Frequently asked questions

• What will the virtual commencement ceremonies look like?

  The virtual ceremony will include messages from the president, provost and senior vice president for academic affairs, Board of Governors, and deans from the schools and colleges. To help celebrate your academic achievement on social media, there will be exclusive frames and GIFs available, as well as e-cards for family and friends to send to their graduates.

• Do I need to purchase a cap and gown?

  Regalia is not necessary to participate in the celebrations. You may purchase a cap and gown if you choose to do so. Please purchase regalia online through Oak Hall.

• What about doctoral regalia?

  You may place your order for doctoral regalia online through Oak Hall.

• Will Ph.D./Ed.D. graduates have an opportunity to participate in a hooding ceremony in the future?

  When we are able to have an in-person commencement ceremony, Ph.D./Ed.D. graduates will be invited to attend. You may also send an email to commencement@wayne.edu to express your interest in participating.

• What are the plans for the postponed in-person ceremony for students who would like to attend?

  The university is currently developing plans for interested students to participate in an in-person ceremony at a later date. Although we do not have specific information to share at this time, we will share details on the commencement website as they become available. Once plans are finalized, all graduates from the Class of 2020 will be invited to attend.

• What is the difference between graduation and commencement?

  Graduation is completing your degree requirements and earning your diploma; commencement is the celebration of graduation. Attending commencement is not required to celebrate.

• Will I receive my degree even though there will not be an in-person ceremony?

  Yes. Once degrees have been certified, usually within four to six weeks following the end of the semester, your diploma will be mailed.

• Who do I contact if I have questions regarding my degree application or my diploma?

  You may email graduation@wayne.edu.

• How can I purchase my graduation frame and other alumni gear?

  The WSU Bookstore has diploma frames and alumni gear available for purchase. You may purchase a Class of 2020 T-shirt for $10.

• How can I order announcements and class rings?

  Please visit Herff Jones, the official university vendor for announcements and rings.

• Will there be special T-shirts with the names of the graduates on the back?

  Yes, you may order a special T-shirt listing all the names of the spring/summer and fall graduates. All orders must be placed by Dec. 27, 2020.

• What if I have a question that is not addressed here?

  Please email your question to commencement@wayne.edu.