Suggested schedule
To make your day go as smoothly as possible follow the suggested schedule so that you and your guests make the very most of this special occasion.
Travel and parking
Degree Congregations are held on our Edgbaston campus with car parking available in the South Car Park, which operates a pay and display service.
Collecting your tickets
Graduand and guest tickets should be collected by the graduand from the Avon Room Coffee Lounge in University Centre (building R23 on Campus Map (PDF - 397KB)).
The Ticket Desk opens at the following times:
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8.15am for the 10.30am Degree Congregation
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11.30am for the 1.45pm Degree Congregation
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2.15pm for the 4.30pm Degree Congregation.
Each graduand is allocated two guest tickets, which will be given to you when you collect your own ticket. Remember to bring your student ID card with you to collect your tickets. Should there be any additional tickets available for your Degree Congregation then they will be allocated on the day, on a first-come first-served basis.
Children
Each guest, including all children, entering the Great Hall must be in possession of a guest ticket irrespective of age. To ensure the safety of all guests, in no circumstances can a child be seated on a guest’s lap, nor can we allocate additional tickets for children attending a Degree Congregation.
A number of television screening rooms are available to guests, with a venue specifically designated for children available in Staff House (building R24 on Campus Map (PDF - 397KB)). This venue includes catering and toilet facilities nearby. Degree Congregations are not considered appropriate for babies and young children, therefore we advise graduands to take advantage of the alternative venues across campus to maximize your enjoyment of the day.
Collecting your academic dress
Once graduands have collected their tickets, academic dress (robes) can be collected from the Avon Room in University Centre (building R23 on Campus Map (PDF - 397KB)). Remember to bring the order confirmation with you to collect your academic dress.
Photography
Once tickets and academic dress have been collected you are able to have your photograph taken if you wish. Pre-ordered bookings should join the fast-track queue. Members of staff from Ede and Ravenscroft will be available if you have any queries, or wish to order your photography on the day.
Don't be late
The doors to the Great Hall will close 15 minutes before the start of each Degree Congregation to both graduands and guests. This is to ensure the Degree Congregation runs smoothly for all concerned. Ensure you allow sufficient time to walk from University Centre to the Great Hall (building R6 on Campus Map (PDF - 397KB)).
Guests and graduands with disabilities
On the day of the ceremony, we can put adjustments in place for graduands and guests with disabilities.
School receptions
Most Schools organise a celebratory reception either before or after your Degree Congregation. Ensure you do not confuse any information about these events with those of the Degree Congregation. Should you have any queries regarding your School event, please contact them directly.
Catering and Accommodation
Venue Birmingham provide a variety of catering and accommodation options for those attending a Degree Congregation.