Graduating Students

Commencement Information

Our Commencement Ceremony for the Class of 2026 will be held on Saturday, May 2, with a hooding ceremony for doctoral graduates on Friday, May 1. The Graduating Student & Alumni Reception for all graduates will be held Friday evening as well, May 1.

Important: Deadline for graduation application is January 5, 2026.

Graduation is just around the corner...

The below information for students and visiting guests will help in navigating the graduation process and ceremonial celebrations.

Friday, May 1, 2026

Doctoral Hooding Ceremony

Our Doctoral candidates are invited to take part in a special Hooding Ceremony, followed by our reception that evening, as well as attend our Commencement Ceremony the next day.

Time: 4:00 - 5:30 p.m.
Location: On-campus, Graduation Tent

Note: Graduates arrive by 3 p.m. in auditorium, guests arrive by 3:45 p.m. under tent)

Graduate and Alumni Reception

All graduating students, alumni, and their guests are invited to attend our reception for a night of food, music, networking, and fun!

Time: 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Location: On-campus, McGowan Academic Center

Saturday, May 2, 2026

Commencement Ceremony

Time: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. (graduates arrive by 9 a.m., guests arrive by 9:30 a.m.)
Location: 11301 Springfield Rd, Laurel, MD 20708 | On-campus, Graduation Tent

Note: Graduates arrive by 9 a.m. in auditorium, guests arrive by 9:30 a.m. under tent)

Important: There is a limit of 4 guests for seating under the tent for both the Hooding and Commencement Ceremonies. Overflow seating is available outside the tent, or at our on-campus streaming locations, for any additional guests.

Visitor and Guest Information

The following resources will assist visitors and guests in attending the graduation ceremony and celebrating this special occasion.

Graduation Requirements for Students

For graduating students: Be sure to familiarize yourself with the graduation process, such as applying for graduation, completing degree requirements, settling financial obligations, and attending the Commencement Ceremony.