The Commencement Ceremony is a formal finale to achieving academic success and earning a university degree. The ceremony is based on 800 years of tradition and is composed of a processional, introductions, awards, speakers and a recessional. It is a dignified and fulfilling ceremony for both the graduates and those in attendance.

• The processional, led by a faculty marshal, marches into the stadium/outdoor theatre displaying a colorful parade of regalia for families and visitors to enjoy.
• On arrival at their seats, the graduates remain standing until the Grand Marshal signals that they may be seated.
• Music for the processional and recessional is provided by the Sacramento State Fine Arts Brass Ensemble.
• A typical ceremony will begin with the President welcoming the audience, giving instructions, and recognizing outstanding graduates.
• A faculty member will recognize each graduate, individually, from a card handed to him/her by the graduate. A photograph will be taken as the graduate receives his/her certificate. (The card and a pencil will be provided on each graduate's seat to be filled out once they are seated).
• The candidate will then be directed back to his/her seat by the faculty marshal.
• After all graduates have received their certificates and returned to their seat, they will be asked to stand while the President confers the degrees.
• At this time the bachelor’s candidates may move their tassels from right to left. After closing remarks by the President of the University, the Grand Marshal will lead the recessional of graduates and dignitaries from the Commencement site. The audience is asked to remain seated during the recessional.

The Ceremony will last approximately one and one-half to two hours, including the time for the processional.