FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a Commencement Telephone Hotline people can call to get Commencement information?

Yes, the Commencement Hot Line number is 508-910-6971. This will answer a large number of the questions listed here for anyone who does not have internet access.

What is the difference between "Commencement" and "Graduation"?

"Graduation" signifies that a candidate has satisfied all of the necessary criteria of their chosen program and that their respective academic department has certified their degree. "Commencement" is the ceremony that recognizes the degree seeking candidates.

How will I know if I have met all of the necessary requirements to graduate?

Students should meet with their respective Department Chairperson to ensure that they have met their degree requirements.

What do I need to do to declare my intention to graduate?

You can apply for graduation by visiting the following url: https://secure.umassd.edu/weblogin/?s=secure.umassd.edu&p=/graduation. If you have any questions pertaining to the application or survey, or need special accommodations please contact the Registrar's Office at 508-999-8615 or Registrar@umassd.edu.

How and when will students learn if they are eligible to participate in the graduation ceremony?

After the Registrar's Office approves the online application, an email will be sent to the students notifying them that they can participate in the Commencement ceremony.

What time should students arrive on Commencement Day and where should they go?

Student should arrive no later than 9:00am on May 27 and report to the main quadrangle dressed in Commencement regalia and line up in the areas designated by College.

Is there a limit to the number of friends and family a student can invite to Commencement?

No, there is no limit - the more the merrier, so long as they all give you presents! If it rains, the two tickets you will receive along with your cap and gown will allow two of your family/friends to join you inside the building where your College will be, but the rest will be able to view the ceremony from other pre-designated buildings on campus that are wired to show the ceremony.

What time should family and friends arrive and how long does the Commencement ceremony last?

Family and friends should plan to arrive no later than 9:30am as the Commencement officially begins at 10:30am sharp. Please plan extra time for local traffic and parking. The University ceremony will conclude by 11:30am and the College exercises will conclude by 1:00pm.

What happens in the event of rain?

We expect nice weather and to hold the Commencement ceremony in the amphitheater but in the case of heavy rain, we will announce by 6:00 am on May 27 via the UMassD website and if you call the 508-999-8000 number the alternate locations for each College. This will also be advertised on the University's entrance marquee. The bottom of the tickets the students receive (see commencement ticket question) will identify the rain locations. In this event, students will be allowed to bring two guests (with tickets) to these sites. Other guests will be able to view the ceremony from a variety of campus sites listed on the rain plan information page.

What time do residential students need to check out of their residence halls?

All students must be properly checked out of their residence hall no later than 5:00pm on May 27. Housing will be offered to all seniors currently living in a residence hall, seniors who purchase a Senior Week ticket, and non-seniors who sign up by May 15 to work as Commencement staff.

Where and when can students get their caps and gowns?

From April 25 through 9:00am on Commencement Day (May 27), students may go to the Campus Store to pick up their cap and gown.

Where and when can students get Commencement tickets?

From April 25 through 9:00am on Commencement Day (May 27), students may go to the Campus Store to pick up their Commencement tickets.. As stated earlier, students can invited as many guests as they would like. The tickets will only be needed if it rains heavily and the Commencement is moved indoors. The rain locations are listed on the tickets. Lost tickets cannot be replaced, so please hold onto them and secure them well!

Will there be special parking and seating for individuals with disabilities or health concerns?

Yes, students who know of anyone with a disability or health concern planning to attend Commencement (the student or their family/friends) should plan to confer with Barbara Agee, the Director of Health Services, no later than May 6, 2007.

Who will be the Commencement speaker?

Senator John F. Kerry will be the commencement speaker.

Who will receive honorary degrees?

Teresa Heinz Kerry, Edmund Barry Gaither, Robert P. Lawrence, and Julie Moir Messervy will join commencement speaker Senator John F. Kerry as honorary degree recipients.

Can I participate in the graduation ceremony if I am short a few credits?

Undergraduate degree candidates who have 9 or fewer credits to complete may participate in the May 2007 Commencement. If a student needs more than 9 credits, s/he must have permission from the dean of their College and plan to complete the coursework during the summer and fall.

Can family and friends see the Commencement if they are unable to travel to campus?

Yes - at http://www.umassd.edu/commencement/webcast.cfm

Can a student or family member purchase a video of Commencement?

Yes. Videos can be ordered in advance and after commencement on our video information page.

Is there a listing of local hotels and restaurants?

Yes - at http://www.umassd.edu/southcoast/tourism .