Frequently Asked Questions
Degree Conferral
What is degree conferral?
Degree conferral is the official process of awarding your degree once you have successfully completed all academic and program requirements.
Do I need to apply for graduation?
No. A graduation application is no longer required.
Once you successfully complete all classes and meet all additional program requirements, the Graduation team will be notified and will review your academic record for degree conferral.
How do I know if I am ready to graduate?
You are ready to be reviewed for graduation once you have:
- Successfully completed all classes required for your program
- Met all additional academic and program requirements
- Resolved any outstanding requirements identified on your academic record
If you are unsure about your progress or remaining requirements, contact your academic counselor to review your academic progress.
What happens after I complete my final class?
Once your final class and all other program requirements have been completed, the graduation team will be notified. The graduation team will review your program and academic record to confirm you have met all requirements.
If all requirements are satisfied, your degree will be conferred.
How long does it take for my degree to be conferred after I finish my final class?
Your record must first reflect completion of all required coursework and program requirements. Once all requirements are confirmed, the graduation team will complete the review and degree conferral process.
Will someone review my academic record before my degree is conferred?
Yes. Your academic and finance counselor will complete your first review of your academic record when you have 4 credits or less remaining in your program to complete. The graduation team will do a final review once you have successfully completed all coursework to confirm that all requirements have been satisfied before your degree is conferred.
What if I believe I have completed all requirements, but my degree has not been conferred?
If you believe you have completed all requirements and your degree has not yet been conferred, first contact your academic counselor to review your academic progress. If additional assistance is needed, your counselor can help determine the appropriate next steps.
Preparing for Graduation
What should I do before I finish my program?
As you approach completion of your program:
- Complete all required coursework
- Ensure all additional program requirements have been met
- Review your academic progress with your Academic Counselor if you have question
- Confirm that your mailing address is current
- Resolve any outstanding financial obligations if applicable
Why do I need to confirm my mailing address?
Your paper diploma will be mailed to the address on file. It is important to confirm that your mailing address is accurate before your degree is conferred.
If you need to update your address, you may do so through your Student Portal. For additional assistance, you may email [email protected] or contact your academic and finance counselor.
What happens if I do not update my address before my degree is conferred?
Your diploma will be mailed to the address on file at the time of mailing. To avoid delays or your diploma being sent to an incorrect address, make sure your address is accurate before your degree is conferred.
Diplomas
When will I receive my diploma?
Your paper diploma will be mailed approximately 8–10 weeks after your degree is conferred to the mailing address on file.
Will I receive a digital diploma?
Yes. A link to your digital diploma will be sent to your NU student email address approximately 2–4 weeks after your degree is conferred.
Can my diploma be released if I have an outstanding balance with the University?
No. We cannot release either the paper or digital diploma while you have an outstanding financial obligation with the University.
What should I do once my balance has been cleared?
Once your balance has been cleared, notify the graduation department by emailing [email protected].
Please include:
- Your full name
- Student ID
- Current mailing address
Who should I contact if I have questions about my balance?
For questions regarding your financial balance, contact Student Business Services at:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (858) 642-8041
How do I order a duplicate diploma?
To request an additional diploma copy, please email our Graduation Department at [email protected]
Commencement
Is degree conferral the same thing as commencement?
No. Degree conferral and commencement are separate.
Degree conferral is the official awarding of your degree after you have completed all requirements. Commencement is the ceremony celebrating graduates and their accomplishments.
Do I have to attend commencement to receive my degree?
No. Attendance at commencement is not required to have your degree conferred.
How do I find information about commencement?
Visit the commencement page for information about upcoming ceremonies, eligibility, and participation.
If I am planning to attend commencement, do I still need to complete my academic requirements?
Yes. Participating in commencement does not replace the requirement to successfully complete your academic and program requirements for degree conferral.