uw madison graduation gown

Decoding the UW Madison Graduation Gown: A Symbol of Academic Achievement

The University of Wisconsin-Madison graduation gown, steeped in tradition, signifies the culmination of years of hard work and academic dedication. Unlike some institutions, UW-Madison primarily uses a standard black gown, but its significance lies in the subtle variations that denote degree level and field of study, particularly noticeable in the hood.

Understanding the UW-Madison Graduation Regalia

Graduation regalia, including the gown, cap (mortarboard), and hood, are more than just attire; they represent a visual history of academic accomplishment. The gown itself is generally a standard black, but it’s the hood that provides the key to understanding the graduate’s specific academic achievement at UW-Madison.

The Bachelor’s Gown

Bachelor’s degree candidates at UW-Madison typically wear a simple black gown with long, pointed sleeves. There is generally no adornment or specific trim on the gown itself. The primary distinction comes with the hood (if one is worn), which is simpler and smaller than those worn by graduate students.

The Master’s Gown

Master’s gowns are also black, but feature longer, closed sleeves with slits near the elbow. These slits are for the arms to pass through. The master’s hood is longer than the bachelor’s hood and lined with the colors of the University of Wisconsin-Madison (cardinal and white). The velvet trim of the hood indicates the specific field of study. For example, a graduate in Education would have light blue velvet.

The Doctoral Gown

Doctoral gowns are the most distinguished. They are black (or, in some cases, could be a darker color if a school chooses to implement a specific gown style), and feature velvet panels down the front and velvet chevrons on the sleeves. The doctoral hood is the largest and most elaborate, also lined with cardinal and white and trimmed with velvet to indicate the field of study. More information about academic dress can be found on Wikipedia’s academic dress page.

The Significance of the Hood Colors

The velvet trim on the hood holds significant meaning. The color represents the specific academic discipline in which the graduate has earned their degree. Some common examples include:

• White: Arts, Letters, Humanities
• Light Blue: Education
• Pink: Music
• Dark Blue: Philosophy
• Green: Medicine
• Purple: Law
• Scarlet: Theology
• Orange: Engineering
• Golden Yellow: Science

UW-Madison Graduation Regalia: Where to Obtain

UW-Madison students typically purchase or rent their graduation regalia through the University Bookstore or other approved vendors. Specific details regarding ordering deadlines, sizing, and pricing are usually communicated to students well in advance of the graduation ceremony.

FAQs About UW-Madison Graduation Gowns

What color is the UW-Madison graduation gown?

The standard UW-Madison graduation gown is black.

How do I know what hood color to wear?

The hood color is determined by your field of study. Consult your department or the University Bookstore for the correct color associated with your degree.

Do I need to purchase or rent my gown?

UW-Madison offers both purchase and rental options for graduation gowns. The University Bookstore is usually the primary vendor.

Can I decorate my graduation cap?

UW-Madison typically allows graduates to decorate their mortarboards, but there may be guidelines regarding appropriate content. Check with the university for specific regulations.

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

The primary differences are in the sleeves and hood. Bachelor’s gowns have simple sleeves, master’s gowns have closed sleeves with slits, and doctoral gowns have velvet panels and chevrons.

Summary

The UW-Madison graduation gown is a symbol of academic achievement and institutional pride. While the gown itself is generally black, the hood, with its lining and velvet trim, showcases the graduate’s specific degree and field of study, marking a significant milestone in their academic journey.