Academic dress

University graduation ceremonies are steeped in tradition, and the iconic gowns and hoods worn by graduates are no exception.

These garments have their roots in medieval times when universities were primarily institutions run by the Church. Students, who were often clerics themselves, wore gowns as everyday attire. Universities adopted these gowns as a uniform, and the tradition stuck even as everyday clothing styles evolved. Another practical reason for the gowns? They provided much-needed warmth in the unheated buildings where scholars spent countless hours studying.

• Caps, originally rounded, are now square mortarboards.
• Hoods, originally cowled, were attached to the gown and could be slipped over the head for warmth. 

New Zealand universities have a system of academic dress, worn by graduates to indicate their degree.

If you graduate in person, you must wear the appropriate academic dress for your qualification – ie Bachelors, Masters or Doctorate. Academic dress is ceremonial and worn over reasonably formal clothes at your graduation ceremony.

If you are receiving a diploma or certificate, and you already have a degree, you should wear the appropriate academic dress for that degree. If you are not a graduate, you should wear an undergraduate gown without a hood or mortarboard.

Please note that you will be required to go on stage to receive your certificate. Appropriate clothing and footwear should therefore be a consideration.