Robes
All academic robes can be collected from our official robemakers Phelan Conan at the lower level of The Venue in The U Building. Here there is a staggered staircase with 16 steps down to the lower floor where the robes are on display. The Venue is fully accessible and there is a lift available if required. Just let a member of the University Events Team know and we will give you access to the lift.
It can get very busy in this area on graduation day, so if you do not like crowds, it is advisable to collect your robes the day before or email graduation@dcu.ie if you have specific needs that we can help with.
Guest Tickets
- All graduates are allocated two guest tickets each for their graduation ceremony, including doctoral graduates (PhD, EdD, DPsych and DProfElite)
- Tickets can be collected at the Ticket Desk (pictured) at The Venue in The U Building after you collect your academic robes
- Please have your student ID ready for identification
- The University Events Team will provide assistance on the day should you require it. Email us at graduation@dcu.ie for any support
Photographs
Lafayette Photography, our official photography supplier, are situated at The Hive in The U Building. The Hive is a fully accessible area where you can get professional individual and family portraits taken - it is advisable to pre-book in advance at lafayette.ie/graduation/book.
It’s best to communicate in advance with the photographer about any sensory sensitivities or specific needs, such as needing a quiet space or avoiding flash photography.
Graduation Ceremony
Three ceremonies will take place at the Mahony Hall inside The Helix each day. Each ceremony usually lasts approximately 1.5 - 2 hours, depending on the size of the classes, the length of the speeches and whether an honorary conferring is taking place. The Helix is fully accessible - please let us know if you require any assistance on the day by emailing graduation@dcu.ie.
Here are the most common questions asked:
➔ Where will I be sitting during the graduation ceremony?
All graduates will sit on tiered seats with their classmates - you will not be sitting with your two guests. If you would like to sit on the ground floor, where there are no steps, email us at graduation@dcu.ie and we can arrange this.
➔ Where do I go when I arrive at The Helix?
All graduates must check in with the University Events Team on the first floor. You can access the first floor via stairs at the front of the foyer, or there is a lift situated at the back.
Staff volunteers will assist graduates in finding their designated check-in location. After you are checked in, you will be assigned your seat number, given a convocation booklet and shown where to sit.
➔ How will I know when it’s my turn to go on stage and receive my parchment?
All graduate names will be called out in alphabetical order by degree / diploma programme. Follow the instructions of the staff volunteers at the ceremony, who will direct you to the side aisle and help you line up.
➔ Is it difficult to access the stage in The Helix?
There are five steps on either side of the stage - you will need to walk up and down these steps before and after receiving your parchment. There is a handrail at the steps, but if you require assistance accessing the stage or would rather have step-free access to the stage, please email us at graduation@dcu.ie, and we will arrange this.
➔ Is there loud music, flashing lights, etc?
Loud music is played at the beginning and end of the ceremony, and there is intermittent clapping throughout the graduation. When you have your photo taken on stage after receiving your parchment, expect to see a flash from the photographer’s camera.
➔ Can I wear noise-cancelling headphones or earplugs?
Yes! Earplugs may be more convenient, so you can keep your cap on.
➔ Is there a sensory-friendly area or quiet space?
Absolutely! A designated quiet space is situated on the ground floor of The Helix. This quiet area will be clearly signposted on the day, or if in doubt, please approach any member of the University Events Team who will be happy to guide you there.
➔ What is the dress code?
It is mandatory to wear the correct academic robes at your graduation. All graduates must wear the epitoge or hood of the qualification they are to receive, and it must be visible as you cross the stage. Remember, while comfort is key, it is advised to dress smartly and appropriately for the occasion.
Refreshments
After the graduation ceremony, light refreshments will be served in The Helix foyer. This includes tea/ coffee and an assortment of sweet treats. It can get quite noisy and busy here after the ceremony as graduates and their guests mingle. Please feel free to avail of our quiet area at any time.
Information Desk
The Information Desk is situated on the ground floor of The Helix. The University Events Team will be on hand here all day to answer any questions you or your family may have.
DCU Alumni
Make sure to pop over to the DCU Alumni desks at The Venue in The U Building to register your details and become a member of our alumni global community.
Medical Aid
There will be a medic on site each day. They will be located on the ground floor of The Helix, to the right of the café. For safety reasons, we kindly ask that all children are supervised by a parent or guardian at all times.
Ask For Help
If you need any assistance on the day, please ask any of the University Events Team or staff volunteers - look out for our lanyards with yellow badges. There will be numerous Student Ambassadors offering support on campus too - they will be wearing blue DCU-branded jackets.
