Graduation Requirements

To receive a certificate, diploma, or degree, students must

  • complete all state-approved program requirements with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 (a C average)
  • complete a minimum of 25% of the total credit hours required in the program at SCC
  • complete less than 25% of the total credit hours required in the program through credit for prior knowledge, experience, or certifications unless otherwise specified in the program
  • apply for graduation
  • pay any outstanding fees and/or fines 

Graduation exercises are held at the end of the spring semester for all students who have completed degree requirements during the academic year, including those earning certificates. Students who will finish their program during the subsequent summer semester may also participate in the spring ceremony. These students should submit a graduation application if the summer coursework will complete their program of study and should consult their academic advisor to verify their final courses.

Students who wish to participate in the graduation ceremony must complete the online graduation application in Self-Service by the deadlines posted on the college website. Students must have a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher to participate in the graduation ceremony. Those who do not meet this requirement will not be allowed to participate in the graduation ceremony and may not graduate until the minimum 2.0 GPA is achieved. Participation in the graduation ceremony is free, excluding the required cap and gown purchase from the official college vendor. Students eligible to graduate who choose not to participate in the graduation ceremony should complete the online graduation application in Self-Service to ensure the timely awarding of their degree(s).

Students who meet the requirements for graduation may also be identified by the college. The college will notify students who have met the requirements for graduation and will award those students with appropriate credentials. While the college will make every effort to identify students who have met the requirements for graduation, students are ultimately responsible for monitoring their progress and must submit the online graduation application during their final semester.

The college requests all prospective graduates to complete the online graduation survey. The survey link is provided in the automated email sent upon graduation application completion and in the graduation confirmation letter from the registrar's office.