Graduation

The graduation ceremony at Carlow College marks a significant milestone in the academic calendar, celebrating the remarkable achievements of our graduates.

This event brings together our community to honour the hard work and dedication of our students, while also recognising the invaluable support of their family, friends, and the Carlow College staff. It’s a time for joy and reflection as we acknowledge the journey that has led to this occasion.

Carlow College is pleased to host an annual graduation ceremony for all of our graduates each year. Remember to RSVP on your email invite. Congratulations on reaching this significant milestone and graduating with your class! Below, you’ll find important information and FAQs to help you prepare for your special day.

What to Expect on the Day

Your graduation will take place at 2:00 PM in Carlow Cathedral, located beside the College. Here’s what to expect throughout the day to ensure everything runs smoothly:

Arrival and Gown Collection
Graduates are requested to arrive at Carlow College between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM on 22nd November. Gown collection will be available from Philosophy Hall/Iris Murdoch, and garbing will take place in Barry Hall. Please note that, to facilitate the ceremony, the doors to both Philosophy/Iris Murdoch and Barry Hall will close at 1:15 PM. Gowns must be collected and students fully garbed by 1:30 PM. To streamline this process, only graduates will be allowed into the garbing centre.

Photography
Professional photographers will be available in a designated room with graduation backgrounds for those who wish to capture this special moment.

Food and Refreshments
Food and drinks will be available for guests in the Dining Hall while the graduates prepare.

Procession
Once garbed, graduates must be ready to line up for the procession at 1.30pm, organised by programme and then in alphabetical order. The procession will lead from Carlow College to Carlow Cathedral, where guests will already be seated.

Graduation Ceremony
The graduation ceremony will begin at 2:00 PM, featuring speakers and the conferral of certificates. Each graduate’s name will be called by the College Registrar, Dr Margaret Murphy, in the order of the programme and in alphabetical order by class. You will receive your certificate from the College President, Fr. Conn Ó Maoldhomhnaigh.

Guests

Each graduate is allowed to bring two guests to the ceremony in the Cathedral, and tickets must be booked in advance. A link for ticket reservations will be provided once invitations are sent to graduates via email. If you have additional guests, Carlow College will be live-streaming the ceremony in Cobden Hall for overflow attendees.

Accessibility

Carlow College is committed to ensuring that the graduation ceremony is accessible for all. For guests with mobility needs, there is wheelchair access to the main hall of the college via the staff car park. If you or your guests need any additional assistance on the day, please don’t hesitate to inform us in advance so we can accommodate your needs.

FAQs

Why have I been invited to graduation if I’m still completing my undergraduate degree?

Some of our programmes offer both a Level 7 (BA) and a Level 8 (BA Honours) degree. You’ve been invited to the graduation because you’ve completed your Level 7 studies and are now in the process of completing your Level 8

Can I bring more than two guests?

Only two guests per graduate is allowed in the Cathedral during the ceremony. If we have extra space in the Cathedral we will try include some extra guests, however this is not a guarantee. additional guests, Carlow College will be live-streaming the ceremony in Cobden Hall for overflow attendees additional guests can watch the ceremony from here.