Convocation

No, graduating studens do not need to register for the SSW Convocation Ceremony. We have internal behind-the-scenes processes that allow us to be prepared for every graduating student to participate in the ceremony (although participation is not required). See you there! 

Accommodation requests can be requested here: https://umbforms.wufoo.com/forms/spywqnt1cgu08v/ 

Please submit requests no later than May 1, 2026

Convocation is a time of excitement and anticipation for many.  University of Maryland Baltimore prides itself on exemplifying core values of respect and integrity, innovation and discovery, well-being and sustainability, and equity and justice.  We believe strongly that our students, faculty, and staff will uphold these values on University property, as well as when representing the institution at offsite locations.   

For the safety and enjoyment of our graduates, faculty, staff and guests, please review and adhere to the convocation expectations and safety guidelines below. 

• Arrive on time for convocation wearing the appropriate regalia. Decorated graduation caps are permitted.  However, please be considerate of offensive language, sayings, or images.   
• Refrain from disruptive behavior that can prevent others from celebrating.  Disruptive behavior includes:
  • Holding up signs that will block others from seeing and participating in the ceremony.   
  • Blocking access to egress (doors, walkways, stairs, etc.).
  • Interfering or refusing to comply with University officials and/or law enforcement, including directions to leave prohibited areas.  
  • Exceeding noise levels (yelling, booing, horns, bells, etc.) that will disrupt convocation activities and the rights and beliefs of other students, faculty, staff and guests.
  • Creating the threat of physical harm to property or persons, or invading the personal space of students, faculty, staff, or guests.   
  • Holding up signs that will block others from seeing and participating in the ceremony. Per the event venue’s policy, signs are prohibited. 

• Comply with the University of Maryland School of Social Work Community Expectations, emphasizing the value of diversity, and the prioritization of social justice, anti-racism and anti-oppression.  

Academic convocations are solemn and sacred affairs.  By adhering to these guidelines, you help us to ensure a memorable celebration of the accomplishments of students, faculty, and staff.  We look forward to celebrating the incredible accomplishments of our students earning their MSW.   

MAY (SPRING) GRADUATES:

Deadline to file an Application for Diploma is February 13, 2026.

JULY (SUMMER) GRADUATES:

Deadline to file an Application for Diploma is June 26, 2026.

Applications open March 27th, 2026

Filing a Graduation Application is mandatory, please so here.

For questions regarding the process, please contact:

Office of the Registrar

601 W. Lombard Street, Suite 240

Baltimore, MD 21201

410-706-7480

410-706-4053 (fax)

registrar@umaryland.edu

www.umaryland.edu/registrar

Regalia Ordering Information

Updated 2/4/26: We are currently awaiting information from the Seven Scholars Bookstore for information on when graduates will be able to purchase regalia. More to come ASAP! 

For more information, please visit the bookstore at umb.bncollege.com or email the store directly at sm639@bncollege.com.

Diplomas will be mailed to the graduate's address of record is SURFS.

Graduates and their guests do not need tickets for graduation. If you have a large party, please encourage them to arrive early so that they may be seated together. 

The event will also be livestreamed with a link to follow in May 2026. 

Towson has plentiful and free parking, although the parking that is closest will fill up early. Guests who require disability parking should display their hangtag to utilize disability parking. 

See additional here. 

If you have marked your name, major, attendance or degree as Confidential on the Directory Options in SURFS, your name will not appear in any campus Commencement publications. If that’s not what you want, you need to change the settings before April 30.

We can’t verify your attendance or graduation for future employers without your written consent if your name, major, attendance or degree are marked confidential.

To change confidentiality settings for directory information, logon to Surfs and go to the Personal Information menu and click on Update Directory Options

If your name is sometimes mispronounced, please consider submitting an audio file so that we can practice ahead of time.

UMSSW coordinates a number of end-of-year celebrations and events leading up to and after graduation, highlighting the accomplishments of students, faculty and staff.  End of year celebrations are open to all students and others regardless of identity or background. 

Lavender Celebration Date TBD
Lavender Celebration is an annual ceremony conducted on numerous campuses to honor lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and ally students to acknowledge their achievements and contributions to the University.

First Gen Celebration 5/9/26
A celebration honoring students who identify as a First-Generation Graduate.  First-generation students are often defined as those whose parents or guardians did not complete a four-year degree.  Learn more information about the First-Generation Student Success Program (FGSP). 

Doctoral Hooding Ceremony (PhD) 5/20/2026 @ 4pm 
The Graduate School will host a hooding ceremony for all UMB PhD graduates from Summer 2024, Fall 2024, and Spring 2024.  PhD graduates, mentors and guests can request tickets here.   

SSW Student Leadership Coalition (SLC) Date TBD
A small, intimate gathering specifically for incoming and outgoing SGA executive board members.  

All UMB Convocation Ceremonies will be forthcoming