Academic regalia of Harvard University

Harvard_regalia

Harvard_University_Doctoral_Gown_and_Hood

Harvard_University_Academic_Hoods

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Academic regalia of Harvard University refers to the traditional attire worn by students, faculty, and officials during formal academic ceremonies such as commencement and convocation. The regalia include gowns, hoods, caps, and other accessories that signify the wearer's academic achievements and affiliations.

History

The tradition of academic regalia at Harvard University dates back to the institution's founding in 1636. The regalia are rooted in the medieval European universities, where scholars wore robes to signify their status and role within the academic community.

Components of the Regalia

Gowns

The gowns worn at Harvard University vary depending on the degree being conferred.

• Bachelor's Gown: The bachelor's gown is a simple black robe with long, pointed sleeves.
• Master's Gown: The master's gown is also black but features oblong sleeves that are open at the wrist.
• Doctoral Gown: The doctoral gown is more elaborate, with velvet panels down the front and three velvet bars on each sleeve. The color of the velvet can vary depending on the field of study.

Hoods

The hood is an important part of the academic regalia, signifying the degree and the institution from which it was awarded. The length and design of the hood vary by degree level.

• Bachelor's Hood: The bachelor's hood is relatively short with a simple design.
• Master's Hood: The master's hood is longer and more elaborate.
• Doctoral Hood: The doctoral hood is the longest and most ornate, featuring a wide velvet trim in a color that represents the field of study and a lining in Harvard's crimson and black colors.

Caps

The traditional cap worn at Harvard is the mortarboard for bachelor's and master's degree recipients. Doctoral recipients often wear a tam, which is a soft, round cap.

• Mortarboard: A square cap with a tassel, typically worn by bachelor's and master's degree recipients.
• Tam: A round, soft cap with a tassel, often worn by doctoral recipients.

Colors and Symbols

The colors and symbols used in Harvard's academic regalia are significant. The primary color is crimson, which is Harvard's official color. The velvet trim on doctoral hoods and gowns can vary in color to represent different fields of study, such as blue for philosophy or green for medicine.

Ceremonial Use

Academic regalia are worn during various formal ceremonies at Harvard University, including:

• Commencement: The annual graduation ceremony where degrees are conferred.
• Convocation: A formal assembly of the university community, often held at the beginning of the academic year.
• Inauguration: The formal installation of a new university president.

Related Pages

• Harvard University
• Commencement
• Convocation
• Inauguration
• Academic regalia