Graduation gowns come in different colors to signify various academic achievements and distinctions. These colors often represent different fields of study, levels of education, or honors received by the graduate. Understanding the meaning behind these colors can enhance the graduation experience and provide insight into academic traditions.
What Do Graduation Gown Colors Mean?
Graduation gown colors are not chosen at random; they are part of a rich academic tradition. Here’s a breakdown of what different colors typically signify:
- Black: Usually worn for undergraduate degrees, black is the most common gown color and signifies the completion of a degree.
- White: Often used for humanities and arts degrees, white symbolizes purity and new beginnings.
- Red: Represents degrees in theology or divinity, reflecting passion and vitality.
- Blue: Typically associated with education or philosophy, blue conveys truth and wisdom.
- Green: Used for medicine and health-related fields, green signifies growth and renewal.
- Purple: Often seen in law and architecture, purple denotes royalty and authority.
- Gold: Represents achievement in science or engineering, symbolizing wealth and prosperity.
These colors can vary slightly depending on the institution, but they generally adhere to the standards set by the American Council on Education.
Why Do Different Schools Have Unique Gown Colors?
While many institutions follow the traditional color guidelines, some schools choose unique colors to reflect their identity and heritage. This practice helps to foster a sense of pride and belonging among students and alumni. For example:
- School Traditions: Some universities have long-standing traditions that dictate specific gown colors.
- School Colors: Institutions might incorporate their official school colors into graduation attire to strengthen school spirit.
- Custom Designs: Special designs or trims may be added to gowns to honor specific achievements or commemorate significant milestones.
How Are Graduation Gown Colors Chosen?
The selection of gown colors typically follows the guidelines established by academic councils and institutions. Here’s how the process generally works:
- Field of Study: Each academic discipline is assigned a specific color, as outlined by the Intercollegiate Bureau of Academic Costume.
- Level of Degree: The gown style and color may vary based on whether the degree is an associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate.
- Institutional Preference: Schools may adopt additional colors or designs to honor their unique traditions and values.
What Are the Components of Graduation Attire?
Graduation attire consists of several components, each with its own significance:
- Gown: The gown’s color and style denote the graduate’s field of study and degree level.
- Cap: Also known as a mortarboard, the cap is typically black and features a tassel that may be moved from one side to the other after the degree is conferred.
- Hood: Worn over the gown for master’s and doctoral degrees, the hood’s color lining reflects the graduate’s field of study and institution.
- Stole or Cord: These are often added to signify honors or membership in academic societies.
Comparison of Graduation Gown Features
| Feature | Bachelor’s Gown | Master’s Gown | Doctoral Gown |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sleeve Style | Pointed | Oblong | Bell-shaped |
| Hood | None | Yes | Yes |
| Velvet Trim | No | No | Yes |
| Tassel Position | Right to Left | Right to Left | Left to Right |
People Also Ask
What Does a Gold Tassel Mean?
A gold tassel often signifies academic honors or a high level of achievement. It is commonly worn by graduates who have earned a degree in a field such as science or engineering.
Why Do Some Graduates Wear Stoles?
Stoles are worn to denote membership in honor societies, student organizations, or to represent cultural heritage. They add a personal touch to the graduation attire and acknowledge the graduate’s extracurricular achievements.
Can Graduates Choose Their Gown Color?
Typically, graduates do not choose their gown color, as it is determined by their field of study and the institution’s guidelines. However, graduates might have some flexibility with accessories like stoles or cords.
How Do Schools Decide on Graduation Colors?
Schools decide on graduation colors based on traditional guidelines, institutional history, and the specific academic disciplines offered. The colors are often standardized to maintain uniformity and uphold academic traditions.
What Is the Significance of a Hood in Graduation Attire?
The hood signifies the graduate’s academic discipline and level of achievement. Its colors and length vary depending on the degree and institution, symbolizing the graduate’s educational journey.
Conclusion
Understanding the significance of different color graduation gowns can enhance the graduation experience by highlighting the achievements and traditions associated with academic attire. Whether you’re a graduate or a guest, recognizing these colors adds depth to the ceremony and celebrates the diverse accomplishments of students across various disciplines. For more insights into academic traditions, consider exploring related topics such as "The History of Academic Regalia" or "Understanding Academic Honors and Distinctions."
