By tradition, the commencement ceremony may include a processional, introductions, awards, a speaker and a recessional. It is colorful and festive, but dignified. Music for the processional and recessional will signal the beginning and end of the ceremony. The processional, led by the grand marshal carrying the college banner, and directed by faculty marshals, will enter the commencement site, providing a colorful view of candidates and faculty in their full academic regalia.

The ceremony will typically will continue with a welcome and perhaps instructions from the dean of the college, followed by the recognition of outstanding students.

SDSU President Stephen L. Weber will confer the degrees at all ceremonies following the presentation of degree candidates by the dean of the college. Names of graduates will be read at each Cox Arena ceremony. Following closing remarks by the dean, the grand marshal will lead the recessional of graduates and dignitaries from the commencement site back to the assembly area.