Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science

Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science Commencement & Academic Regalia Overview

Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science holds its annual commencement ceremony at a designated venue (most recently scheduled at the Credit Union 1 Arena in Chicago) to confer degrees for graduates from its various colleges and professional programs. The ceremony adheres to a formal academic‑dress code.

Graduates are required to wear the official RFU regalia: a mortarboard or tam cap (depending on degree), a maroon gown with black accents, and an academic hood appropriate for those earning master’s or doctoral degrees. The gown and hood are supplied by the approved vendor and must be worn as issued. Tassels start on the right side of the cap/tam and are moved to the left when the degree is conferred.

RFU uses a **color‑coded hood and tassel system** to denote the college or program of the graduate: - Kelly Green for MD (Doctor of Medicine) - Apricot for DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) - Olive Green for PharmD (Doctor of Pharmacy)- Royal Blue for PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) - Peacock for DPT (Doctor of Physical Therapy) - Nile Green for DPM (Doctor of Podiatric Medicine) - Gold for Master of Science (MS) or Doctor of Science (DSc) degrees.

RFU allows honor cords, stoles, or medallions only if they comply with the university’s published honor‑cord/stole/medallion policy. Personal decorations, flowers, leis, or other adornments are prohibited unless prior written approval is granted by the Commencement Committee.

In summary: Rosalind Franklin University’s commencement ceremony is guided by a formal academic‑regalia system. Graduates wear a maroon gown with black accents, appropriate cap or tam, a hood for advanced degrees, and a tassel whose color matches the graduate’s program. Program‑specific hood/tassel colors reflect the discipline (medicine, pharmacy, nursing, etc.). Honor cords or stoles may be worn if approved and only by graduates belonging to sanctioned honor societies or organizations. The strict regalia and procession rules uphold tradition, consistency, and institutional identity while clearly marking field of study through color‑coded hood and tassel sets.

• Maroon graduation gown with black accents, cap or tam, and program‑color hood & tassel — standard RFU commencement attire.
• Correct tassel/hood color by program: Kelly Green (MD), Olive Green (PharmD), Apricot (DNP), Royal Blue (PhD), Peacock (DPT), Nile Green (DPM), Gold (MS / DSc) — matches university color‑code.
• Master’s and doctoral gowns include hoods and, for doctoral candidates, the appropriate velvet‑chevron sleeve design.
• Honor cords, stoles or medallions eligible if approved — otherwise regalia remains uniform.
• Perfect for degree‑conferral ceremonies, professional graduation photos, or academic memorabilia collections.

Note: To confirm the exact colors of the graduation gown, cap, tassel, honor cords, and stoles for your specific program at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science , you can reach out directly to the college's administration or the office responsible for commencement and student services. They can provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding academic regalia.