FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

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

Graduate students should arrive no later than 1:00 p.m. on May 23, and undergraduate students should arrive no later than 9:00 am on May 24. Both groups should report to the main quadrangle dressed in Commencement regalia and line up in the areas designated by College.

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 1:45 p.m. on May 23 for the graduate ceremony and no later than 9:30 a.m. on May 24 for the undergraduate ceremony as the Commencement will begin on time. Please plan extra time for local traffic and parking. The ceremony will conclude by 4:00 p.m. on 23th and 12:30 on the 24th.

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 23th and 24th 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 7:00 p.m. on May 24. 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.

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 2009 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.

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 orRegistrar@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.

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.

Where and when can students get their caps and gowns?

Caps & Gowns will be distributed to degree candidates on April 29th and April 30th in the textbook department of the Campus Store from 8:30am-6:30pm both days. Students must have applied for graduation and be free from service indicators and financial holds. Please bring your student ID with you and make sure you keep your 2 rain tickets in a safe place, as these cannot be replaced.

For more information, please visit the Store's website www.umassd.edu/campusstore or email Jann Stahl at JStahl@umassd.edu.

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 his/her family/friends) should contact Bill Kehoe, Department of Public Safety, in advance of Commencement: 508.999.8977 or via email

Who will be the Commencement speaker?

The undergardaute commencement speaker will be Sara J. Bloomfield, and the graduate commencement speaker will be Grattan Gill.

Who will receive honorary degrees?

The honorary degree recipients are Sara J. Bloomfield, William N. Whelan, and Grattan Gill.

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

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

Is there a listing of local hotels and restaurants?

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

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.