Graduation regalia for a master’s degree represents more than just clothing; it is a visual representation of years of dedication, scholarly achievement, and the transition into a new professional chapter. The specific garments and accessories worn during the ceremony communicate a silent narrative about the graduate’s field of study and academic standing. Understanding the components, history, and proper protocol associated with this academic attire demystifies the ceremony and allows graduates to fully embrace the significance of the moment. This guide provides a detailed look at the elements that constitute the master’s regalia suite.
Deconstructing the Core Components
The foundation of any master’s regalia set is the gown, which differs in design from the simpler undergraduate version. While the fabric and color remain institutional choices, the cut typically features longer sleeves with a closed front, often secured with a button or hook. The most distinctive feature is the oblong sleeve opening, or "liripipe," which hangs vertically at the back. This design element is not merely decorative; it is a traditional marker of the master’s level of scholarship. Completing the ensemble are a flat-topped mortarboard or a traditional Tudor cap, paired with a soft square academic cap that features a pronounced tassel.
The Significance of the Tassel
The tassel is one of the most scrutinized elements of the regalia, serving as the primary indicator of completion. Traditionally, the tassel is worn on the right side of the cap before the degree is conferred, symbolizing the candidate’s status. At the precise moment the degree is awarded, the tassel is moved to the left side, resting on the shoulder, to signify the transition from candidate to graduate. While the silk cord is often school-specific, the color of the tassel itself is rarely standardized by the discipline for master’s degrees, unlike doctoral degrees where gold is common.
The Hood: A Canvas of Academic History
Perhaps the most historically rich component of the regalia is the hood, a garment that traces its lineage back to the practical cloaks worn by medieval scholars. In the modern context, the hood is a key differentiator of academic achievement and institutional prestige. It is lined with the official colors of the university or college that granted the degree, while the exterior fabric represents the field of study. The length of the hood corresponds to the degree level, with master’s hoods being shorter than doctoral versions but longer than bachelor’s attire.
Shell Color: The velvet trim on the hood indicates the academic discipline. For instance, a Master of Science will feature a gold velvet trim, while a Master of Arts will use white.
Linings: The satin or silk lining displays the official colors of the granting institution, often arranged in stripes or patterns specific to the school or department.
Length: The size of the hood is scaled to the degree, ensuring that the regalia maintains a visual hierarchy across undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels.
Color Codes and Material Choices
While the specific design of a gown may be left to the discretion of the institution, the color of the velvet trim on the hood and sometimes the gown follows a near-universal standard established by the Intercollegiate Code. These colors ensure that observers can identify the general field of study of the graduate at a glance. For the master’s level, common disciplines include Business (Drab), Education (Light Blue), and Engineering (Orange). The materials used, typically a synthetic blend or a high-quality polyester, are chosen for durability and a structured appearance that photographs well during the ceremony.
