CU Denver Commencement

Commencement honors the achievement of one's academic goals and the beginning of the next vocational commitment. CU Denver ceremonies occur twice a year in December and May. Summer graduates are invited to participate in the fall ceremony. Participation in commencement is permitted only after a student has completed all of their degree requirements and has applied to graduate.

Tickets are not required for either commencement ceremony.

Information on this website is intended to answer questions about the commencement ceremony for graduates, attendees and faculty. If you are unable to find the information you are seeking on this site, please contact the Commencement Office at 303-315-2113 or commencement@ucdenver.edu.

Spring 2021 Celebration 

COVID-19 Update (As Of January 5, 2021)

We are working on plans to recognize our spring graduates this May. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, the university is monitoring event guidelines at the national, state, and and city levels. Our goal is to communicate plans by early March so graduates and loved ones can make the necessary arrangements. All eligible graduates will be emailed with the next steps, in addition to the details being posted on this website. 

Gown & Hood Return - 2020 Graduates

If you rented a cap and gown as part of your personal celebration, please return the gown (and hood for graduate-level students) using the prepaid return label included in your package. Caps/tams and tassels are yours to keep! If you misplaced your return prepaid return label, please submit a request for a new label. Returns must be shipped by December 28, 2020. An on-campus drop-off location is not available.

Future Commencement Celebration Dates

Saturday, December 18, 2021 - Summer & Fall 2021 Graduates

Saturday, May 14, 2022 - Spring 2022 Graduates