M THE DAILY INSIGHT
// news

What are Oxford University Colours?

By Michael Gray

Oxford Blue
University of Oxford/Colors

What does purple mean in a graduation gown?

Purple usually symbolizes royalty. For graduate hoods and academic regalia colors, purple is used to designate the degree or discipline of Architecture, Dental Surgery, Dentistry, Law, Jurisprudence, Regional Planning, and Urban Planning.

Why is Oxford dark blue?

The wearing of dark blue by Oxford was established at the first Boat Race in 1829, while Cambridge adopted their lighter hue in this annual sporting contest in 1836. Dark blue was the colour ascribed to Christ Church and the Oxford crew sported white jerseys with dark blue stripes.

Is there a dress code at Oxford University?

Most Oxford students dress casually but you will need a jacket and tie at least, and a dark suit will probably be needed once in a while (or the women’s equivalent). There is no “dress code” for tutorials per se, but smart casual dress is strongly advised.

What does a green graduation robe mean?

Here is an abbreviated list of other colors mentioned in the Academic Costume Code, which is part of the Intercollegiate Bureau of Academic Costume: Communications: Crimson. Education: Light Blue. Fine Arts: Brown. Medicine: Kelly Green.

What is the dress code for Oxford University graduation?

The gown should be a black graduate gown of the Oxford BA pattern. The hood should be a black silk hood of the full shape, partly lined with dark blue and with the cowl bound ½ inch in cream ribbon. The top of the neckband is also bound in cream. Graduates must wear a standard hat of black cloth known as a mortarboard

What does the color of your graduation gown mean?

About 125 Universities will have specific color in their graduation gown. For instance, the doctoral graduates from the Boston University will wear a mixture of black and scarlet. Grads of Johns Hopkins University will have black and gold trim. Usually, the graduation regalia will reflect the color that represent the University.

What are the different types of graduate gowns in Oxford?

The two most common graduate gowns in Oxford are the Bachelor of Arts (BA) [b1] and Master of Arts (MA) [m1] gowns, which are worn by new graduates of whatever subject. The degree of Master of Arts is granted to BA graduates at a degree ceremony no sooner than 21 terms after matriculation.

Can graduate students wear the academic dress of their old universities?

Alternatively, graduate students may wear the academic dress of their old university except at those occasions where “foreign” academic dress is prohibited, such as the Encaenia and the second half of degree ceremonies when the graduand pays his respects to the Vice-Chancellor in the dress of his new Oxford degree.