After Graduation

Degree granted — Barring any holds on records, graduates can expect to receive final transcripts and diplomas approximately one month after grades have been reported. The diploma is mailed to a graduate's legal address, unless otherwise specified to the graduation office, Carver Hall.

All holds must be cleared from academic records before the diploma can be released. Holds include any financial obligations to the university including fees, parking tickets, library fines and telecommunication bills. Any course with a grade of Incomplete or Research in Progress or X must be changed to a letter grade before the degree can be granted. In addition, official transcripts for final credits taken at another four-year institution must be received and posted on the BU transcript.

Diploma cover — For those students not attending the ceremony, a diploma cover may be obtained in the graduation office, Carver Hall, or contact Anita Hakim, graduation coordinator, by e-mail to have a cover mailed.

Graduation photograph — Chappell Graduation Images will e-mail graduates with a proof and cost to purchase the photographs that will be taken as students receive their diploma cover and second off-stage, posed photo. Payment in advance is not necessary in order to view proofs. Call Chappell Studios at 800-247-3435 or visit Web site for assistance.

Transcripts — Official transcripts with degrees noted will be available after mid-January from the Office of the Registrar. All requests for official transcripts must include name, student I.D. number, signature and address for forwarding the transcript. Indicate "hold for degree" on the request, and the official transcript(s) will be mailed after the degree has been granted. There is no fee for transcripts. Transcript request forms are available in the registrar's office or online here.

Second degree — Double majors, with less than 150 total credits earned, will have one degree awarded and the second major acknowledged on the final transcript. Students who are double majors – but earn 150 or more credits toward graduation – are considered dual degree students and are eligible for two diplomas. Graduates who have already earned their first degree, and are admitted as a second degree student, must earn a minimum of 30 additional credits and meet all requirements for the additional program of study for a second degree.

Voter registration cancellation — Expected graduates who are currently registered to vote in Columbia County and will be moving from the area must cancel voter registration in Columbia County and re-register at their new address. The appropriate form is available in libraries and post offices.