Commencement
Commencement is a time to come together in celebration—honoring the achievements, perseverance, and promise of Drake University’s graduating students. It’s a moment shared with families, friends, faculty, and the wider Bulldog community as graduates step boldly into new opportunities and next chapters.
Information for
Find ceremony schedules, important dates, and key details for graduates, guests, marshals, and campus partners, along with guidance to help everyone plan for Commencement Weekend and take part in this meaningful celebration.
2026 Weekend Schedule
CPHS Doctoral Hooding and Ceremony - Saturday, May 16th, 3:00 p.m.
All participants should check in by 2:15 p.m. in the Bell Center gym. Further details for this event will be distributed via email from the College of Pharmacy. Questions may be directed to the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences Dean's Office at 271-3018.
Undergraduate Students - Sunday, May 17th, 10:00 a.m.
The 156th Commencement Ceremony for Undergraduate Degree Recipients – Approximate ceremony length is two hours. Students check in at the Bell Center gym by 9:15 a.m. Knapp Center doors will open at 8:30 a.m. Instructions and announcements for the processional and the recessional will be at 9:30 a.m.
Graduate Students - Sunday, May 17th, 2:00 p.m.
The 156th Commencement Ceremony for Graduate and Doctoral Degree Recipients – Approximate ceremony length is one and a half hours. Students check in at the Bell Center gym by 1:15 p.m. Instructions and announcements for the processional and the recessional will be at 1:30 p.m.
Law School - Saturday, May 16th, 7:00 p.m.
Students will line up in the Law School at 6:00 p.m. Processional begins at 6:45 p.m. Knapp Center opens for guests at 6:00 p.m.
Commencement Programs
Explore the official Commencement Programs to see the order of ceremonies, featured speakers, and the names of graduates being recognized. The program serves as a lasting record of this milestone and a guide for Commencement Weekend.
Commencement Photography
The Grad Team (external vendor) will take a complimentary photo of each graduate immediately after crossing the stage at the ceremony. (No obligation to purchase.)
Graduates, who have provided a valid email, will receive a link from the Grad Team to view their photo following the ceremony.