Graduation gowns come in a variety of colors, each signifying different levels of academic achievement or fields of study. Understanding these colors can enhance the graduation experience by highlighting the diversity and accomplishments of the graduates.
What Do the Colors Mean on a Graduation Gown?
Graduation gown colors typically represent the degree level, academic discipline, or the institution itself. Bachelor’s degrees often feature black gowns, while master’s degrees may have hoods with specific colors indicating the field of study. Doctoral gowns are usually more elaborate, often with velvet panels and chevrons in colors that signify the graduate’s discipline.
Understanding Graduation Gown Colors by Degree Level
What Do Bachelor’s Degree Gown Colors Represent?
- Black Gowns: Most commonly used for bachelor’s degree graduates, symbolizing the traditional academic achievement.
- Hood Colors: Typically, bachelor’s gowns do not include hoods, but if they do, the hood color often represents the institution’s colors.
What Do Master’s Degree Gown Colors Represent?
- Hood: The master’s gown includes a hood that is lined with the institution’s colors and edged in velvet that indicates the field of study.
- Color Examples:
- Arts and Humanities: White
- Business: Drab
- Education: Light Blue
- Science: Golden Yellow
What Do Doctoral Degree Gown Colors Represent?
- Gown Design: Doctoral gowns are more elaborate, with velvet panels and chevrons.
- Hood and Velvet Colors: Indicate the field of study, similar to master’s hoods.
- Law: Purple
- Medicine: Green
- Philosophy: Dark Blue
How Do Institutions Influence Gown Colors?
Some universities use specific colors for their gowns to reflect school spirit and tradition. For example, Harvard uses crimson, while Columbia University uses a unique shade of blue. These colors are often prominently displayed on the gown hoods and trim.
Practical Examples of Graduation Gown Colors
Consider the following examples of graduation gown colors and their meanings:
- Engineering Graduates: Often wear orange hoods.
- Nursing Graduates: Typically have apricot hoods.
- Fine Arts Graduates: Wear brown hoods.
These colors help to visually identify the graduate’s field of study during the ceremony.
Why Are Graduation Gown Colors Important?
Graduation gown colors are important because they:
- Celebrate Diversity: Highlight the range of disciplines and achievements.
- Enhance Identification: Allow attendees to easily identify graduates’ fields of study.
- Reflect Tradition: Uphold academic traditions and institutional pride.
People Also Ask
What Do the Tassel Colors Mean on a Graduation Cap?
Tassel colors often match the hood or gown and signify the graduate’s field of study. For example, a gold tassel may represent a degree in science, while a purple tassel might indicate a degree in law.
Why Do Some Graduation Gowns Have Stripes?
Stripes on a graduation gown, usually found on the sleeves, are indicative of a doctoral degree. They are often in the color that represents the graduate’s field of study.
How Are Graduation Gown Colors Decided?
Graduation gown colors are typically decided by academic institutions, following guidelines established by the Intercollegiate Bureau of Academic Costume. These guidelines ensure consistency and recognition across different universities and colleges.
Are Graduation Gown Colors the Same Worldwide?
While many Western countries follow similar color conventions, other regions may have different traditions. For instance, some Asian universities use unique colors and designs to reflect local culture and academic achievements.
Can Students Choose Their Graduation Gown Colors?
Generally, students do not choose their gown colors, as these are predetermined by the institution and the field of study. However, some schools allow for personalization within certain guidelines.
Conclusion
Understanding the colors of graduation gowns enhances the significance of the ceremony by celebrating academic achievements and the diversity of disciplines. Whether you’re attending a graduation or preparing for your own, knowing what these colors mean can enrich the experience. For more insights into academic traditions, consider exploring topics like "The History of Academic Regalia" or "How to Prepare for Your Graduation Ceremony."
