Academic Dress: What do the different Graduation gowns mean?

BCU Graduation ceremonies bring together our talented students to celebrate their achievements along with their tutors, families, and friends.

But whether you’re graduating with a BA, an MA, or a PhD, graduations are the perfect chance to dress to impress and don your cap and gown.

However, there’s a lot more to Graduation gowns than what meets the eye! What you wear for your Graduation ceremony all depends on what you studied and your level of study too. 

Check out our handy guide to Graduation gowns so you'll be a pro in time for your ceremony.

BACHELORS: With and without Honours

Bachelor of Arts
Bachelor of Education
Bachelor of Engineering
Bachelor of Laws
Bachelor of Music
Bachelor of Science
Graduate Diploma

MASTER’S

Master of Architecture
Master of Arts
Master of Business Administration
Master of Education
Master of Laws
Master of Music
Master of Science
Master in Teaching and Learning

MPHIL

Master of Philosophy
Advanced Postgraduate Diploma

PGCERT/PGDIP

Postgraduate Certificate
Postgraduate Certificate in Education
Professional Graduate Certificate in Education
Postgraduate Diploma

HIGHER DOCTORS

Doctor of the University
Doctor of the University (Honorary Award)

PHD

Doctor of Philosophy
Doctor of Business Administration

PEARSON AWARDS

Higher National Diploma
Higher National Certificate

CERTHE/DIPHE

Foundation Degree
Diploma of Higher Education
Diploma of Higher Education Nursing
Certificate of Higher Education
Foundation Certificate
Advanced Diploma in Professional Studies
Diploma in Professional Studies
Certificate in Professional Studies

NATIONAL TEACHING FELLOWS

HIGHER EDUCATION ACADEMY: PRINCIPAL AND SENIOR