Accessibility and inclusivity at graduation

Graduation can feel unfamiliar, especially if you’re not sure what to expect. We want to make your experience as inclusive and accessible as possible, and our Graduation Team is here to support you.

If you have any accessibility requirements or specific needs, please let us know in advance by using the Special Requirements section when booking your tickets or by emailing graduation@shu.ac.uk. Sharing this information early helps us make appropriate arrangements so everything is in place for your day.

Any information you share will only be used to support your graduation experience. It will be treated with care and kept confidential.

On this page: 

Support availableBefore your graduationAlternative graduation ceremonyContact us

Support available

We can support a range of needs, including: 

  • Accessibility adjustments for graduates and guests 
  • Support to help you feel comfortable and prepared for your ceremony 
  • Alternative arrangements for those who may find large events overwhelming

If you need support during your graduation day, please speak to a member of staff or a steward (wearing a burgundy gown), who will be happy to help.

Before your graduation

To help you prepare for your day, you can find information about: 

Alternative graduation ceremony

If you'd prefer a quieter, less formal graduation, you can choose our alternative graduation ceremony. 

Traditional graduation ceremonies can feel overwhelming for some graduates. Our alternative ceremony is designed to provide a calmer, more comfortable experience for neurodivergent graduates and guests, as well as those with autism, a disability or social anxiety.  

Find out more about our alternative ceremony 

Contact us

If you have any questions or would like to discuss your requirements, we're here to help.

You can get in touch with a member of the team by emailing graduation@shu.ac.uk or by calling 0114 225 5353. 

Graduation guides

Graduate getting gowned on graduation day

Plan your day

Get graduation-ready with our preparation checklist – including tickets, gowns, photos and travel information.

See our checklist
Sheffield Hallam University Graduates in front of flowering Hallam H

On the day

Wondering what graduation will be like? Our on the day guide covers everything you’ll do on your big day.

What to expect
Graduate standing at the podium talking to audience

The venues

Here’s everything you need to know about our venues – the world-renowned Ponds Forge and Owen Building at City Campus.

Where you’ll graduate