Doctoral Candidates

A doctoral degree demonstrates a special effort to develop academic talents and strengthen skills in research and clinical practice. Doctoral candidates are encouraged to review the information below to ensure degree requirements are satisfied and to become familiar with the steps that will need to be taken to participate in Commencement. 

Applying for Graduation 

Doctoral students must submit a graduation application to the Graduation Office early in the semester that they intend to graduate.  

• In addition, all doctoral students must also complete the Commencement Program Form and submit to the Graduate Studies Office.  Please reference the Phonetic Pronunciation Guide  for instructions on how to submit the phonetic pronunciation of your name so that it is read properly during the ceremony.

Participating in Commencement 

In mid-March (for Spring Commencement) or mid-October (for Winter Commencement), doctoral students will receive an email from the Office of the Provost inviting them to register online to attend their academic college's Commencement ceremony.

Renting or Purchasing Regalia

All degree candidates participating in Commencement are required to wear the current official university regalia. Doctoral regalia must be rented or purchased through the University Store six weeks prior to the ceremony. All questions regarding rental or purchase of doctoral regalia should be directed to the UStore. 

• Use the Doctoral Regalia Rental form to rent your tam and gown.
• Use the Doctoral Regalia Purchase form to purchase your tam and gown.
• Doctoral hoods are awarded at the ceremony, there is no need to purchase a hood.