Ceremony Eligibility

Completing the work required to earn an academic degree is separate from the public commencement ceremony that symbolically commemorates that achievement.

Towson University students who are eligible to participate in a Commencement ceremony are considered "candidates" for graduation, and must have met all degree requirements in a current or prior term in order to participate in the ceremony.

Participation in Commencement

The university’s practice is for degree candidates to participate in the ceremony immediately following the completion of all degree requirements. Students who have applied for and been approved for graduation by the Graduation Office will automatically receive an email invitation to participate in Commencement. 

is attending commencement required?

While the university community enjoys celebrating graduates' accomplishments during Commencement, participating in the ceremony is not required.

when can I walk?

• Students completing their degree requirements in Minimester or the Spring semester are eligible to participate in a May Commencement ceremony.
• Students completing their degree requirements in Summer or the Fall semester are eligible to participate in a December Commencement ceremony.
• Candidates may postpone their participation Commencement beyond the stated timelines above by contacting commencement AT_TOWSON.

planning ahead 

Your Ceremony Experience

Both winter and spring Commencement ceremonies are held in SECU arena and are identical in format, formality, and celebratory spirit. Ceremony dates are published approximately five months before the ceremonies.

All students are encouraged to comfirm their eligibility to participate in a ceremony before inviting guests to attend and making travel arrangements.

Fulfilling Degree Requirements

Below are some helpful tips and resources to use when applying for graduation:

• Students should monitor all course requirements to ensure that everything is in order and that they will be cleared for graduation. Refer major questions to your academic adviser.
• The Graduation Office’s FAQ contains important information on applying for graduation, the graduation review process, and degree and diploma information.
• Check the Graduation Office’s Applying to Graduate for application deadlines and instructions on how to apply.
• You may monitor the progress of your degree by regularly checking your “Academic Requirements” report located in the Student Dashboard in PeopleSoft. It is also strongly recommended that you meet with your assigned major adviser or an adviser in the Advising Center to ensure degree requirements are being fulfilled.