How Have Graduation Traditions Evolved Over the Centuries?

Many things bring us joy in life whether it's talking to a loved one, receiving a gift or achieving a milestone. One of the memorable moments is usually graduation. The hallmark of all the years you spent toiling in school.

Education has been a bone of contention for a few people globally; while some believe that it is important some tend to shrug it off as just a piece of paper. But when did graduation ceremonies begin? Where did the whole concept emerge from?

Graduation ceremonies are milestones that celebrate years of academic effort, symbolizing the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. While today they are filled with pomp and excitement, the tradition of graduation dates back centuries and is rooted in the customs of early universities in Europe.

The concept of formal education itself began in the Middle Ages. Around the 12th century, universities were established in Europe, most notably in Bologna, Italy, and Paris, France. These institutions attracted scholars from across Europe, many of whom were clergy or religious figures. At the time, education was primarily religious in nature, with theology being the main field of study. As these early institutions grew, they established structured programs and introduced the concept of degrees to mark the completion of each level of study.

The word "graduation" originates from the Latin word *gradus*, meaning "step." A degree was seen as a step up the academic ladder, a symbol of mastery and progression. When students completed their studies, they were awarded degrees to acknowledge their accomplishments.

In medieval Europe, the first degrees awarded were the *baccalaureus*, or bachelor’s degree, signifying the initial level of scholarly achievement, and the *magister*, or master’s degree, indicating more advanced study. The doctoral degree, often in law, medicine, or theology, was the highest level, awarded to those who had mastered a specific body of knowledge.

Graduation ceremonies themselves grew out of these early traditions. Initially, they were modest, religious gatherings where scholars were given their degrees by university authorities, often members of the clergy. These ceremonies were serious, solemn events, focused on the conferral of knowledge and wisdom rather than celebration.

The garb that we associate with graduation, the caps and gowns, also has its origins here. Scholars wore long robes, which were practical in the unheated halls of medieval universities, and hoods, a symbol of academic distinction. These robes and hoods would later become ceremonial attire, evolving into the graduation regalia we see today.

By the Renaissance, as universities spread and secular fields of study like the arts, sciences, and philosophy emerged, graduation ceremonies evolved too. No longer limited to religious studies, degrees in various academic disciplines became more widely recognized and respected.

With this, the ceremonies began to shift from purely religious gatherings to events with more formalized elements, including processions and speeches. The introduction of the mortarboard cap, said to represent a book, became a symbol of scholarship and intellectual achievement.

The spread of European-style universities to the Americas in the 17th and 18th centuries also brought graduation traditions to new continents. The United States, in particular, embraced graduation ceremonies as an essential part of academic culture. In colonial America, early universities like Harvard and Yale held graduation ceremonies that mirrored European traditions but adapted them for a new world. Speeches, often given in Latin, were a staple of early American graduations, with students and faculty presenting on topics relevant to the society of the time.

In modern times, graduation ceremonies have become much more elaborate, expanding to include personal touches like family celebrations, music, and sometimes, humorous or inspiring speeches by notable figures. Each school and university has its own unique traditions, whether it's tossing caps in the air, presenting symbolic diplomas, or holding ceremonial processions led by faculty members in full academic regalia.

Over the years, graduation ceremonies have come to represent not just academic achievement but also resilience, sacrifice, and perseverance. From their humble medieval origins to the grand celebrations we see today, these ceremonies have become cultural rituals, honouring the hard work of students, families, and educators alike. Whether viewed as a rite of passage or a stepping stone, graduation serves as a reminder of education's power to shape lives and communities.

As society continues to evolve, so too may the ways in which we celebrate educational milestones. However, the core of graduation—the acknowledgment of learning, growth, and potential—remains timeless. It is not simply a piece of paper, as some critics may claim, but a symbol of dedication and an invitation to pursue even greater challenges. For many, it’s a day to pause, reflect, and take pride in the journey. With that being said congratulations to the class of 2024 as you graduate this year.