Graduation

Instructions for Graduates

Check-in

We request that graduates arrive by 8:45 a.m. to check-in.

Upon arriving at Pepperdine University (Malibu Campus), please go directly to the southwest side of the Firestone Field House (adjacent to Heritage Hall) where you will find the check-in tables, that will be arranged by program. At this time you will be asked to verify your personal information and be given a name card. 

Cap and Gown

After check-in, graduates will be directed to the tent located behind the Firestone Fieldhouse where you will be fitted for your cap and gown. There is no fee for cap and gown rental.

Graduates will then be directed to the tennis courts where you will be assisted with robing.

We suggest wearing "business casual" attire and do not recommend wearing a suit, which is likely to be too warm.  Comfortable shoes are also suggested, as you will march in the processional and recessional. Please note: there will not be a storage area for personal belongings.

Caps and gowns must be returned to the designated return area, located at the reception field, after the ceremony.

Graduates' Pre-ceremony Reception

After you are robed, please join fellow graduates and faculty members at the  pre-ceremony reception for light refreshments and photo opportunities. Please remain in the tennis court area until line up begins.

Line Up

Line up of graduates will begin promptly at 9:30 a.m.

Please listen for instructions which will be made over the PA system. When your program is called, please report promptly to the designated area and line up in numerical order (according to the number on your name card). Once the line up process is completed, students who excelled in their studies will be recognized for their achievement during the presentation of the honor cords.You will then be lead down to the Firestone Fieldhouse entrance to begin the processional.

Ceremony

The graduation ceremony will begin promptly at 10:30 a.m. and will conclude at noon.

During the ceremony, graduates should remain standing until all graduates have entered the Fieldhouse. Men should remove their caps for prayers, the national anthem, and the pledge of allegiance. 

When the graduate candidates are asked to rise, please rise together and remain standing until the president or dean confers the degree, then you may sit down. Upon cue from the ushers, graduates will rise and proceed to the stage row by row.

• Enter the stage on the RIGHT side.
• Hand your name card to the card collector.
• As your name is called, walk across the stage to receive your diploma jacket in your left hand.
• Shake hands with the president with your right hand.
• Exit the stage on the LEFT side to have your photo taken.
• Return to your seat.

Reception

Ushers will direct you to the outdoor reception, located east of the Firestone Fieldhouse immediately after the recessional. Please tell your guests to meet you at the designated campus signs for light refreshments and photo opportunities. Please note: the cap and gown return area is located on the reception field.