Students from the School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA) who earn their degrees in August or December 2026 are invited to participate in the University of Pittsburgh's Winter Commencement Ceremonies. For the first time, Pitt will hold two separate events to celebrate these graduates: a University-wide commencement ceremony for those earning their bachelor's and master's degrees and a dedicated doctoral hooding ceremony.
Event Details
Doctoral Hooding Ceremony
Wednesday, December 9, 2026 | 4 p.m. | Victory Heights Arena
Celebrating students earning doctoral degrees (both professional doctoral degrees and PhD degrees) between May and December 2026.
For additional information visit: Doctoral Hooding Ceremony | Commencement
University-wide Commencement Ceremony
Sunday, December 13, 2026 | 3 p.m. | Petersen Events Center
Celebrating students earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees in August 2026 and December 2026.
For additional information visit: Commencement Ceremony | Commencement
Learn more about the changes to December Commencement here.
SPIA 2027 Spring Commencement
The SPIA 2027 Spring Commencement Ceremony will be held on Friday, April 30, 2027 at Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall and Museum. Additional information and a link to the event live stream will be available in the spring.
Additional Resources and Events
Graduating students can visit the main Pitt events website at www.commencement.pitt.edu for more University-wide commencement resources. Check back for relevant information as it is updated. Please tag us in your shares #PittSPIA or @pitt_spia - we want to celebrate with you!