Collection: University & College Graduation Hoods - Academic Hoods

University & College Graduation Hoods for Academic Regalia: Significance and Differentiation

Graduation hoods are an integral component of academic regalia, which are the traditional clothing worn by students and faculty during graduation ceremonies. These regalia have evolved from the medieval robes worn by scholars and clergy, and they carry various symbolic elements that represent the wearer's level of academic achievement and the institution they are affiliated with. Graduation hoods specifically play a significant role in indicating the degree level and field of study of the individual receiving the degree.

Significance: Graduation hoods have several layers of symbolism attached to them:

1. Degree Level: The type and design of the hood indicate the degree level being conferred - bachelor's, master's, or doctorate. The length of the hood, the width of the velvet border, and the colors of the lining signify these differences.

2. Field of Study: The color of the hood's lining and the trim on the hood's exterior represent the academic discipline or field of study. Different academic disciplines are assigned specific colors according to a standardized code.

3. Institutional Identity: The color and design of the hood's shell fabric (outer fabric) often correspond to the institution's official colors. This helps in identifying the institution from which the graduate is receiving their degree.

4. Prestige and Achievement: Wearing academic regalia, including the graduation hood, symbolizes the successful completion of a significant academic journey. It serves as a visual representation of the wearer's hard work, dedication, and scholarly accomplishments.

Differentiation: The differentiation of graduation hoods for bachelor's, master's, and doctorate degrees lies primarily in their design, length, and colors:

1. Bachelor's Hood: The bachelor's hood is the simplest of the three, with a smaller size and a shorter length. It typically has no additional velvet trim or elaborate detailing. The color of the hood's lining usually represents the institution's colors.

2. Master's Hood: The master's hood is longer than the bachelor's hood and often includes a velvet trim along the edges. The color of the hood's lining indicates the field of study, while the shell fabric's color corresponds to the institution.

3. Doctoral Hood: The doctoral hood is the most ornate and distinctive. It features a significant amount of velvet trim, and the width of the velvet indicates the type of doctorate. The hood is often more voluminous and elaborate, reflecting the highest level of academic achievement. As with the other hoods, the colors of the lining and shell fabric have specific meanings.

In summary, graduation hoods are an essential part of academic regalia that carry layers of symbolism related to the degree level, field of study, institutional identity, and the wearer's scholarly accomplishments. The variations in design, length, and color help differentiate between different degree levels and academic disciplines, making them a significant visual representation of the wearer's educational journey and achievement.