A Guide to Academic Regalia
You may not know it, but the caps and gowns worn during commencement are full of meaning.
April 29, 2015
From the color of your gown to the length and shape of your sleeves, every detail tells others where you are in your academic journey (whether bachelor, master, or doctor), where you went to school, what discipline you studied, and what recognitions you received.
Here, we offer a visual map to the academic regalia you’ll see during commencement.
Recent Stories
May 06, 2026
A Framework for Advancement and Academic Leadership
Rollins President Brooke Barnett and Jonathan Purvis, Butler University’s vice president for advancement and marketing, co-authored this Inside Higher Ed opinion piece on how philanthropy can help bring an institution’s vision to life.
May 05, 2026
Orlando Sentinel Looks Back on Environmental Issues in Central Florida
Leslie Poole, an associate professor of environmental studies at Rollins College, provided expertise on the history of The Florida Audubon Society for this article, published as part of the Orlando Sentinel’s 150th birthday.
May 04, 2026
Lessons from the Top
This year’s valedictorians share highlights from their time at Rollins, how the College connected them to their purpose, and what’s next in their meaningful lives and productive careers.