Whether you’re heading into your final semester or you are just getting started, you have the same end goal – graduation. Here are some FAQs we get from students who are planning for graduation:
How do I register for graduation?
If you plan to graduate (certificate, associate, bachelor’s, or master’s degree) at the end of the semester, you must register for graduation so a final degree audit can be completed to verify your eligibility. You’ll register for graduation just as you would for a class. See the example below for how to find graduation in the course search:
Fall and winter semesters have two sections: one designated for students who intend to walk in the ceremony and the other for students that don’t wish to attend. Be sure to select the appropriate section for your plans.
The deadline for registering for graduation is the first Thursday of the semester at 5:00 pm. A $40 graduation fee is assessed at the time of registration.
What if I miss the deadline?
Students can apply for graduation after the deadline for the current semester only by filling out a Request to Add Graduation form. When the form is turned in to the Registrar’s Office, a final audit will be prepared to determine if the student qualifies for graduation. If so, the Registrar’s Office staff will register the student for graduation. Your adviser can help with this.
What do I need for the ceremony?
Global Campus students are invited to participate in the full on-campus commencement ceremony with their fellow graduates. We also host a Global Campus Graduation Celebration the night before Commencement to bring together students and their families, faculty, and staff to honor new graduates. Check with your adviser for details on this year’s event.
If you do plan to participate in the ceremony, you’ll need a cap and gown. The approved commencement attire consists of the NMU cap, gown, and tassel. This regalia is available for purchase at the NMU Bookstore through Saturday of Commencement or online if you’re out of the area. For more information, go to www.nmu.edu/commencement/caps-gowns-tassels.
Students who choose not to participate in the ceremony will be invited to give permission for their name to be displayed on a scrolling screen during the ceremony and will have the ability to watch a live-stream of the event.
Can my family attend the ceremony?
Guest seating in the bleachers of the Superior Dome is unlimited and open to the general public. Children are welcome to attend the ceremony. If you have family attending that might have difficulty sitting in bleachers, we encourage someone from your party to arrive early (9:30 am) to save a seat. The Superior Dome opens at 9:30 am and the ceremony begins at 10:00 am. If staying in a hotel is a part of your plan, be sure to reserve now. Marquette may seem like a sleepy town, but this weekend tends to sell out!
We recommend that you regularly run your Curriculum, Advising, and Program Planning (CAPP) degree evaluation. When you realize you are in your last few semesters, it is appropriate to start planning for graduation. If you have additional questions, please reach out to your academic adviser.
