Dress to Impress: Navigating the Nuances of NUS Academic Dress

Academic ceremonies hold a unique significance in the life of a university and its students, symbolizing the culmination of years of hard work and intellectual pursuits. At the National University of Singapore (NUS), these occasions are adorned with a rich tradition of academic dress, reflecting the university's commitment to academic excellence and the preservation of its heritage.

History and Significance of NUS Academic Dress

The NUS academic dress finds its roots in the traditions of the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge, both of which have a long and illustrious history. NUS adopted its own set of academic regalia in 1949, shortly after its establishment as an independent university. The design of the gowns, hoods, and caps was carefully considered to represent the university's unique identity and its place within the global academic community.

Types of NUS Academic Dress

NUS academic dress varies depending on the degree and faculty of the wearer. Each gown, hood, and cap is designed to convey the wearer's academic achievements and affiliations.

1. Gowns

• Bachelor's Degrees: Black gowns with long, closed sleeves and front buttoning.
• Master's Degrees: Black gowns with long, open sleeves and a slit in the back.
• Doctoral Degrees: Crimson gowns with long, open sleeves and a slit in the back.

2. Hoods

• Bachelor's Degrees: Black hoods lined with the color of the faculty.
• Master's Degrees: Black hoods lined with the color of the faculty and trimmed with a narrow band of fur.
• Doctoral Degrees: Crimson hoods lined with the color of the faculty and trimmed with a wide band of fur.

3. Caps

• Bachelor's Degrees: Black square caps with a tassel on the top.
• Master's Degrees: Black tams with a gold tassel.
• Doctoral Degrees: Black velvet caps with a gold tassel.

Wearing NUS Academic Dress

NUS academic dress is worn at formal ceremonies such as graduations, convocations, and other university-wide events. It is important to wear the correct academic dress for the occasion and to adhere to the following guidelines:

• Gowns: Gowns should be worn over a white shirt and black pants or a skirt. The gown should be buttoned up to the neck and should not be too long or too short.
• Hoods: Hoods are worn over the gown and should be positioned so that the lining is visible. The fur trim should fall over the wearer's right shoulder.
• Caps: Caps are worn on the head and should be tilted slightly forward. The tassel should be worn on the left side of the head.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Wearing the wrong size gown: The gown should be the correct size and should not be too tight or too loose.
• Wearing the hood incorrectly: The hood should be worn over the gown and should not be draped over the shoulder.
• Wearing the cap incorrectly: The cap should be tilted slightly forward and the tassel should be worn on the left side of the head.
• Not wearing the academic dress properly: The academic dress should be worn with a sense of pride and respect. It should be clean and pressed and should not be worn with casual clothing or accessories.

Step-by-Step Approach to Wearing NUS Academic Dress

1. Choose the correct gown: Select the appropriate gown based on your degree and faculty.
2. Put on the gown: Wear the gown over a white shirt and black pants or a skirt. Button up the gown to the neck.
3. Place the hood: Drape the hood over the gown and position it so that the lining is visible. The fur trim should fall over your right shoulder.
4. Put on the cap: Place the cap on your head and tilt it slightly forward. The tassel should be worn on the left side of your head.
5. Check the fit: Make sure that the academic dress is the correct size and is worn properly.

FAQs

1. What is the history of NUS academic dress?

NUS adopted its own set of academic regalia in 1949, shortly after its establishment as an independent university. The design of the gowns, hoods, and caps was carefully considered to represent the university's unique identity and its place within the global academic community.

2. What are the different types of NUS academic dress?

NUS academic dress varies depending on the degree and faculty of the wearer. Each gown, hood, and cap is designed to convey the wearer's academic achievements and affiliations.

3. How do I wear NUS academic dress?

NUS academic dress is worn at formal ceremonies such as graduations, convocations, and other university-wide events. It is important to wear the correct academic dress for the occasion and to adhere to the guidelines regarding the wearing of gowns, hoods, and caps.

4. What are some common mistakes to avoid when wearing NUS academic dress?

Some common mistakes to avoid when wearing NUS academic dress include wearing the wrong size gown, wearing the hood incorrectly, wearing the cap incorrectly, and not wearing the academic dress properly.

5. What is the step-by-step approach to wearing NUS academic dress?

The step-by-step approach to wearing NUS academic dress involves choosing the correct gown, putting on the gown, placing the hood, putting on the cap, and checking the fit.

6. Where can I find more information about NUS academic dress?

More information about NUS academic dress can be found on the NUS website or by contacting the University Registrar's Office.

Conclusion

NUS academic dress is a symbol of the university's heritage, its commitment to academic excellence, and its place within the global academic community. By adhering to the guidelines regarding academic dress, students and faculty can honor the traditions of the university and contribute to the sense of occasion at formal ceremonies.