Graduation Ceremony Frequently Asked Questions

See Graduation requirements for all certificate and diploma programs.

Yes, there is a graduation ceremony held once a year, typically in mid-June.

Students awarded a professional certificate or professional diploma will be invited to participate in the June graduation ceremony. Invitations are sent out by the middle of May.

Yes, you will be able to bring three guests free of charge. You must RSVP for yourself and tell us the number of guests you are bringing. The link to RSVP will be sent with your invitation. Tickets are not issued.

This is a family occasion so children are welcome to attend, however we do not recommend bringing young children under the age of six. The formal part of the ceremony and speeches will be about 90 minutes. Children will be expected to remain seated during the ceremony and have adult supervision. Out of respect for other guests we request that children are taken outside if they become distressed during the ceremony so as not to disturb the proceedings. Childcare is not provided.

If children require a seat, you will need to include them in your numbers as guests when you RSVP. You do not need to RSVP for infants and children under two-years-old if they will be seated on an adult's lap.

Seating is first come, first served. We do not reserve seating for guests. Graduates will sit in the area for graduates. Guests will be seated in the bleachers above graduates.

Graduates must check in before 5:30 pm in order to arrange their place in the procession. Guests should arrive for the ceremony between 5:45 and 6:00 pm. The formal part of the evening is approximately two hours long and will start at 6:15 pm.

All graduates will need to check in at the registration desk.

Graduates and guests will not be seated together.

The ceremony will begin with speeches and presentations of special awards followed by the graduates crossing the stage. Graduates will remain seated until it is time for the procession. When the graduate reaches the podium, the graduate's name will be read. It is important that you have your name card visible when you reach the podium.

Once your name is read, you will cross the stage and be congratulated by the platform party and then return to your seat. Out of courtesy for your fellow graduates, everyone is asked to remain seated until all graduates have crossed the stage.

There will be a reception with hot and cold beverages for graduates and guests after the formal part of the ceremony.

We do not have caps and gowns for the Continuing Education graduation ceremony. There isn't a dress code, however most graduates tend to dress in business attire to semi-formal. Graduates will be standing in the procession for up to 30 minutes or more, therefore you might want to consider your footwear.

Yes, there will be a photographer taking pictures of each graduate crossing the stage. Guests will not have access to the front stage area.

The ceremony will be held at the Jack Simpson Gymnasium.

The easiest way to access the Jack Simpson Gymnasium is to approach the University from the north side via 32 Ave NW, turning south onto Collegiate Blvd. From there, turn right to park in Lot 10, or turn left to park in Lot 11 (both have daily flat parking rates). Walk from the parking lot toward the giant red sculpture. It is a short walk to enter the building via the Olympic Oval north entrance.

We will have staff at the location to direct graduates and guests.

Parking is available on campus for a fee.

We recommend that you park in Lot 10 or Lot 11. Both lots have daily flat parking rates.

Handicap parking is available.

If you are a graduate or guest with special needs and require assistance, please contact us.

Please please contact us.