Commencement

Wichita State University confers degrees at the close of fall (December), spring (May), and summer (July) semesters. Commencement ceremonies are held only in December and May.

Participation is allowed as follows:

^* Exceptions can be made if doctoral students have successfully defended their dissertation, and the defense paperwork is on file in the Graduate School before the spring ceremony.

Master's and specialist degree candidates

Master's and specialist degree candidates for spring ceremonies are eligible to participate in the May ceremony. Master's and specialist degree candidates for the fall semester are eligible to participate in the December ceremony. Master's and specialist degree candidates for the summer semester are eligible to participate in either the preceding May or the following December ceremony.

Doctoral degree candidates

Doctoral degree candidates are eligible to participate in the commencement ceremony held in the semester when they complete their degree requirements (May or December). All degree requirements must be completed in order to participate in commencement. Doctoral candidates who complete their program during the summer semester are eligible to participate in the December or May ceremony following the completion of their degree requirements.

Exceptions

Doctoral students must be hooded and their degrees awarded in the ceremony following degree completion. Therefore, summer doctoral candidates participate in the following fall ceremony, rather than the preceding spring ceremony. Exceptions can be made if doctoral students have successfully defended their dissertation and the defense paperwork is on file in the Graduate School before the spring ceremony. Contact the degree Audit Specialist at 316-978-3095 or email wsugradschool@wichita.edu for details.

Participating in a different ceremony

Master's and specialist students who need to participate in a different ceremony than they usually would (for instance, a spring graduate who wishes to walk in December) need to email the Commencement Office for permission to participate outside of their prescribed ceremony. Doctoral students who have completed requirements and wish to walk in a later ceremony (not earlier) may also make this request.

Email your request, which must include your full name, degree title, your myWSU ID, as well as the explanation for your request. The Commencement staff will respond to your request as quickly as possible.

Transcripts and diplomas

Official transcripts and diplomas are available from the Registrar's Office.

Diplomas distribution dates are listed below. They can be picked up at the transcript window on the first floor in Jardine Hall on the Main Campus. If the distribution dates fall on a weekend or holiday, diplomas will be available the next business day. You must show identification to pick up your diploma and cover.

Fall diplomas:  Available starting February 15
Spring diplomas:  Available starting July 15
Summer diplomas:  Available starting September 8

Additional information

For more information about commencement, please visit the commencement website.