If you are participating in the ceremony, you must order your cap, gown, and tassel through the WCJC Bookstore. Orders may be placed in-person at the Wharton or Richmond bookstore or online via the WCJC Bookstore.

You may order customized graduation announcements online via the WCJC Bookstore.

Doors will open at 8:30 am for the 10:00 am ceremony and at 12:30 pm for the 2:00 pm ceremony. Reserved seating is prohibited. Please urge your family and friends to arrive early in order to have a seat.

In addition to seating in the gym, Commencement will be live-streamed to the Fine Arts Auditorium on the Wharton Campus.  Additional overflow seating will be available in the auditorium as needed.

Commencement is a time for celebration and recognition of your academic success, and the faculty and staff of Wharton County Junior College congratulate you!  We ask that you remember this long and respected tradition and approach the ceremony with the proper decorum and respect. 

Men wear white or light-colored shirts, dark pants, and solid-colored dark shoes. Women wear light-weight dresses or shirts with dark pants and dark-colored low-heeled shoes.  Do not wear flowers or any kind of conspicuous costume jewelry.   

How many commencements does WCJC host each year? 
WCJC holds one commencement in the Spring of a given academic year.  All graduates from the preceding Fall, current Spring, and upcoming Summer terms will be recognized during this event. Students who are graduating in the Summer must be registered and have payment in place for their final courses.  

There are two ceremonies held during commencement: a ceremony that begins at 10:00 am for all Associate of Arts graduates and a ceremony that begins at 2:00 pm for all Associate of Applied Science graduates.

How many guests can I invite?  Are tickets issued? 
We do not issue tickets or reserve seats. You may invite as many guests as you would like. However, there is limited seating.

My guest or I need accommodations for the ceremony. If you or your guest need assistance with seating requirements, please indicate the request on your application for graduation. You may also contact Emily Voulgaris at (979) 532-6537.

Where should I park? Parking map

What should I wear to the ceremony? 
The ceremony is a distinguished event.  Please dress tastefully.  Keep in mind – the robe is knee- to shin length. Slacks or knee-length skirts are appropriate. You may be standing for an hour or longer; please wear comfortable shoes.

How long does the ceremony last?
The ceremony typically lasts 1.5 hours.

Can my guests take pictures at commencement?
Yes, they are able to take pictures from the guest seating area only and the aisles must remain clear at all times.

When will I receive my diploma?
You will receive your diploma 2-3 weeks after the commencement ceremony. Your diploma will be mailed to the address listed on your application for graduation.