How does a hooding ceremony work?

Asked by: Mr. Favian Kemmer I  |  Last update: January 23, 2026
Score: 4.8/5 (24 votes)

Yes, a hooding ceremony does not replace commencement exercises, but rather, complements commencement with a more intimate celebration. Hooding candidates ceremoniously receive their regalia hood from a member of the faculty, symbolizing the achievement of an advanced degree.

What is the point of a hooding ceremony?

The hooding ceremony originated in European universities in the 11th or 12th century and was introduced as a way to distinguish graduating students as they began their academic careers.

What is the purpose of hooding?

It is considered to be an act of torture when its primary purpose is sensory deprivation during interrogation; it causes "disorientation, isolation, and dread." According to the International Committee of the Red Cross, hooding is used to prevent a person from seeing, to disorient them, to make them anxious, to ...

Who attends a hooding ceremony?

The event is presided over by the University President and the Dean of the Graduate School and all advanced degree candidates who have completed all of their degree requirements (Ph. D. and Final Master's) are welcome to attend.

What to wear at a hooding ceremony?

Students typically wear dress clothes with their cap and gown. We strongly recommend that students wear the cap and gown; it is not required but strongly recommended.

Everything You Need To Know About The Hooding Ceremony | Graduate Commencement Series

38 related questions found

What degree do you get hooded for?

Academic Hoods - Bachelors, Masters, Doctoral Graduation Hoods – Graduation Cap and Gown.

Can I wear jeans to a graduation ceremony as a guest?

It's a celebratory but serious occasion, and you want to show up appropriately attired. That generally means a more polished look elevated above ordinary streetwear, such as professional or at least business casual pieces – avoiding items like jeans, shorts and sneakers.

Are you hooded for a master's degree?

The hard work you have put into your advanced degree can now be shown off by wearing your master's hood over your graduation gown. Attending Commencement in person? Keep your hood draped over your forearm; once you go to accept your degree on stage, someone will place your hood on you!

What is a pinning and hooding ceremony?

A nursing pin from California State University, Sacramento. A pinning ceremony is a symbolic welcoming of newly graduated or soon-to-be graduated nurses into the nursing profession. It sometimes recognizes the completion of educational requirements that enable nurses to take their state licensing examinations.

Why do graduates have hoods?

Hoods seem to have served to cover the tonsured head until superseded for that purpose by the skull cap. Today, hoods are the most expressive component of the academic costume. They serve to communicate the owner's school, degree and field of study through their length and the colors of the lining and binding.

Can anyone hood you at graduation?

Yes. Typically, your faculty advisor or committee chair performs the hooding at commencement.

What is the purpose of hooded sweatshirt?

Hoodies are a versatile and essential wardrobe staple, offering a perfect blend of comfort, style, and functionality. Designed with a cozy hood, they provide warmth and protection from the elements, making them ideal for casual wear, workouts, or layering during cooler months.

What is a PhD graduation ceremony called?

The doctoral hooding ceremony is similar to a graduation in that faculty and students are dressed in academic attire. During the ceremony, the name of each graduate is called, and the graduate goes on stage with his or her faculty adviser(s). If the faculty adviser is not available, the dean will perform the hooding.

What is a hooding ceremony education?

A hooding ceremony is an intimate gathering of faculty and students in academic regalia to recognize the achievement of the highest academic accomplishment. During the ceremony, the student will be seated center stage while their name, dissertation/capstone title, and brief background of the student is read.

What is the purpose of the hooding ceremony?

The hooding ceremony is a unique recognition of the achievement of each student who has earned a doctorate or final master's degree. Each doctoral candidate is introduced individually during the ceremony. You will have your hood placed on you in front of the stage on the field.

Do nurses get hooded?

The doctoral hood is more than a ceremonial garment; it's a powerful emblem of achievement, expertise, and dedication to advancing nursing. For DNP graduates, it signifies their readiness to influence patient care, healthcare policy and the future of the profession.

What is the importance of hooding?

The placing of the hood signifies the passage from student to 'master. ' The hooding ceremony and recognition of students' accomplishments draw attention to the scholarly and personal achievements of the candidates for graduation who have completed their advanced degree requirements.

Do master's degrees have honor cords?

Yes, master's degree programs in the US do award Latin honors (cum laude, magna cum laude, summa cum laude) or equivalents of the same.

What should mom wear to college graduation?

Graduation guest outfits should be appropriate, but still stylish. You can go with a darker floral print, white dress, or even a jumpsuit. Make sure you choose something comfortable, yet stylish that will help you look and feel your best on the big day!

What not to wear to a graduation as a guest?

Typically, there isn't a dress code to follow when deciding what to wear to graduation as a guest. However, to show respect for the graduating class, I always try to wear something polished. I also ensure that it isn't too tight, too revealing, or too short.

What color to wear to graduation as a female?

Some of the most popular colors to wear on graduation day are white and black, but you can go for whatever hue you want (unless your school requires a certain color). Whatever you choose will meet the dress code and align with your personal style (we've got some cute purses to match the outfits, too).