Commencement

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Commencement is a traditional and formal academic ceremony celebrating the scholarly accomplishments of all of our degree candidates. Academic degrees date from the second half of the twelfth century. The present ceremony recognizing scholarly achievement retains all the essential features of its ancient predecessors.

During Commencement, we honor degree candidates who have demonstrated an especially deep commitment to their field of study and achieved a record of excellence during their academic career at Towson University.

Overview of Ceremonies 

Commencement ceremonies occur at the end of the Spring and Fall semesters and degree candidates are invited to participate in the college ceremony in which their degree program falls.  May and December ceremonies are identical in formality, tone and experience. All ceremonies take place in the SECU Arena and each degree candidate is guaranteed a total of four tickets for guests.

Conferral of Degrees

Towson University awards academic degrees at the bachelor's, master and doctoral levels. The university also awards post-baccalureate certificates and certificates of advanced study. Degrees are symbolically conferred during Commencement, and candidates completing all degree requirements successfully receive their diplomas four to six weeks after the ceremony.

• The doctoral degree is the most advanced earned degree conferred by American institutions. There are two distinct types: the practitioner's degree and the research degree. 
• The master's degree is an academic honor bestowed upon candidates who have successfully completed work beyond the bachelor's degree. A thesis and an oral examination are usually required. 
• The bachelor's degree represents the completion of a four-year course of college-level study and is the oldest academic degree awarded by American institutions of higher learning. The Maryland State Normal School, which later became Towson University, awarded its first bachelor's degrees in 1866.

Emergencies

In the event of an emergency, please contact University Police (410) 704-4444 and/or 911. The following coordinates can be used when giving the location of SECU arena 39.38980 -76.61565 or 7500 Osler Blvd. Towson University will provide a first aid station inside the arena in case of emergency.

Inclement Weather

Should inclement weather occur, please check the local radio and TV stations for announcements regarding delays. You may also call TU at 410-704-2000 or 410-704-NEWS (6397), or check weather announcements via TU’s homepage. Please note that once a ceremony has started, it will not be canceled.