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    • EVENTS

    USC Thornton Commencement

    Join us for our 2026 Commencement Week celebrations and events.

    Thornton's dean and an alumnus converse on graduation day

    COMMENCEMENT DAY | FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2026

    Schedule of Events

    • Ceremony: USC Thornton’s Satellite Ceremony at 9:00 a.m. in the Epstein Family Plaza will host graduating bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral students.

    • Reception: A reception will be held immediately after the school ceremony at Ramo Lawn, next to the Ramo Hall of Music (RHM) building.


    • Tickets: No tickets are needed for this ceremony. Tickets are required only for the main USC ceremony on Thursday, May 14, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Main Stage Ceremony ticketing information coming soon.

    Regalia and Honor Cords

    • Regalia: February’s 2026 Grad Fest at the Ronald Tutor Campus Center Ballroom is an ideal time to order memorabilia, including cap and gown. Students can view items in advance or order via the USC Bookstore.
    • Honor Cords: USC provides honor cords as the official regalia decoration for qualifying undergraduates. Students will be notified via their university email on the pick-up process during their final semester.
     USC GRADUATE HUB 

    USC Ceremonies

    Main Stage Commencement Celebration

    USC hosts a school-wide celebration at the historic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on Thursday, May 14, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. featuring the official conferral of degrees, a keynote address and much more.

    Baaccalaureate & Special Celebrations

    USC holds special celebrations during the week of Commencement (including the Baccalaureate Ceremony on Wednesday, May 13) that recognize cultural communities, academic achievements and other important milestones.

    Two graduates making the

    Get Ready to Celebrate

    Be sure to arrive early and make any necessary arrangements to enjoy your graduate’s special day. For a full list of events, resources and frequently asked questions, please visit USC’s main Commencement 2026 page.

    We are committed to ensuring that all graduates & guests have an accessible & enjoyable Commencement experience.

    A wide range of dining options and nearby accommodations are available to make your visit comfortable and convenient. 

    USC’s Clear Bag Policy limits the types and sizes of bags allowed at the USC Galen Center and Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

    Getting to USC is easy, whether you’re driving, taking public transportation, or using a rideshare service.

    Two graduates making the

    Stay Connected

    If you require additional information about the USC Thornton School of Music Ceremony, please contact the Thornton Commencement team at: thornton.commencement@usc.edu