Types of Caps for Doctoral Graduates
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Graduating with a doctoral degree is one of the greatest academic accomplishments you can achieve. Traditionally, graduation attire was worn at educational institutions as a sign of status by those admitted into degree programs or by professors. Today, these traditional ensembles are no longer worn around campus. Rather, they are worn only at graduation ceremonies. Each doctoral graduation outfit is distinctive so it properly represents the college of the wearer. This type of ensemble generally consists of a gown, or “robe,” a separate hood, and a cap. Doctoral degree holders are usually in top university positions, such as department heads, deans, presidents, and professors. To highlight their great academic achievements, doctoral graduation attire is the most distinctive of all. Doctoral robes are typically black and prominently feature a colorful hood. The outside shell of the hood is black while the lining is a distinctive color that represents the specific degree program. Doctoral gowns are similar to other graduation gowns worn by bachelor and master graduates. However, doctoral graduation robes feature additional elements, such as three colored velvet bands on the sleeves and a colored velvet facing running down the front of the gown. The color of this velvet accent designates the graduate’s program of study. For example, a PhD graduate in theology would wear a black gown with dark blue velvet trim, while a Doctor of Theology (Th.D.) would wear a black gown with scarlet trim. Doctoral degree holders have two options when it comes to graduation caps: • Tams – The tam is made of black velvet and is specifically reserved for those who hold a doctoral degree. Tams can come in several shapes and feature 4, 6, or 8 sides. The four-sided mortarboard-shaped tam is the most common. Similarly to traditional graduation caps worn by other graduates, the tam also features a tassel. • Beefeaters – This special cap, also known as a “Tudor Bonnet,” is a variation of the traditional tam and is made of velvet. It typically matches the gown it is worn with, or its velvet accent trim. The brim of the cap is stiff and accented with a fixed gold bullion or metallic tassel. This special type of cap is usually reserved for the highest ranking official presiding over graduation. Where Can I Get Graduation Apparel for Doctorate Graduates? If you are looking for quality graduation apparel for doctorate graduates, such as velvet accented robes, tams, and beefeaters, look no further than Acadima. We serve students and staff in schools worldwide. We will provide you with the highest quality graduation apparel around.