Certificate Programs
Certificate students automatically receive a certificate if they have applied to the program and satisfied all of the requirements. Certificate students do not need to file an intent to graduate.
MGIS, MS SDS and HLS Programs
Students who are planning to graduate must file an intent to graduate.
Students who have filed an intent to graduate and who plan to come to the in-person ceremony on campus must reserve a seat. Master's candidates planning to attend the ceremony must go to Commencement Registration and sign up.
Students who are attending graduation should secure lodging as soon as possible.
Students who are attending graduation need to purchase regalia. You may purchase caps and gowns from the Penn State Bookstore. If you need assistance, contact the bookstore at 814-863-3589.
MGIS and MS SDS students are Geography majors receiving a master's degree; the color of the graduation hood is gold and yellow. Like other graduate degrees, MGIS and MS SDS degrees will be awarded in the Graduate School ceremony. The Department of Geography is part of the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences, but the College of EMS ceremony is for undergraduates.
MPS HLS students attending graduation ceremonies at University Park should wear a white hood. Like other graduate degrees, HLS degrees will be awarded in the Graduate School ceremony.