Duke University cordially invites all graduating students and their honored guests to partake in the Baccalaureate Service, a cherished tradition held in the iconic Duke Chapel. These multi-faith ceremonies, thoughtfully designed to be inclusive of all backgrounds, will feature prayers, uplifting music, and readings drawn from a diverse spectrum of religious traditions. Attendees will be privileged to hear inspiring words from fellow graduating students, esteemed faith leaders, the insightful Dean of the Chapel Luke A. Powery, and the distinguished President Vincent E. Price.
Graduating students are offered the valuable opportunity to register for one of the two available services. Kindly note that guest seating within Duke Chapel and overflow viewing in Page Auditorium will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis until capacity is reached.
Student registration opens on Wednesday, April 9th and will close on Wednesday, April 23, 2025.
Baccalaureate Service Event Details
| Date | Time | Service Location | Guest Viewing Locations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Friday, May 9 | 1:00 PM | Duke Chapel | Duke Chapel & Page Auditorium |
| Friday, May 9 | 4:00 PM | Duke Chapel | Duke Chapel & Page Auditorium |
Graduate Procession Information
Each Baccalaureate Service commences with a dignified procession of graduates into the Chapel, symbolizing their collective achievement. Graduates are requested to wear full academic regalia, with the exception of hoods. The procession will begin promptly ten minutes before the officially scheduled start time of each service. Please review the detailed processional instructions outlined below to ensure a smooth and respectful commencement to the ceremony.
Processional Instructions for Graduates:
- Graduates should wear academic attire, including gown and cap. Hoods are not required for this service.
- Please assemble at Abele Quad, situated in front of Perkins Library, for check-in and processional line-up. Arrival is requested 30 minutes prior to your scheduled service time.
- In the event of inclement weather conditions, the outdoor procession may be canceled. Students will be promptly notified and directed to proceed directly to Duke Chapel.
Guest Viewing and Attendance
Seating within Duke Chapel for guests is limited for the Baccalaureate Service. To accommodate all guests, the services will be broadcast live on a large, high-definition video screen in the adjacent Page Auditorium. For those unable to attend in person, the services will also be streamed live on the official Commencement website homepage and the Duke Chapel YouTube channel. Please note that tickets are not required for either the Chapel or Page Auditorium viewing locations; however, seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Graduates have already received comprehensive information regarding the service registration process.
Requesting a Service Change
Should you be unable to attend your initially registered Baccalaureate Service, you may submit a request to change your service time by sending an email to [email protected]. Kindly include the following essential information in your email: Full Name, NetID, School/Department, preferred service date and time, and a brief explanation outlining your reason for requesting a change.
