  What is the difference between the Commencement Ceremony and the Diploma & Hooding Ceremonies?
The Commencement Ceremony is an all-University ceremony that will feature the Honorary Degree recipients, Commencement Speaker, Student Speaker, Order of the Pacific, and the conferral of all degrees by the president. The Diploma & Hooding Ceremonies are school specific giving students the opportunity for individual recognition and to be "hooded" as a graduate of Pacific.
How many guests can I bring to my graduation?
The Commencement Ceremony that takes place at 9:30 am in the Spanos Center is a ticketed event. Graduates will be able to receive up to four (4) tickets. If students need more tickets, contact their Deans office. Diploma & Hooding ceremonies are not ticketed events and graduates are encouraged to invite as many guests as they wish.
Is there a charge for tickets? When/where can I get them?
There is no charge for tickets. Tickets will become available at the box office in early March.
How long will the ceremony take?
Each Diploma & Hooding ceremony will be approximately 60-90 minutes. The Commencement ceremony will be 1.5 – 2 hours
How early should I arrive to get a good seat?
For both, Commencement and School Diploma and Hooding Ceremonies, it is suggested that everyone arrive 45 to 60 minutes prior to start time.
Where should I park?
Parking is available across the entire campus. We suggest that you park in the first available spot you find. Wear comfy shoes, because some lots are located on the opposite of campus from the commencement area. For more information, see Maps and Parking on the commencement website
Is handicapped parking available?
Yes. There are a limited number of handicapped parking spots available on the East side of campus. You are required to have a state issued handicapped placard in order to take advantage of this parking. A shuttle service is also provided for the outlying lots for those who have difficulty walking. If you have handicapped guests please list your needs with your dean's office.
Is handicapped seating available?
Yes. Each venue is ADA accessible. You are encouraged to arrive early to secure seating, as handicapped seating may be limited.
Will there be a commencement video?
At this time the University does not videotape the Diploma and Hooding ceremony.
Is there any place to buy food?
The University will have snack sites around campus before the 1 p.m. Diploma and Hooding ceremonies and receptions immediately thereafter each Diploma and Hooding ceremony. Each snack and reception site will provide food for all Commencement participants and guests. If any participant or guest has food requirements, it is recommended that individuals bring food for themselves on Commencement day.
Is there any place to buy gifts?
After the Commencement morning ceremony there will be flower leis and bouquets of flowers.
Can a family member videotape commencement?
Yes, people are allowed to videotape commencement. In the back of Spanos Center (where handicap seating is) people may set up cameras. But, people need to be flexible as sometimes we need videographers to move for handicap seating.
When should I make hotel reservations?
Hotels located in the vicinity of the University fill very early. We suggest that you make your reservations as early as possible. For a list of hotels, see Local
Places to Stay.
Are graduating students allowed to decorate their cap and gown?
The only decorations students are allowed to wear are honor cords.
What should attending guests wear on commencement day?
For those who attend the morning ceremonies dress comfortably. The mornings usually begin very cool and warm quickly. By the mid-afternoon, temperatures are in the mid-90's to 100. For a current forecast, see The Weather Channel.
Where do I get my graduation pictures?
Chappell Studios is our graduation photographer. Your pictures are available online approximately five days after graduation. You can view and order your pictures from
Chappell Graduation Images. which is listed on the commencement website.
After graduation my family and friends want to have lunch/dinner together. Are there restaurants that will allow big groups?
There are several restaurants in Stockton that have the ability to host your post-graduation events. Make your reservations early as the space goes quickly. For restaurants in the vicinity of Pacific, see Google Maps.
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