Commencement

Countdown to Commencement (C2C) helps you prepare for graduation. This one-stop shop gives you the opportunity to verify your graduation details and connect with essential campus offices before Commencement.

Fall 2026 C2C took place October 20 and 21. Thank you to everyone who attended!

Couldn’t attend in person? A recording of the event is available on the Countdown to Commencement website.

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 Graduates

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 graduates who RSVP, so don’t miss this important step in preparing for your big day!

RSVP Here

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 Herff Jones 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.

Gowns for Grads provides donated and sponsored graduation regalia to students in need. Recent graduates are encouraged to donate their regalia so fellow Herd members can share in the celebration.

 

To donate or request regalia, visit the World Boutique in East Hall, Old Main 106B, or email polk4@marshall.edu or commencement@marshall.edu .

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.

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.

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.

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

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 no less than one month after commencement

Diplomas are mailed to your permanent address 6–8 weeks after commencement; international deliveries outside the US can be ordered through eShipGlobal. Diplomas not claimed within six months will require a paid replacement order. Diploma covers are available for pickup at the Registrar’s Office for students who did not receive one at commencement.<

Each graduate will also receive a digital diploma to their Marshall University email about 4-6 weeks after commencement, with notification from Parchment

Learn what happens to your Marshall email, Microsoft 365, and other services after you graduate, and how to save your files or transfer access before your student accounts close here.

Graduates can purchase class rings and announcements, please contact the MU Bookstore for more information.

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