your address is updated and correct. Changes can be made by filling out the Change of Student Data Form available in the Registrar’s Office or in Advising.
When will my transcript reflect my degree status?
During the 3-4 week period after the beginning of the next semester as Graduation processing is taking place, Graduation notations will be added to the student’s transcript. Students can check their status by reviewing their on-line transcript.
What are “honors” and how is that determined?
Graduates receive honors recognition based on their cumulative GPA at the end of the preceding semester, since all grades will not have been processed prior to the ceremony. The Associate honors designations are as follows: Honors: 3.50 - 3.99 cumulative GPA, High Honors: 4.0 cumulative GPA; Bachelors: Cum Laude 3.5 - 3.69, cumulative GPA, Magna Cum Laude 3.7 - 3.89, cumulative GPA, Summa Cum Laude 3.9 and above, cumulative GPA.
Honors cords for those who qualify will be available in the Bookstore and can be picked up with your cap and gown.
Frequently Asked Questions About Commencement
Do I have to sign up for Commencement if I wish to participate in the Ceremony?
Yes, students first go to their advisor who will complete a Graduation audit for the student. If you are eligible to graduate in the Fall or Spring semesters prior to the Ceremony or the Summer semester immediately following the Ceremony, you are eligible to walk in the Commencement Ceremony.
How do I get my name in the Commencement Program book?
All Fall graduates will have their names placed in the program. Potential Spring and Summer graduates have until March 12 to see their advisor and fill out the Graduation Application Form.
Is there a charge for Commencement?
No, there is no charge for Commencement, however you will need to pay for your cap and gown. Caps and gowns are available at all campus bookstores.
What is the difference between Graduation and Commencement?
The Commencement Ceremony is held once a year and is a public Ceremony of the conferring of degrees. No one “graduates” at Commencement. Graduation occurs at the end of each semester after all the requirements for the degree or certificate have been affirmed by the Registrar’s Office. This process usually takes 3-4 weeks after the beginning of the next semester.
What are “honors” and how is that determined?
Graduates receive honors recognition based on their cumulative GPA at the end of the preceding semester, since all grades will not have been processed prior to the ceremony. The Associate honors designations are as follows: Honors: 3.50 - 3.99 cumulative GPA, High Honors: 4.0 cumulative GPA; Bachelors: Cum Laude 3.5 - 3.69, cumulative GPA, Magna Cum Laude 3.7 - 3.89, cumulative GPA, Summa Cum Laude 3.9 and above, cumulative GPA.
Honors cords for those who qualify will be available in the Bookstore and can be picked up with your cap and gown.
Where can I buy Commencement announcement cards?
A variety of Commencement announcements are available for purchase through
the Bookstore.
