What Do the Different Graduation Robes Mean?
Graduation is a time to celebrate a significant milestone in one’s academic journey. It is a day filled with joy, pride, and anticipation for the future. One of the most iconic symbols of graduation is the graduation robe, or academic gown.
Graduation robes have a long history dating back to the Middle Ages. They were originally worn by university professors and scholars to signify their academic rank and affiliation. Over time, the practice of wearing graduation robes spread to students, and today they are a ubiquitous sight at graduation ceremonies around the world.
But what do the different graduation robes mean? What do the colors, shapes, and symbols represent? In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the symbolism and significance of graduation robes.
Colors of Graduation Robes
The color of a graduation robe is typically indicative of the degree or field of study that the graduate has earned. Here is a general guide to the most common colors:
- Black: Arts, humanities, and social sciences
- Blue: Natural sciences and mathematics
- Green: Medicine and health sciences
- Red: Law
- Purple: Divinity and theology
- Yellow: Liberal arts and sciences
- Orange: Engineering and technology
However, it is important to note that color conventions can vary from institution to institution. It is always best to check with your school or department to confirm the specific color associated with your degree.
Shapes of Graduation Robes
Graduation robes also come in a variety of shapes, each with its own unique meaning and significance. Here are the four most common shapes:
- Bachelor’s Robe: A simple, open-fronted robe that falls just below the knees. It is typically worn with a hood that is lined with the color of the graduate’s degree.
- Master’s Robe: A longer robe that extends to mid-calf and has closed sleeves. It is worn with a hood that is trimmed with velvet and lined with the color of the graduate’s degree.
- Doctoral Robe: The most elaborate and formal robe, which extends to the floor. It has full-length sleeves and is worn with a hood that is lined with velvet and trimmed with gold or silver.
- Academic Hood: A long, flowing hood that is worn over the graduation robe. It is typically lined with the color of the graduate’s degree and may also feature other symbols or insignia.
Symbols on Graduation Robes
In addition to the color and shape, graduation robes may also feature a variety of symbols. These symbols can represent the graduate’s affiliation with a particular university, society, or organization. Common symbols include:
- University Seal: The seal of the graduate’s university is often embroidered on the back of the robe.
- Departmental Colors: The colors of the graduate’s department or major may be featured on the robe or hood.
- Honor Cords: Cords of various colors and materials may be worn around the neck to signify academic honors or achievements.
- Class Year: The year of the graduate’s graduation may be embroidered on the robe or hood.
Significance of Graduation Robes
Graduation robes are more than just ceremonial garments. They are symbols of academic achievement, scholarly distinction, and the enduring bond between graduates and their alma maters. By wearing graduation robes, graduates not only celebrate their own accomplishments but also connect themselves to a long and storied tradition of higher education.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why do graduates wear different colors of robes?
The color of a graduation robe typically indicates the degree or field of study that the graduate has earned. For example, black robes are worn by graduates of arts, humanities, and social sciences, while blue robes are worn by graduates of natural sciences and mathematics.
2. What is the significance of the hood on a graduation robe?
The hood on a graduation robe is a symbol of the graduate’s academic rank. Bachelor’s hoods are simple and open-fronted, while master’s hoods are longer and have closed sleeves. Doctoral hoods are the most elaborate and formal, and they have full-length sleeves and are lined with velvet.
3. What do the symbols on graduation robes represent?
Symbols on graduation robes can represent the graduate’s affiliation with a particular university, society, or organization. Common symbols include the university seal, departmental colors, honor cords, and the class year.
4. What is the proper way to wear a graduation robe?
Graduation robes should be worn with the hood over the head and the robe closed in the front. The sleeves should be full-length and the robe should extend to the floor.
5. Can I wear my graduation robe after the ceremony?
Many graduates choose to wear their graduation robes after the ceremony as a way to commemorate their achievement. Graduation robes can be worn to job interviews, alumni events, and other special occasions.
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