Graduation
Bachelor of Liberal Studies (BLS) degrees are awarded at the end of each term (summer, fall, spring) for students who have completed all of the requirements and have completed an online Degree Application. The commencement ceremony in May is for all three graduation terms and is held one week after the spring term ends. Those who graduate in the previous summer or fall are expected to return for the May commencement ceremony.
Online Degree Application for Graduation
You are required to complete an online Degree Application one year before you expect to graduate. The application period generally occurs early in the fall and spring semesters. Watch for an email to your UMW account notifying you that the application period is open. You can also look in the online guide to registration published on the Registrar’s webpage for the application deadline.
You cannot graduate if you do not complete a Degree Application, so you must forward your emails if you do not use your UMW email account.
If you miss the online window, and will be graduating in the current or summer term please email the Degree Auditor in the Office of the Registrar with the following information:
- Banner ID (000XXXXXX)
- Intended graduation term
- Diploma name (your name exactly as you want it written on your diploma)
- Hometown city and state (or nation)
- If you are a double major, specify what your primary/secondary majors are
If you are graduating in a subsequent term and missed the initial application window, watch for emails indicating when the window will reopen or consult the online Guide to Registration on the Registrar’s webpage.
For complete graduation information and FAQs, visit the Registrar’s webpage regarding graduation requirements and processes. Commencement information is posted early in the spring semester.
Diplomas and Transcripts
All diplomas are mailed to students using the mailing address on your student account. If your address is incorrect, you must submit an official change of address form to the Registrar’s office. If your diploma is mailed to the wrong address, it will be replaced at your expense.
Please refer to the Registrar’s webpage regarding your UMW diploma and official transcripts. Remember, the diploma will list your degree: Bachelor of Liberal Studies. Your transcript will list the degree along with your program(s) of study (majors and minors), as well as any honors you received.
If you have any financial holds on your record, you will not receive your diploma or your transcripts.