University of Dayton Commencement & Academic Regalia

The University of Dayton (UD) holds its commencement ceremonies in the UD Arena, welcoming undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral candidates in formal academic procession. Doors open about an hour in advance, and the ceremony typically lasts two to three hours.

Graduating students receive their graduation gown, cap, hood (if applicable), and tassels via the UD Bookstore. Importantly, graduating students do **not** pay extra for their regalia—the cost of cap and gown is already covered in their tuition.

According to UD’s regalia policy, undergraduate and master’s students wear a classic **black graduation gown** paired with a mortarboard cap. Doctoral graduates receive a more elaborate robe with velvet panels, and they may also wear a tam instead of a mortarboard.

The **academic hood**, required for master’s and doctoral students, is trimmed and lined to reflect the graduate’s field of study. The lining features UD’s school colors, and the velvet border of the hood corresponds to the discipline of the degree. While UD does not have a broadly published color list for honor cords, their graduation FAQ indicates that students receive their honors cords along with their regalia.

As for **stoles**, UD’s policies (especially for professional or graduate schools like Law) restrict what may be worn: for example, Law students are permitted to wear only honor cords or approved “pro bono” or professional sashes in the ceremony.

Faculty participating in commencement are required to wear **academic regalia** appropriate to their highest earned degree and institution. According to UD’s faculty handbook, professors must don their academic costume — robes, hoods, caps — during formal ceremonies. The velvet trim and hood lining on faculty regalia reflect their academic discipline and the institution that awarded their terminal degree.

In summary, the University of Dayton’s commencement blends tradition, symbolism, and academic identity. Graduates wear black gowns and classic academic caps; advanced-degree students add velvet-trimmed hoods. Honor cords or professional sashes are used selectively, and faculty regalia underscores scholarly achievement. This academic dress code ensures a dignified, cohesive, and meaningful graduation ceremony.

UD Academic Regalia – Cap, Gown & Honor Accessories

• Black graduation gown – classic UD-style for all degree levels
• Mortarboard cap or velvet tam – suited to your degree type
• Discipline-appropriate tassel – part of the official UD regalia order
• Academic hood (if applicable) – lined in University of Dayton red & blue, with velvet trim to reflect your major
• Honor cord or sash – available for those in qualifying programs like law or pro bono
• High-quality, durable fabric – designed for long ceremonies and memorable photos
• Regalia cost is included in your tuition – thanks to UD’s comprehensive commencement policy

Get ready for your UD graduation with this fully approved academic regalia set. Includes everything you need for a dignified, tradition-rich commencement ceremony.

Note: To confirm the exact colors of the graduation gown, cap, tassel, honor cords, and stoles for your specific program at University of Dayton , 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.