Commencement Ceremony

Event Description

Duke holds one university-wide commencement ceremony to celebrate the three graduating classes of that academic year. September 2024, December 2024, and May 2025 graduates, from all ten Duke schools are invited to attend. Graduates will be required to request tickets for their guests.

On Wednesday, April 9, graduates will be able to use this link to request tickets.  These tickets will be digital and are for general admission seating.  To support venue staffing and emergency management planning, we ask that graduates request only the actual number of tickets that they need.

On Commencement Day, graduates will be required to present a student ID and must be dressed in academic apparel to enter the stadium.

The ceremony begins with the procession of degree candidates, faculty, administration, and platform party.  President Vincent E. Price presides over the ceremony and remarks are given by a selected student and a keynote speaker. Duke also awards honorary degrees during the ceremony to people who have exemplified the highest ideals and standards in their work. Honorary degree recipients are typically announced in March.

The commencement ceremony typically concludes by 11 AM, and many departments host gatherings and departmental ceremonies in the afternoon.

Explore previous commencement ceremonies.

Ceremonies Hosted by Schools and Departments

While degrees are officially conferred at the university-wide commencement ceremony, diplomas are distributed by departments and schools either by mail or at separate events throughout commencement weekend.  Students will receive detailed information about their event directly from their school.  A list of the  departmental ceremonies and other events may be found here.