Graduation Gowns & Traditions Around the World: Celebrate Your Irish Ceremony

Historical Significance

Though graduation gowns in Ireland have evolved over the years, academic dress has historical roots. The design resembles European garments of the 11th and 12th centuries, which was a time when university study started to gain momentum. The pattern and style of an Irish graduation gown is therefore a nod to its academic provenance.

Academic Excellence

Graduation gowns add to the sense of occasion. They’re a visual demonstration of academic prowess. The colours link students to a particular faculty and all of the graduates of that faculty that came before them. Graduation gowns are a recognisable symbol of a successful university career and emphasise the important role the institution plays in people’s lives.

Modern Utility

Though graduation gowns still have all of these great traditional and cultural elements, they have been updated for modern wearers. The material is light-weight and easy to wear which is useful for graduates who must wear a gown throughout a lengthy ceremony and busy day of celebrations. Hoods and gowns have been given modern fastenings that are easier to use than the previous pin-and-loop system so nothing detracts from a graduate’s big day.

Conferring Ceremony

In this central part of graduation, students step up in front of their peers, friends, and family to formally receive their degree. The ceremony generally takes place in a grand space that is significant to the university. 

You can expect a procession of key faculty members as well as speeches from important figures such as the university president. Another charming element sees honorary degrees presented to people who have contributed much to the university or Irish society at large.

Family & Friends

Naturally, graduation is a time for family and friends to come together in celebration. Throughout the day, students have the opportunity to have professional photographs taken with their family, friends, and classmates as a memento of the special occasion that can be cherished for years to come.

Graduation Traditions at Different Institutions

Students of specific Irish institutions have their own traditions for graduation day, some are born of superstition, some simply a bit of graduation day fun. For example, graduates of University College Cork believe it is bad luck to cross the quad or step on the grass of the grounds before their exams. Hence, on graduation day, students happily cross the quad together and get photographs as a symbolic gesture.