SPD Commencement Convocation FAQs

What is the difference between graduation and commencement?

People often use these terms interchangeably, but they are different. You graduate from the University and earn your diploma. It is an indication that you have successfully completed your course of study. You can choose to participate in a commencement ceremony and celebrate your achievements.

Do I have to let the University know when I'm taking my last class?

YES. You have to file for graduation via SOLAR, preferably at the beginning of your last term. This triggers an audit so we can check and make sure you have met all of your requirements. While you can file for graduation later, please notes that there are deadlines associated with filing that may affect your ability to participate in commencement activities.

What if my last class is in the Summer?

If you are taking your last class in the Summer and want to participate in Spring commencement activities, do not apply to graduate until you have registered for your Summer courses.

What is the difference between the SPD and University ceremonies?

The University ceremony includes all graduates from every school in the University. It skews heavily toward the undergraduate population. It is a big production that involves thousands of people and usually has hig profile speakers. It is held in the football stadium (outside – rain or shine). Graduates get a limited number of tickets for their guests and they will not have their name called out on stage.

SPD's celebration is a smaller, more intimate ceremony for graduates of all of the School's programs. Each graduate will have their name announced as they walk across the stage. This year, the event will be in the Staller Center Main Stage, which will have ample seating for guests. We will post an RSVP form here as soon as it is available.

If you have questions about the University's Commencement, please visit their website.

If I already indicated on SOLAR that I plan to participate in my departmental ceremony, do I need to RSVP through SPD's ticket portal?

Yes. We need to know how many people are coming and if there are any special needs. A link will be posted on the SPD Commencement Convocation page in mid-March.

Do I have to wear a cap and gown?

Yes. No matter which ceremony you choose to attend (the University or SPD ceremony), you must have regalia.

Are there COVID-19 requirements for entry?

The University's COVID-19 guidelines align with the CDC requirements and state mandates. For details, visit the University's Commencement website's FAQ page.

I (or one of my guests) need a disability-related accommodation, how do I ensure that this need is met?

Let us know by indicating your need on our RSVP form.

Where is the Staller Center? Where should I park?

The Staller Center for the Arts is located between the Melville Library and the Wang Center, and is across the street from the Student Union (Directions). The closest and most accessible parking is in the Administration Parking Garage but there is also a paid lot behind the Student Union and next to the Chemistry Building. Visit the Parking website

Can my guests take photos?

Of course, but it will be hard from them to get close to the stage. There will be a professional photographer there as well taking pictures of each graduate.

Will this event be streamed live?

We streamed our last ceremony on SPD's YouTube Channel and are checking to see if this is feasible for 2024. We will update this page when we have the confirmation.