Overview
Master's degree candidates may register to participate in two ceremonies: their Graduate Hooding Ceremony and the Commencement Ceremony that occurs in the same academic year (September 1 through August 31).
For Master's degree candidates the Graduate Hooding Ceremony is the primary graduation event where they will cross the stage, hear their name read, have their hood placed over their head, and receive their diploma cover. (The actual diploma will be mailed to the address you provide on your Intent to Graduate.)
At Commencement master's degree recipients will process in their regalia (a cap, gown, and hood are required) and be seated on the floor of the Agganis Arena along with bachelor's degree candidates, faculty, and staff. During the ceremony master's degree recipients will be asked to stand and be recognized but they do not cross the stage or have their name read at Commencement. Nonetheless, the scale of the event is impactful, and master’s degree recipients who have attended have found it moving.
You must register to participate in each ceremony separately if you would like to attend, and only students who register to participate will receive guest tickets.
Location
Lineup (students report here)
Little Building
80 Boylston St.
Boston, MA 02116
Ceremony
Shubert Theatre
265 Tremont St.
Boston, MA 02116
Graduating students should report to the Little Building on Emerson’s campus. You must bring your Emerson ID to gain entry. Online students without an Emerson ID should bring a photo ID.
Schedule
Saturday, May 10, 2025
School of the Arts Graduate students arrive at 12:15 p.m.
Doors open to guests at 1:40 p.m. (Guests who arrive early will need to wait outside.)
School of the Arts Graduate Hooding Ceremony 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
