Congratulations to the Graduating Class of 2026!
University of Bridgeport celebrates our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral candidates during our annual Commencement ceremony at the premier outdoor amphitheater in downtown Bridgeport. Join thousands of family members, faculty, alumni, and distinguished guests in honoring your achievements.
Order of Events
Commencement Day Schedule
Plan your arrival and guest seating carefully to ensure a seamless ceremony.
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Next deadline
8:00 AM
Graduate Arrival & Robing
Graduates report to the designated staging concourse at Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater in full cap, gown, and academic hood.
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8:30 AM
Guest Gates Open
Amphitheater gates open for ticketed guests. General admission seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
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9:30 AM
Academic Processional
Faculty, trustees, deans, and the graduating class march into the arena led by the University Mace and President.
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10:00 AM
Conferral of Degrees
Keynote address, student speaker remarks, hooding of doctoral candidates, and individual presentation of degree diplomas.
Essential Gateways
Next Steps for Candidates & Guests
Complete your requirements, order regalia, and explore past ceremonies.
Pre-Certification
Graduation Requirements & Regalia
Registrar pre-certification deadlines, graduation fees, cap and gown orders through Jostens, and honor cord criteria.
Review Requirements
Livestream & Video
Ceremony Archives & Livestreams
Relive the magic of past graduations. Watch commencement video recordings and download commemorative program booklets.
Watch Previous Ceremonies
Accommodations
Accessibility & Guest Services
Wheelchair seating, ASL interpreters, drop-off passes, and hotel accommodations for traveling families.
Accessibility Info
Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater Guidelines
Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater is located at 500 Broad Street, Bridgeport, CT 06604, directly accessible from I-95 and Route 8/25, and within walking distance of the Bridgeport Metro-North Train Station.
Please review amphitheater security regulations in advance to ensure smooth entry for all guests.
- Clear bag policy strictly enforced (clear bags under 12″ x 6″ x 12″ or small clutches)
- All guests, including children aged 2 and older, must have a valid commencement ticket
- Designated ADA accessible wheelchair platforms and companion seating available
- Free parking available in designated downtown arena parking surface lots and garages
How many guest tickets does each graduate receive?
Each eligible graduate who completes the commencement registration portal by the deadline receives up to 5 complimentary guest tickets. An announcement regarding lottery tickets for additional guests will be communicated via UB student email.
Will the ceremony be live-streamed for family members unable to travel?
Yes! The entire Commencement ceremony will be broadcast live in high definition on the University of Bridgeport website and YouTube channel, with live captions enabled for international and remote family members.
When do graduates receive their actual diplomas?
During the ceremony, graduates receive a commemorative UB diploma cover. Official printed diplomas are verified and mailed to the graduate’s permanent home address by the Registrar’s Office within 6 to 8 weeks after all final grades are certified.
Commencement Planning Committee
Questions regarding graduation eligibility, ticketing, regalia, or special arrangements.