Some milestones are more than memories. A new chapter of tradition begins when you become an alumni of the University of South Carolina.
When: Wednesday, Nov. 18, 4–6 p.m. (Rain date: Friday, Nov. 20)
Where: Greene Street, Davis Field and Russell House Patio
Close your time as a student just as it began — by gathering with fellow classmates one last time. Join the Class of 2020 for Last Night Carolina, an evening festival celebrating your milestone accomplishment! Grab your face covering and head toward the center of campus for outdoor fun including live music by DJ iAM, cake, hot cider and hot chocolate, photo ops, special guests and celebratory fireworks. Park free in the Bull Street Garage.
Capacity is limited due to social distancing and COVID-19 protocols. Graduates should R.S.V.P. through Garnet Gate.
When: Sunday, Dec. 13 at 3 p.m.
The University of South Carolina will host a virtual ceremony for the winter graduation candidates on Sunday, Dec. 13, 2020.
The decision not to host a large indoor event in December is based on advice from public health experts. As you know, large inside group events and extended family travel create a greater risk for community spread. In addition, the strong potential for a resurgence of the COVID-19 virus in late fall/early winter is one reason the university altered this semester's academic calendar to end in-person classes by Thanksgiving.
As you ready for the big day, celebrate your milestone with special photo opportunities on campus, digital stickers and frames on social, and get a leg up with decorations for your celebrations.
Commencement exercises are held for graduation candidates in both May and December each year. The president of the University of South Carolina presides over the official ceremonies, which include South Carolina’s time-honored tradition of recognizing each degree candidate by name.
Separate commencement exercises are held for Baccalaureate, Masters and Professional candidates, Doctoral candidates, and candidates from the School of Law and School of Medicine. During the ceremonies, candidates are personally congratulated for their accomplishment by the dean of the graduate’s college or school.
Your undergraduate graduation is a special day you can share with family. For easier travel and parking during commencement, the university provides a free shuttle service from on-campus garages to commencement sites.
The Graduate School, School of Medicine and School of Law hold commencement ceremonies. Unique ceremonies for each school are held at locations including the Colonial Life Arena, Koger Center for the Arts, and the historic Horseshoe. These candidates can access ceremony specifics from their respective schools.