Common concerns: FAQ by parents

Program and graduation analysis

What is a degree audit?

A degree audit is the process used to determine if all University degree requirements have been met so the student is eligible to graduate.

How can I confirm if my student is on the graduation list?

We cannot release that information according to the Family Educational Rights Privacy Act

When is my student's graduation ceremony?

There are 3 commencements each year: December for fall semester, April for spring semester and June for summer I and summer II sessions of each year. Each college is assigned a ceremony time.  What time your student graduates depends on which college they are graduating from. Prospective graduates receive this information in the mail at their local addresses prior to each graduation. Check the commencement website, www.wmich.edu/commencement , for specific dates.

How do you order announcements, cap and gown?

Regalia and announcements are ordered through the WMU Bookstore. Graduating students will receive information on GRADFEST included with commencement information through the mail or you can call 269 387-3932.

How many guests are allowed to attend the graduation ceremony?

Reservations are required for each ceremony. Approximately 6 to 8 weeks before commencement, each prospective graduate is mailed a packet of information outlining ticket reservations, cap and gown, and ceremony schedules. The information packet is directed to the student's Kalamazoo area address.

Commencement arrangements fluctuate from semester to semester based on the number of candidates for graduation.

How long does the ceremony last?

Each ceremony lasts approximately 1.5 hours.

Will my student receive their diploma at the ceremony?

No. The diploma is sent through the mail upon completion of a final review of the degree requirements. Because the diploma is an engraved document, the printing and mailing require at least 10 weeks to complete.

Students who are receiving their doctoral degrees will receive their diplomas at the ceremony.

My student is receiving two diplomas, do we have to attend two separate ceremonies?

No. Each ceremony is very similar. The differences may be the speakers and the college faculty who attend. The diplomas will be mailed to the student's address.

Where are the commencement ceremonies held?

In Miller Auditorium.

How do we get to Miller Auditorium?

From I-94 East or West

1. Take I-94 to U.S. 131.
2. Take U.S. 131 North to the Stadium Drive exit.
3. Take the first Stadium Drive Exit (East).
4. Continue on Stadium Dr. to 4th traffic signal (Howard St.).
5. Turn left on Howard, cross the railroad tracks and. . .
6.   . . . immediately turn right on VandeGeissen Road.
7. Proceed up the hill to the stop sign (Western Avenue).
8. Turn left on Western Avenue and proceed to the stop sign.
9. Turn right to access Miller Auditorium parking lots and the parking ramp.

From U.S. 131 North or South

1. Take U.S. 131 to Stadium Drive east.
2. Follow steps 3 through 9 above

 

My parents want to attend their grandchild's graduation, but my mother is in a wheelchair. Are there accommodations for this?

Yes, please contact Miller Auditorium at 269 387-2300.