The presentation of degrees will take place at the individual school ceremonies. (USC Photo)
USC announces 2024 commencement celebrations
Dozens of student-focused events will recognize the newest graduates.
The Trojan Family will celebrate USC’s 141st commencement with a series of school ceremonies, doctoral hoodings and official celebrations May 8-11 honoring the Class of 2024. The schedule includes the Trojan Family Graduate Celebration at 8:30 p.m. Thursday, May 9, in the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
As in years past, the school ceremonies are the location where students cross the stage, have their names announced, are photographed and receive their diplomas. They will also feature addresses from school deans and leadership, along with special guests.
The presentation of degrees — the most important part of commencement — also will take place at the individual school ceremonies. For members of the Class of 2024 who may have graduated from high school during the pandemic, these ceremonies will be their first time experiencing this special moment.
Other traditional events on USC’s commencement calendar include doctoral hooding ceremonies, special celebrations, and departmental activities and receptions. The university is planning to have performances by the USC Trojan Marching Band along with the traditional celebratory release of doves and appearances by Traveler.
To ensure the safety of all participants, additional security measures will be implemented, including individual ticketing for all commencement events and University Park Campus access through specific points of entry. The new safety measures will substantially increase the time needed to accommodate the large number of guests coming to campus. As a result, the university will not be able to host the main stage ceremony that traditionally brings 65,000 people to the University Park Campus during a short, 90-minute window early Friday morning.
The university has posted updated schedules and ticketing processes on the USC commencement website. Every effort will be made to minimize changes so attendees’ plans will not be disrupted.
Also available on the 2024 commencement website will be detailed maps, parking instructions, ADA accommodations, public transportation information and the university’s code of conduct and expectations.
This story was updated on May 3 to add the Trojan Family Graduate Celebration and ticketing information.
