Graduation hat

Types of graduation hats

Graduation hats are ceremonial headwear worn during academic graduations, typically black caps with a flat square top and a tassel. They hold symbolic importance, representing the achievement of educational milestones and are a traditional part of graduation ceremonies worldwide. Here are types of graduation hats:

• Bachelor's Graduation Hat: The bachelor's graduation hat, commonly known as the mortarboard, is a flat, square cap with a tassel attached to it. Usually, it is black in color and accompanies a bachelor's degree gown. Students tilt the tassel from one side to the other when receiving their degrees. This hat is a symbol of scholarship and learning.
• Master's Graduation Hat: Similar to the bachelor's mortarboard, the master's graduation hat also has a flat square shape, but it comes with two tassels, one on each side. Students pursuing a master's degree wear it while receiving their diplomas, which is an indication of their advanced knowledge and expertise in their respective fields.
• Doctoral Graduation Hat: The doctoral graduation hat, or doctoral cap, is a type of graduation hat worn by individuals who have earned a doctoral degree, such as a Ph.D. or Ed.D. It is also referred to as a tam o'shanter or beret-like cap, and it has a soft, round shape with a tassel or multiple tassels. This hat symbolizes the highest level of academic achievement and is worn with pride during graduation ceremonies.
• Traditional Graduation Cap: While the mortarboard is the most recognized graduation cap style, various cultures have their own traditional graduation hats. These hats might have unique designs, colors, and symbols that reflect the academic customs and traditions of specific regions or institutions.
• Specialty Graduation Caps: Some fields of study or professions have specific graduation caps associated with them. For instance, medical graduates wear a cap known as the "Doctor's Cap," which is similar to the mortarboard but may have additional adornments or symbols related to medicine. Similarly, artists and musicians may have distinct caps that reflect their disciplines.
• Honorary Graduation Caps: Honorary degrees are awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to society or their fields, even if they do not hold formal academic qualifications. These individuals may wear specially designed graduation caps that signify their honorary degrees and the respect accorded to them.
• Cultural Variations: Different cultures and countries may have unique graduation hat styles and customs. For example, in some European countries, graduation hats may have specific colors or designs that represent the student's field of study or the university they attended.

Design of graduation hats

Graduation hats, also known as mortarboards, are flat, square-shaped caps with a horizontal board-like top and an academic tassel attached to it. The design of the graduation hat is both symbolic and practical, and it has evolved over centuries. Here's a look at its key components and design elements:

• Shape and Structure: The graduation hat is predominantly designed as a square, which sits horizontally on the head, with a headband that fits snugly around the wearer's forehead. This design is made from stiff fabric such as wool, polyester, or a blend of both. The top part of the hat is flat, and the sides are somewhat vertical, giving it a box-like appearance. This shape makes it easy to stack and carry other academic regalia, like robes and hoods.
• Tassel and Button: One of the most notable features of a graduation hat is its tassel, usually attached to a button or a small loop at the center of the hat's top. The tassel is long, with a thread-like material, and comes in various colors that signify the graduate's field of study or the institution's colors. Traditionally, graduates start with the tassel on the right side and move it to the left after receiving their degrees.
• Fabric and Materials: Graduation hats are commonly made from various materials, including velvet, polyester, and cotton blends. Velvet hats are typically used for higher degrees like master's and doctoral degrees due to their luxurious appearance and texture. The material is usually black, but it can also reflect the school's colors.
• Fit and Comfort: The mortarboard is designed to stay in place during the graduation ceremony, often secured with an elastic band or straps that fit under the chin or around the back of the head. These hats are designed for a comfortable yet secure fit to ensure they remain in place while the wearer walks across the stage. Some designs include adjustable bands or sizes to accommodate different head shapes and sizes.
• Decorative Elements: Some graduation hats feature additional decorative elements, such as embroidery, piping, or satin finishes. These elements can indicate the level of education, the specific field of study, or membership in academic honors societies. For instance, doctoral graduation hats may have velvet panels or ribbons that denote the wearer's specific discipline.
• Color Significance: The color of the graduation hat and gown often has symbolic meaning. Black is the most common color, representing formality and tradition. However, other colors may be used to signify different fields of study or to align with the institution's color scheme. For example, blue hats might be worn by graduates in the field of law, while green might signify medicine.
• Versatility: While the traditional design of the graduation hat has remained consistent, some variations exist to accommodate different cultures and academic traditions. For example, in some European countries, graduates wear beret-like hats with a tassel on one side. In contrast, others may incorporate specific cultural or religious elements into the design.

Wearing/ Matching suggestions of graduation hats

Graduation hats, known as caps, have different wearing and matching suggestions. Typically, the cap must be flat and square, placed horizontally on the head with the tassel hanging down in front. It is moved from the left to the right side after the awarding of the degree. The gown should be worn over formal attire, which may include a suit, tie, dress shirt, blouse, skirt, or dress, and should be clean, neat, and pressed.

For matching, ensure the gown and cap color complement the school's colors. Some schools use specific colors for different degrees, so follow their guidelines. The cap should fit snugly without obscuring vision or causing discomfort. The tassel should hang evenly on both sides of the cap before it is moved at the ceremony. Ensure the graduation attire is appropriate for the venue and weather, and consider the style of the gown when selecting formal attire. Dark suits are often preferred, while blouses or dresses in subtle tones may be recommended.

During the ceremony, ensure the cap is properly positioned on the head, with the tassel in front. After receiving the degree, move the tassel to the designated side, usually from the right to the left. Maintain a neat appearance throughout the event by adjusting the gown and cap as necessary. Take care of your graduation attire before the ceremony by keeping it clean and wrinkle-free. Hang the gown on a sturdy hanger to prevent wrinkles and avoid folding it tightly. If your gown and cap have specific cleaning instructions, follow them to ensure they remain in excellent condition.

Consider the weather on graduation day. If it's rainy or windy, secure your cap properly to prevent it from blowing off or getting damaged. Some caps have elastic bands or clips to help keep them in place. If it's cold, dress warmly underneath your gown, as they are often sleeveless. For hot weather, choose lightweight, formal attire that will keep you cool while adhering to graduation dress codes.

After graduation, keep your cap and gown as mementos of your achievement. Hang them in a closet to preserve their condition, or consider framing your cap as a keepsake. If you're interested in reusing your graduation attire for other events, check with your school's guidelines, as some caps and gowns can be worn for professional ceremonies or academic functions.

Q&A

Q1: What is the significance of a graduation cap and gown?

A1: The graduation cap and gown hold deep symbolic significance in the context of academic achievement. The gown symbolizes the educational institution's heritage and tradition, while the cap, specifically the mortarboard, represents the completion of a course of study. Together, they form a uniform that marks a significant life milestone, reflecting years of hard work and dedication.

Q2: What does the tassel on the graduation hat represent?

A2: The tassel is a significant part of the graduation hat, representing the transition from student to graduate. Traditionally, graduates move their tassels from one side to the other during the ceremony to signify the completion of their studies and the commencement of a new chapter in their lives.

Q3: Can one wear a graduation cap and gown without attending the ceremony?

A3: While wearing a graduation cap and gown outside of the ceremony is possible, doing so does not carry the same significance as participating in the formal event. The ceremony provides a structured environment to honor each graduate's achievements, making wearing the attire more meaningful.

Q4: Are there specific colors for different degrees?

A4: Yes, specific colors are associated with various academic degrees and fields of study. For instance, blue is often worn for business degrees, while green is used for medical degrees. These colors help identify graduates' areas of expertise and maintain tradition within academic ceremonies.