columbia academic regalia

Decoding Columbia University’s Academic Regalia

Columbia University’s academic regalia, a vibrant display of tradition, visually represents the wearer’s degree, field of study, and academic standing. The gowns, hoods, and caps are more than just ceremonial garments; they’re a symbolic language, echoing the rich history and intellectual pursuits of the university.

The Gown: A Reflection of Academic Degree

The gown is the foundation of the academic regalia. Bachelor’s gowns are typically simple, often untrimmed and with pointed sleeves. Master’s gowns feature longer, closed sleeves with slits for the arms. Doctoral gowns are the most elaborate, typically made of velvet and featuring distinctive velvet bars on the sleeves. These velvet bars are often in a color representing the field of study.

The Hood: A Colorful Identifier

The hood is arguably the most visually striking element of Columbia’s regalia. Its lining displays the university’s colors, Columbia blue and white. The velvet trim on the hood’s edge indicates the wearer’s field of study. For example, white signifies arts and letters, while dark blue represents philosophy. The length of the hood also varies based on the degree: bachelor’s hoods are shorter, while doctoral hoods are the longest. You can find more details about academic regalia in the United States on Wikipedia.

The Cap: The Mortarboard and Beyond

The traditional cap is the mortarboard, a square academic cap with a tassel. The tassel’s color can indicate the field of study or, for undergraduates, may simply be the university’s colors. For doctoral graduates, the tassel may be gold. Sometimes, graduates wear soft caps instead of mortarboards, particularly at the doctoral level.

Variations and University-Specific Details

While the general guidelines for academic regalia are standardized across many universities, Columbia has its own specific nuances. For instance, the specific shades of Columbia blue and white used in the hood lining are carefully chosen to match the university’s official colors. Some departments may also have specific traditions related to regalia, though these are generally subtle.

FAQs About Columbia University Academic Regalia

What do the colors on the hood mean?

The colors on the hood’s velvet trim represent the field of study in which the degree was earned. Each discipline has a designated color.

What’s the difference between a bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral gown?

The gowns differ in style and embellishment. Bachelor’s gowns are simple, master’s gowns have longer sleeves, and doctoral gowns are the most elaborate, featuring velvet.

Can I wear any cap I want?

Generally, the mortarboard is the standard cap. Doctoral graduates may sometimes opt for a soft cap.

Where can I purchase Columbia regalia?

Columbia University has authorized vendors from whom graduates can purchase or rent their regalia. Check the university’s commencement website for details.

Is there any significance to which side the tassel is on?

For undergraduate students, the tassel is typically worn on the right side before the degree is conferred and moved to the left after.

Summary

Columbia University’s academic regalia is a meaningful tradition, steeped in symbolism. From the cut of the gown to the color of the hood, each element conveys information about the wearer’s academic achievements and field of study. Understanding the components of this attire offers a deeper appreciation for the significance of commencement and the university’s commitment to academic excellence.