commencement.buffalostate.edu/

Commencement is held each May at the end of the spring semester to honor the current Buffalo State graduating class. Graduate students should file an application for degree or certificate by the posted deadline for the anticipated term of program completion. The graduation application is posted online.

The Academic Affairs Office sends commencement ceremony information to eligible participants, typically during spring recess, via Buffalo State student email and/or student permanent mailing addresses. It is possible that candidates who submit their graduation applications after the posted deadlines may not receive commencement information and/or have their names listed in the ceremony program. The commencement website provides ceremony details, ticketing procedures, cap and gown information, a section for families, and related events.

The commencement ceremony celebrates the recent graduates and spring and summer candidates for the current academic year. A student becomes a graduate once a successful degree/certificate audit is completed and the degree or certificate is awarded. Diplomas and certificates are not distributed at the commencement ceremony; they are mailed to permanent addresses up to six weeks following the final term of study. Students should be sure their addresses of record are up to date to avoid delay in receiving commencement information or their diplomas or certificates. The change of address form is provided on the Registrar’s website.

There are no academic honors distinctions or gold honors cords at the graduate level.

See Graduation, Commencement for graduation requirements.