Have you ever wondered what that funny hat graduates wear is called? You know, the one that looks like a square with a tassel on top. Well, wonder no more! That hat is actually called a mortarboard, and its origins date back to the medieval period.
The mortarboard gets its name from its resemblance to the tools used by masons to lay bricks and stones. In fact, in the 14th century, graduating students in Europe used to wear hats that looked like actual mason’s tools, complete with a trowel on the top. Over time, the design evolved into the now-familiar square shape with a tassel. Today, the mortarboard is a symbol of achievement and accomplishment, worn by graduates all over the world to signify the culmination of their hard work and dedication.
So, the next time you attend a graduation ceremony, take a moment to appreciate the mortarboards worn by the graduates. It is a timeless tradition that represents the effort and sacrifice that goes into achieving one’s goals. And, of course, it makes for great photo opportunities too!
History of Graduation Attire
Graduation ceremonies have been a longstanding tradition in many countries, dating back to medieval times. However, it wasn’t until the 12th century that universities began to take shape, and with them came academic ceremony. The academic robe or gown can be traced back to the everyday dress of medieval clergy. It was worn by university scholars to acknowledge their membership in the academic community. By the 14th and 15th centuries, the use of academic gowns became more widespread and was commonly seen in academia.
The tradition of graduation caps and hoods began in the 16th century at Oxford and Cambridge Universities in England. The cap, which was initially a skullcap or biretta, went through various iterations before it became the modern-day graduation cap, also known as the “mortarboard.” The term “mortarboard” comes from the similarity between the hat’s shape and the tool that is used by masons to hold mortar.
- In the United States, the graduation cap became more popularized in the late 1800s with the growth of university education.
- The tradition of wearing the cap and gown for graduation took off, and it was eventually adopted by high schools as well.
- The hoods, which are now used to signify a graduate’s academic degree and specific field of study, were originally worn as a way to keep warm in cold, damp lecture halls.
The academic attire that is used today has changed little since its inception in the Middle Ages. It is a way to maintain and celebrate the tradition of academia and acknowledge the accomplishments of graduates.
| Item | Color | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Gown | Black | Academic achievement and excellence |
| Cap | Black | Academic achievement and excellence |
| Hood lining and chevron | Color signifying major field of study | Academic achievement and excellence in a specific field |
As the world of academia continues to evolve, so does academic attire. While there have been some changes, the tradition of wearing academic attire remains constant, and it will undoubtedly continue for generations to come.
Academic Regalia Components
Graduating students are required to wear academic regalia, which commonly encompasses a gown, a hood, and a hat. The components of academic regalia represent the graduate’s level of academic achievement and field of study. The most recognizable component of academic regalia is the graduation hat, which has a special name based on its design.
The Graduation Hat: What is it Called?
- The most common graduation hat is known as the mortarboard. It gets its name from its similarity to a tool used by masons to hold mortar.
- It features a flat, square board with a small, upright tuft or “button” on top. The mortarboard is worn with the board level and the tuft centered on the head, symbolizing the graduate’s intelligence and scholarship.
Other Components of Academic Regalia
In addition to the graduation hat, academic regalia includes a gown and a hood. The gown typically has long, wide, flowing sleeves and is made of a dark-colored material, such as black or navy blue. The material may vary depending on the level of degree and field of study. For example, doctoral gowns are often made of velvet. The gown may also have decorative elements, such as colored piping or velvet panels.
The hood is worn around the neck and drapes down the back. It is made of the same material as the gown and is typically lined with a colored fabric that represents the graduate’s academic discipline. The hood may also have a trim or edging that reflects the graduate’s school colors.
Academic Regalia Components: An Overview
To summarize, academic regalia includes a gown, a hood, and a graduation hat, also known as a mortarboard. Each component represents the graduate’s level of academic achievement and field of study.
| Level of Degree | Gown Style | Hood Color |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s | Standard gown with long, pointed sleeves | Stole in school colors |
| Master’s | Gown with long, closed sleeves and a slit for the arms | Hood in school colors with a velvet trim |
| Doctoral | Velvet gown with bell-shaped sleeves and gold piping | Hood in school colors with a velvet trim and a satin lining in a color that represents the field of study |
Significance of Graduation Cap Colors
Graduation ceremonies are a celebration of academic achievement and are steeped in tradition. One such tradition is the use of graduation caps or mortarboards, as they are commonly called. These caps have a unique design and are characterized by a flattened square with a tassel dangling from its center. But did you ever wonder why graduation caps come in different colors?
- Black – This is the most commonly used color for graduation caps. It symbolizes formality, tradition, and the solemnity of the occasion. Black also signifies the achievement of a degree, which is a major milestone in a student’s life. Often, students will personalize their caps with quotes or decorations to make them stand out.
- Gold/Yellow – This color represents excellence and achievement. Gold is also the color of wisdom and knowledge, making it a fitting choice for graduation ceremonies. It is often used to honor graduates who have achieved exceptional academic performance or for students who have completed a degree in the field of science or engineering.
- Blue – This color represents confidence, stability, and loyalty. Blue is commonly used for graduation caps to symbolize the trust that students have in their education and their journey ahead. It is often used for degrees in business or law, where professionalism and integrity are highly valued.
- Green – This color represents growth, harmony, and balance. Green is used for graduation caps to signify the growth and development that students have undergone throughout their academic journey. It is often used for degrees in education, environmental science, and health, where the emphasis is on nurturing and caring for others and the planet.
- Purple – This color represents royalty, power, and luxury. It is used for graduation caps to signify the prestige and honor that comes with achieving a degree. It is often used for graduates who have completed degrees in the fine arts or humanities, where creativity, imagination, and critical thinking skills are highly valued.
While these colors have become standard in most graduation ceremonies, some schools and universities have their own unique colors to distinguish their alumni from others. However, regardless of the color, graduation caps stand as a visual reminder of the achievements that students have made and the bright future that awaits them.
| Color | Meaning | Commonly Used for |
|---|---|---|
| Black | Formality, tradition | All degrees |
| Gold/Yellow | Excellence, achievement, wisdom | Science, Engineering |
| Blue | Confidence, stability, loyalty | Business, Law |
| Green | Growth, harmony, balance | Education, Environmental Science, Health |
| Purple | Royalty, power, luxury | Fine Arts, Humanities |
Ultimately, the colors of graduation caps are a symbol of accomplishment and a reminder of the journey that students have undertaken to reach this significant milestone in their lives. It is a visual representation of the hard work, dedication, and sacrifice that led them to this momentous occasion.
Top brands for academic regalia
Graduating from college or university is one of the most significant achievements in a student’s life, and the graduation ceremony is a solemn occasion to celebrate this accomplishment. Academic regalia plays an important role in marking this momentous event and is worn by graduates, faculty members, and academic officials. Here, we take a closer look at some of the top brands for academic regalia that you can consider for your graduation.
- Jostens: Founded in 1897, Jostens is popular for its high-quality academic regalia. The company offers a wide range of graduation products, including caps and gowns, academic hoods, stoles, and tassels. Jostens provides customized regalia that matches the colors and style of your school, making it a unique and memorable experience.
- Herff Jones: Herff Jones is a renowned brand known for its high-quality graduation products and exceptional craftsmanship. The company offers a wide range of regalia, including tassels, caps, gowns, and hoods, that is available in different fabrics and colors to match your school’s graduation tradition. Herff Jones also offers an eco-friendly line of regalia made from renewable resources.
- Oak Hall: Oak Hall has been providing academic regalia for more than 170 years, and its experience shows in the quality of its products. The company offers a comprehensive range of regalia customizable for your college or university’s tradition, including doctoral gowns, caps and hoods, and stoles. Oak Hall also offers rental services for those who want to save costs and reduce waste.
Choosing the right academic regalia is an essential aspect of graduation day, and the brands mentioned above guarantee quality, elegance, and tradition. You can choose to buy or rent your regalia from these brands, depending on your budget and preference. Regardless of which brand you choose, your graduation day will be a memorable and unforgettable experience.
Symbolism behind graduation gowns
Graduation gowns, also known as academic regalia, have a rich history and deep meaning behind them. Every aspect of the graduation gown, from the colors to the accessories, carries a symbolic significance. One of the most iconic pieces of the graduation regalia is the graduation cap known as the mortarboard. However, have you ever wondered what is a graduation hat called and what is its symbolism?
- The graduation hat is called a mortarboard, named after the tool used by masons to hold and carry mortar when building masonry structures. Just like the tool, the mortarboard symbolizes the knowledge and skills acquired by graduates during their academic journey.
- The square shape of the mortarboard represents the four corners of the earth, signifying that graduates are equipped to make a positive impact in all parts of the world.
- The tassel on the mortarboard, which is usually black, carries its own symbolism. In some institutions, the tassel is moved from the right side to the left side during the graduation ceremony to signify the graduate’s transition from student to graduate.
In addition to the mortarboard, the other aspects of the graduation regalia also have their own symbolic meanings. Here are some notable examples:
The colors of the gown and hood vary depending on the degree level and field of study. For example, a bachelor’s degree graduate wears a black gown with no trim, an associate degree graduate wears a gown with a black trim, while a doctorate degree graduate wears a gown with colored trim according to their field of study.
The hood worn by graduate students is lined with the color of the university, while the color on the outside of the hood corresponds to the graduate’s major field of study.
| Color | Field of Study |
|---|---|
| White | Arts and Letters |
| Yellow | Science |
| Gold | Social Science |
| Pink | Music |
| Green | Medicine |
| Lilac | Dentistry |
Overall, the graduation gown and its accessories serve as a reminder of the hard work and dedication that graduates have invested in their education. It also signifies their readiness to take on new challenges, whether in further studies or in their chosen profession.
Differences in International Graduation Attire
Graduation ceremonies are one of the most important events in a student’s life. It is the moment when they finally get to reap the rewards of their hardwork and dedication throughout their academic journey. One of the significant things in graduation ceremonies is the attire that graduates wear. While the graduation gown and cap are commonly worn in various countries, some countries add their traditions and twists to their graduation attires. Here are some of the differences in international graduation attire:
- United States of America: The graduation attire in the United States of America typically includes a long dark gown with a cap that is referred to as a mortarboard. The mortarboard has a flat square surface, with a tassel that hangs from its center. Graduates throw their caps in the air after their names are called.
- United Kingdom: In the United Kingdom, graduates wear traditional gowns that vary in length, color, and style depending on the institution’s regulations. The headwear varies as well, with most opting for a mortarboard or Tudor bonnet. However, some schools opt for different headwear, such as John Knox cap or a soft cap.
- Australia: The academic dress of Australian universities is influenced by the British practice and comprises a gown, hood, and headwear. The academic dress’s colors depend on the degree and the institution, with the colors and style varying widely across different institutions.
Aside from the differences in the graduation attire explained above, some countries have other unique practices for graduations. For example, Sweden’s graduation attires include a white suit and top-hat for male students, while female students wear a white skirt and blouse. In contrast, Finnish graduates wear a white hat instead of the traditional mortarboard. In France, students’ attire is often influenced by the degree they attained, with doctoral graduates wearing a green gown, while the rest wear black.
As we can see, the graduation attire differs across various countries, with each country having unique practices and traditions that reflect their culture and history.
Here is a table summarizing some of the different academic dress styles and their corresponding degree types:
| Academic Dress Style | Degree Types |
|---|---|
| Gown, Hood, and Mortarboard | Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees – USA |
| Gown, Hood, and Tudor Bonnet | Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees – UK |
| White Suit and Top-Hat (Male) or White Skirt and Blouse (Female) | All Degrees – Sweden |
Regardless of where you are in the world, graduation is a momentous occasion for all those who experience it. It symbolizes the end of one chapter and the start of another. While the graduation attire may differ in different countries, the feeling of achievement and accomplishment is the same across the world.
Famous figures who wore academic regalia
Wearing academic regalia is a tradition that dates back to the Middle Ages. Today, academic regalia is commonly known as a graduation gown, cap, and hood. It is worn during graduation ceremonies and other academic events. Here are some famous figures who have worn academic regalia:
- Barack Obama – The 44th President of the United States wore academic regalia when he received an honorary degree from the University of Notre Dame in 2009.
- Stephen Hawking – The renowned physicist and author wore academic regalia when he was awarded an honorary Doctor of Science degree from the University of Oxford in 1989.
- Malala Yousafzai – The Pakistani activist and Nobel Peace Prize winner wore academic regalia when she received an honorary degree from the University of Warwick in 2017.
Academic regalia is also worn by faculty members, such as professors and instructors, during graduation ceremonies and other academic events. The colors and styles of the regalia can indicate the degree level of the wearer and the academic discipline they are affiliated with.
Here is a table that shows the different colors and styles of academic regalia, based on the degree level and academic discipline:
| Level of Degree | Color of Gown | Color of Hood | Color of Tassel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Degree | Black | Color of the Academic Discipline or Field of Study | Color of the Academic Discipline or Field of Study |
| Master’s Degree | Black | Color of the Academic Discipline or Field of Study | Black |
| Doctoral Degree | Black | Blue (Arts, Letters, and Humanities); Gold (Science); White (Medical); Dark Blue (Philosophy); Orange (Engineering); Brown (Fine Arts); Light Blue (Education) | Gold |
Regardless of the degree level or academic discipline, wearing academic regalia is a symbol of achievement and a celebration of academic excellence. It is a tradition that will continue for generations to come.
What is a Graduation Hat Called FAQs
1. What is the name of the graduation hat that is commonly worn in the US?
The graduation hat often worn in the US is commonly known as a mortarboard or square academic cap.
2. Why is it called a mortarboard?
The name “mortarboard” comes from the resemblance of the hat to the tool used by masons to hold and apply mortar to bricks.
3. What is the significance of the tassel hanging from the graduation hat?
The tassel that hangs from the graduation hat is a symbol of achievement and accomplishment. It is usually moved from one side of the hat to the other at the conclusion of the graduation ceremony.
4. Do all graduates wear graduation hats?
Not all graduates wear graduation hats, but they are a common tradition in many countries around the world, particularly in the United States.
5. When did the graduation hat become a tradition?
The graduation hat as we know it today became a tradition in the late 19th century and has been a staple of graduation ceremonies ever since.
6. What is the difference between a bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate graduation hat?
The difference between the graduation hats for each degree level is the length and style of the tassel. Bachelor’s hats have a tassel that hangs on the right side, while master’s hats have a tassel that hangs on the left side. Doctorate hats have a unique design, with a longer tassel and a velvet band around the hat.
7. Is the graduation hat only for college graduates?
No, the graduation hat is not just for college graduates. High school and even middle school students sometimes wear graduation hats as well, particularly for special ceremonies such as honors assemblies or commencement exercises.
Closing Thoughts
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about what a graduation hat is called. Whether you’re a graduate or just curious about this important tradition, we hope this article has helped answer your questions. Be sure to come back and visit us for more informative and interesting content in the future.