Commencement

Countdown to Commencement (C2C) is an event designed to help graduating students prepare for their big day. It provides a one-stop opportunity to verify graduation details, connect with essential campus offices, and ensure everything is in place for a smooth transition to commencement and beyond. Click to find out more!

C2C for Summer and Fall 2025 graduates will take place on October 21st and 22nd, 2025. For more info, visit the C2C website.

After commencement, final grades are submitted and each college provides a list of students requesting graduation. Each student then undergoes a full audit to confirm all requirements are met before the degree is awarded. This process takes about one month, and degrees must be officially awarded before they can be verified or used for employment, licensure, or admission to graduate programs.

In short, degrees are officially awarded about one month after commencement.

Graduates must RSVP to secure their seat at Commencement and ensure they are included in this special celebration. By confirming your attendance, you help us plan for a seamless ceremony, making sure there is enough space for all participants and that the event runs smoothly. Seating is reserved for those who RSVP, so don’t miss this important step in preparing for your big day.

RSVP coming soon.

Graduates should review all commencement guidelines, including arrival time, check-in, regalia requirements, and seating. Following these instructions ensures a smooth ceremony and a memorable celebration. Be prepared for your big day!

Instructions for Winter 2025 coming soon.

Hooding Ceremonies are separate from the main Commencement and are hosted by individual academic units. These events provide a more personal recognition for master’s, doctoral, and professional-level candidates, with faculty and peers joining in the celebration of this important milestone. For more information about these ceremonies, click here.

Parking is available in the Third Avenue garage across from the Marshall Health Network Arena, free on weekends, or in the Pullman Square garages for a minimal fee. All garages are within walking distance.

Please allow extra time for security procedures. Graduates and guests will undergo metal detector screening, visual, and bag inspections. Only clear bags up to 12″ x 12″ x 6″ are allowed. For more details, visit the arena’s website.

The Commencement Ceremony can be viewed via livestream at www.marshall.edu/livestream, allowing family and friends to experience the event remotely while preserving lasting memories.

Graduates are also encouraged to connect with the Marshall University Alumni Association at www.formarshallu.org to receive invitations to future events and campus updates.

Undergraduate and graduate regalia are available at the Bookstore in the Memorial Student Center (304-696-3622 | Marshall Bookstore).

Doctoral regalia can be ordered through Jostens or the MU Bookstore.

Academic regalia is required. While no additional dress code is enforced, graduates are encouraged to wear business casual attire and comfortable shoes, as they will be standing for extended periods.

Diplomas will be mailed to your permanent address 6–8 weeks after commencement. International deliveries (outside North America) will be processed through eShipGlobal. Graduates must notify the Registrar’s Office within six months if their diploma isn’t received; after that, a replacement must be ordered. Diploma covers are available for pickup only at the Registrar’s Office.

Each Marshall student will also receive a digital diploma via their Marshall University email about one month after graduation, with notification from Parchment.

GradImages, a professional graduation photography group, will email graduates proof details a few days after the ceremony. Please note that purchasing photographs is entirely optional.

Additionally, university photographers will capture candid moments during the ceremony, and these photos will be available at muphotos.marshall.edu

Graduates can purchase class rings and announcements from Jostens. Rings can be customized to celebrate your achievements, and announcements provide a stylish way to share your milestone with friends and family.

View photos and video from previous Commencement events.

You can view past Marshall University Commencement Programs.

For questions not covered with the above information, please reach out to commencement@marshall.edu