Spring 2025 Commencement
Spring 2025 Commencement
Beginning in May 2025, Colorado State University will host a single University-wide commencement ceremony each spring at Canvas Stadium. Additionally, departments or academic units will host their own recognition events during which graduates’ names will be read and diploma covers issued.
CSU invites and encourages students to participate in both the University-wide commencement and their department recognition ceremony. However, neither event is required for a student to obtain their degree.
The University-wide ceremony will feature a prominent commencement speaker to inspire graduates and will allow more Rams to celebrate together on a day of spirited tradition and celebration, aligning with commencement practices at other leading universities. Departmental/unit events will offer a more intimate setting where students, families and faculty and staff can mingle and share in our grads’ achievements.
For degree completion in the listed semester below, students are encouraged to participate in the corresponding commencement:
Summer 2025 degree completion ⟩ Spring 2025 commencement
Fall 2025 degree completion ⟩ Spring 2026 commencement
If a student wishes to walk in a spring commencement different than recommended, they may contact their home department.
In the coming months, more information will be shared on this page regarding Spring 2025 commencement.
Fall 2024 Graduates
There will be no changes to the December 2024 ceremonies. December 2024 graduates may choose to participate in the December 2024 ceremony or the Spring 2025 ceremony. These will be the final college-based ceremonies before CSU transitions to the new format.
Spring and Summer 2025 Graduates
The Spring 2025 ceremony will welcome students completing their degree requirements in Spring 2025 and Summer 2025.
Friday, May 16, 2025
Location: Canvas Stadium, Field and Concourse
Frequently Asked Questions
We realize with the announcement that CSU is moving to a new commencement model in Spring 2025, our community will have many questions. The below FAQ list will be updated with responses to common questions we are receiving as information from our planning process becomes available.
Will there be any changes to the Fall 2024 ceremony?
No, there are no changes to 2024 commencement ceremonies. Spring 2024 and Fall 2024 ceremonies will continue in their existing format, which consists of colleges holding individual graduation ceremonies in Moby Arena.
Why is CSU making this change?
Having one university-wide commencement creates a shared experience for all CSU graduates, while also offering the opportunity for graduates and families to connect directly with the faculty from their specific area of study at the recognition ceremonies. This change to commencement elevates the experience for graduates and their guests and establishes new traditions that will enhance the student experience at CSU.
What is the difference between the commencement ceremony and recognition ceremonies?
Beginning Spring 2025, the CSU commencement ceremony will be a university-wide ceremony in which students of all degree types, from all colleges and schools, participate at the same time. Degrees will be collectively conferred upon graduating students at this ceremony.
Recognition ceremonies will be celebrations of individual student achievement that complement the university-wide commencement ceremony. While each recognition event may be different in form and structure, reflecting the personality of the department(s), during these events graduating students’ names will be read and students will receive their diploma covers.
Are students required to participate in the all-University commencement and their department recognition ceremony?
CSU invites and encourages students to participate in both the all-University commencement and their department recognition ceremony. However, neither event is required for a student to obtain their degree.
Which event(s) should families and guests attend?
Families and guests are invited to participate in both ceremonies, noting that space at the commencement ceremony may be limited.
Will graduate and undergraduate students participate in the University-wide ceremony?
Yes. Both graduate and undergraduate students will be invited to participate in the University-wide commencement. Students will also be invited to participate in relevant recognition events.
When will the schedule of Spring 2025 events be available?
CSU is working with the campus community to develop the framework for Spring 2025 Commencement Weekend. A preliminary schedule outlining department ceremonies and the all-University ceremony will be released in early 2025.