Graduation Hoods

Graduation hoods play a vital role in the academic regalia worn by graduates receiving bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in the United States (US), the United Kingdom (UK), and Australia. These hoods are more than just attire; they symbolize the academic journey and accomplishments of each graduate. These hoods serve as more than just fashionable accessories; they represent a graduate’s academic achievements and field of study.

Bachelor’s Hoods

• United States: Bachelor’s hoods in the US are square-shaped with a pointed tail. The color of the hood’s lining represents the graduate’s field of study, while a trim may incorporate the institution’s colors. Wearing these hoods during commencement marks the culmination of undergraduate education and the beginning of a new chapter.

• United Kingdom:  UK bachelor’s hoods are rounded and full, often with a distinctive mantle. Lining color signifies the area of study, and the presence of the mantle is a unique UK tradition. These hoods symbolize not only achievement but also the continuation of academic pursuit.

• Australia: Australian bachelor’s hoods combine elements from the UK and US traditions, featuring a smaller, rounded shape without the mantle. Lining colors, like in the other countries, denote the field of study. These hoods unite graduates with the global tradition of academic excellence.

Master’s Hoods

Graduation master hoods are an integral part of academic regalia in the United States (US), the United Kingdom (UK), and Australia. These hoods hold distinctive features and symbolism, representing the graduate’s attainment of a master’s degree.

Master’s hoods share similar characteristics across these nations, with the distinguishing feature being the shape and size, which is more modest compared to doctoral hoods. The color of the lining represents the specific discipline, while the hood itself signifies the attainment of advanced knowledge and expertise.

Doctoral Hoods

Graduation doctoral hoods hold a place of great significance in the academic traditions of the United States (US), the United Kingdom (UK), and Australia, marking the highest level of academic achievement attainable.

Doctoral hoods are the most elaborate, representing the pinnacle of academic achievement. They are larger and fuller, with a more extended hood, and often incorporate velvet panels or other decorative elements. The lining color remains significant, marking the doctoral graduate’s specialized expertise and contribution to their field.

In all three countries, these graduation hoods serve as symbols of knowledge, dedication, and the transition to a new stage in a graduate’s academic or professional journey. They connect individuals to a global tradition of scholarship and are worn with pride during commencement ceremonies, signifying the years of hard work and dedication that have led to this significant milestone.