against a black background are a collection of blossoming psychedelic shape outlines, collapsing into themselves in concentric ripples. the individual shapes are a range of solid colors, from wide swooshing blue to angular crimson and rippling chartreuse.

Commencement

The Class of 2024 Commencement will take place Thursday, May 16, at 10 a.m. in the Academy of Music, located at 240 S. Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19102

The event will also be livestreamed, available to anyone on any device that has access to Wi-Fi and will include the Commencement traditions that make UArts’ graduation unique: student performances, a graduating student valedictory address, honoring exceptional alumni , awards bestowed on students and faculty and the conferral of  honorary degrees upon illustrious artists who will address our graduates. Visit YouTube to view the livestream. Ver en español.

Frequently Asked Questions

Venue


Where is the event taking place?


The event will take place at the Academy of Music, 240 S. Broad St., Philadelphia, PA 19102.

Ceremony

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What day does the ceremony take place?

Commencement will be held Thursday, May 16, 2024.

What time does the ceremony begin, and when do doors open for my guests?

Doors open at 9 a.m., and the ceremony processional begins promptly at 10 a.m.

How long is the ceremony?

The ceremony begins promptly at 10:00 a.m. and lasts until approximately 1 p.m. EDT.

Will there be a reception following the event?

Yes. The Samba Band recessional will lead students and their guests directly to Solmssen Court in Hamilton Hall for a reception with light refreshments immediately following the event.

Can I watch the ceremony remotely?

Guests are welcome to view the live stream from any device with wi-fi at on YouTube.

Do I or my guests have to view the ceremony live, or can I watch it anytime, in perpetuity?

You do not need to watch the ceremony live; you can view it on YouTube. Search “University of the Arts Commencement” and add your graduating year.

How do I get photos that were taken at the ceremony?

LifeTouch will send an email to your UArts account within two weeks of the ceremony so you can purchase your photos. You may also search its database on Lifetouch’s site two weeks after your ceremony for yours and other ceremony photos.

Award Ceremonies & Graduate Hooding Ceremony

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Will there be award ceremonies, and when will I be notified if I receive an award?

Your school will notify you via your UArts email account as to when, where and if you are an awardee. Check with your school directly for more information.

Will there be a Hooding Ceremony for graduate students receiving Master’s degrees?

Your school will notify you via your UArts email account as to when and where that event will take place. Check with your school directly for more information.

2024 Award Ceremonies

See when and where each School will have their awards ceremonies to celebrate 2024 graduates.

2023 Award Ceremonies

 


 

Tickets

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Where and when do I pick up my tickets?

Students may pick up their cap, gown and tickets all at the same time during the 15 Days to Graduation event on Wednesday, May 1, 2024 between 10am-6pm in the Student Center (formerly Gershman Hall).  Additional details will be shared via the Class of 2024 Canvas Classroom in early spring. 

How many tickets am I eligible for?

Three—the number of tickets we give each eligible graduating student is based on the amount of seats available in the venue versus the amount of graduates walking in the class. 

I need more than three tickets. How do I obtain more?

Once tickets are picked up by graduates, we will see if anyone has returned tickets or given them back for other students to use. After 6 p.m. on Friday, May 3, 2024, commencement@uarts.edu will send out an email to graduating students stating that we are holding a lottery for any leftover tickets. Students complete an online request form for additional tickets. Again, it depends on tickets given back or not picked up by other students. Our office does our very best to accommodate everyone who needs additional tickets based on what has been turned back in.

Frames, Area Hotels, Parking

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Where do I buy announcements, frames and other commemorative items?

To order a diploma frame use this link through the UArts Bookstore.

For announcements, we recommend that you order from Minted, Vistaprint, or Zazzle.  

Questions? Contact shop@uarts.edu

Are there hotel discounts for UArts visitors?

Please visit our listing of Local Hotel partners.

Is there parking nearby?

Kimmel Center Parking Lot

Visit Philly: Use a parking locator or look for garages, kiosks and meterUp.

Spot Hero: Reserve Philadelphia parking in advance, online or through this free app.

The Awards

Learn more about 2023's honorary degree recipients and Silver Star awardees

The Awards 2023

Have more questions? Feel free to email commencement@uarts.edu.