Any student who has completed the required course work and applied for graduation is eligible to participate in the commencement ceremony. Graduation application packets are available in the Student Services office in 107 Backes Center. It consists of a checklist, graduation application, graduate survey, and general education student survey. All items must be completed and submitted to the Student Services office by the deadlines listed above.

Graduating with Honors

Students must complete a minimum of 30 credits in order to be eligible for honors status. Cumulative grade point averages at the end of fall semester are used to determine honor status for students completing degrees at the end of spring semester or summer session. Cumulative grade point averages are used to determine honor status for students completing degrees at the end of fall semester.
Students graduating with honors will be given an honors medallion to be worn at the commencement ceremony when they pick up their cap, gown, and tassel.

Cap and Gowns

The attire for graduation will be the traditional royal blue cap and gown and blue and white tassel.  Graduates planning on attending the ceremony must pick up their cap, gown and tassel beginning May 1 in the ICC Bookstore.  Cost is approximately $25 for cap, gown and tassel.

Commencement Rehearsal

Because there is NOT a rehearsal for the commencement ceremony, it is important for students to respond in a timely manner to the RSVP request. Detailed instructions will be mailed to only those students who have indicated they will be attending the ceremony.  Also, the number of chairs set up for the graduates and the number of diploma packets prepared are based on this RSVP. Graduates will be asked to check-in 45 minutes before the ceremony to pick up their name cards.

Commencement Ceremony

The ceremony lasts approximately one hour followed by an outdoor reception for graduates and their guests with refreshments being served. Students will be asked to complete an RSVP before the end of April regarding their attendance at the ceremony and the number of guests they are planning.  Tickets are not required for guests.

Commencement Programs

The program distributed at the ceremony will list the names of all candidates for graduation (fall, spring, summer) who have applied for graduation regardless of whether they participate in commencement exercises.

Diplomas

It is not possible to process final grades and prepare degree lists in time to present diplomas on commencement day. You will receive a diploma cover with informational inserts at the ceremony.  Diplomas will be mailed to students after August 1 providing they have met all their degree requirements.

Questions?

Any questions concerning eligibility or the graduation application process may be directed to the Student Services Office in 107 Backes Center (218-322-2320).  Questions regarding the ceremony may be directed to the Student Services Assistant in 105 Backes Center (218-322-2302).