Frequently Asked Questions


Where is the graduation ceremony located?

Chicoine Center

Where do I park for graduation?
  • Chadron State College map
  • There is parking to the west and south of the Chicoine Center entrance. There is also parking available to the North of Armstrong Gymnasium. To get to the Chicoine Center, enter the College at Memorial Hall (10th and Main), proceed south past the Nelson Physical Activity Center, turn east, and the Chicoine Center is past the football stadium. To get to Armstrong Gymnasium, enter the College at Memorial Hall (10th and Main), proceed south, turn east just past the Sheaman Heating Plant onto W 12th Street and continue past the football stadium. Armstrong Gymnasium is on the south side of the street with parking on the north side.
What time is the ceremony?
  • Winter (December) Commencement: 2:00 p.m.on the last Friday of the semester
  • Spring (May) Commencement: 10:00 a.m. the Saturday following the final day of the semester
Is there a graduation rehearsal?
  • Yes.  Winter rehearsal is at 11 a.m. the day of the ceremony. Spring rehearsal is at 3 p.m. the Friday before the ceremony.
  • Rehearsal is not mandatory; however, it is helpful.
  • Do not wear academic regalia for rehearsal
What time do the doors open for graduation?
  • The doors will be open one hour prior to the start of the ceremony
Is there handicapped seating?
  • No, seating is general admission. However, if you are needing handicapped accessible seating, please see an usher upon entrance and they will assist you.
Are tickets required to attend the ceremony?
  • No
What time do I need to be at graduation (lineup)?
  • 45 minutes prior to the ceremony
Where do I go for graduation lineup?
  • Armstrong Gymnasium (attached to the Chicoine Center)
Will my major/endorsement/minor be listed on my diploma?
  • No, it will only have the degree (Bachelor of Arts, Master of Education, etc.). The transcript will have the degree, major, endorsement, minor, etc.
Where will I get my honors medal?
  • For undergraduate students graduating with academic honors of Summa Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, or Cum Laude, they will be available at graduation lineup (or Ivy Day for spring commencement). All other honors ropes or medals are available through the organizations or academic departments.
When will my degree be posted to my transcript?
  • As long as all requirements are completed, degrees will be posted two weeks after graduation. Transcripts that are placed on hold until degrees are posted will be released on or before this date.
Am I required to attend the commencement ceremony?
  • No, however graduates are encouraged to attend.
Can I decorate my mortarboard (cap)

Only the flat top area of the mortarboard may be decorated.  Decorations must lay flat on the surface of the cap and cannot extend beyond the border of the cap or fall below the perimeter.  Cap decorations that are motivated by animosity against a person or group because of race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender, disability, national origin, or which infringe on the rights and freedoms of others will not be tolerated.  Decorations may not include the following:

  • Profanity
  • Symbols for or references to alcohol or controlled substances
  • Bows, ribbons, or tulle that do not lay flat on the cap
  • Three dimensional objects
  • Flowers or flower crowns
  • Light objects

Note:  This is not an exhaustive list and any decoration or message deemed inappropriate or determined to pose a safety risk or distraction will not be permitted.  The graduate will be asked to purchase a new, undecorated cap if these guidelines are not followed.  For questions concerning these guidelines, please email cscrecords@dos5.net

If I do not attend the ceremony, when will I receive my diploma?
  • Diplomas will be mailed approximately 4-6 weeks after graduation.  It may take a little longer after the December ceremony due to the campus holiday closure.
If I attended the ceremony, when will I receive my "real" diploma?
  • All graduates will receive a diploma cover during the graduation ceremony.  
  • Diplomas will be mailed approximately 4-6 weeks after graduation.  It may take a little longer after the December ceremony due to the campus holiday closure.
Can I view the ceremony at a later date?
Is there a reception after the ceremony?
  • After the ceremony, the President invites all graduates along with their friends and family to attend a reception on the mezzanine of the Chicoine Center.
Are photos available of the graduates?

Please visit http://www.ceremonyphotos.com/events-proofs to view the commencement photographs. All ceremony participants will receive an email and link to view their proofs taken during the commencement ceremony and events. There is no obligation to purchase.

Any questions about commencement photography can be addressed to service@ceremonyphotos.com.