Commencement

updated: 10/6/26

  Check this official Commencement page regularly for 2027 ceremony updates.

  69th Annual Commencement Ceremonies

  The 69th Annual Commencement Ceremonies will be held in May 2027 at Falcon Stadium.

🎓Ceremony 1:
        Friday, May 21st at 5pm

Divisions:
      • Business Education
      • Fine Arts & Communication
      • Health Occupations
      • Kinesiology   

🎓Ceremony 2: 
      Saturday, May 22nd at 10am

Divisions:
      • Humanities & Social Sciences,
      • Liberal Arts (including General Ed),
      • Science, Engineering & Mathematics, Technology

  Additional commencement information, including eligibility, regalia, and ceremony details,
will be posted as it becomes available.

Planning to Graduate in 2026–2027? 

Here is how to Submit Your Graduation Petition:

Graduation Petition Deadlines:

To participate in the 2027 Commencement Ceremony and to have your name included in the Commencement Program, your graduation petition must be submitted to Admissions by March 19, 2027.

  • Fall 2026 Graduation Petition Period: 8/10/26 - 10/30/26
  • Spring 2027 Graduation Petition Period:  1/04/27 - 3/19/27

  • Summer 2027 Graduation Petition Period: tbd

For instructions on how to submit your graduation petition and additional graduation information, visit the  Admissions Graduate Petition webpage.

 Please submit your petition by the applicable deadline to ensure timely degree evaluation and eligibility for commencement participation.

What is the difference between "Graduation" & "Commencement"

Graduation = Finishing your degree

You have completed all requirements and officially earn your diploma.

Commencement = The ceremony

This is the event where students celebrate their achievement (walk the stage, wear caps & gowns, etc.).

👉 In short: Graduation is the achievement & Commencement is the celebration