Unveiling the Nuances of NUS Academic Dress: A Comprehensive Guide

The academic dress worn at the National University of Singapore (NUS) holds significant value and tradition, embodying the institution's centuries-old heritage. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the NUS academic dress, its history, significance, and the proper attire for various occasions.

Historical Evolution

The present-day NUS academic dress traces its origins to the colonial era. In 1905, the Straits Settlements and Federated Malay States Government Medical School, the predecessor of NUS, adopted academic gowns based on the model of the University of London. This practice continued when the school became the King Edward VII College of Medicine in 1921.

With the establishment of the University of Malaya in 1949, which later merged with NUS in 1962, the academic dress underwent some modifications. The most notable change was the introduction of the convocation hood, which signifies the graduate's academic discipline.

Types of Academic Dress

The NUS academic dress varies depending on the individual's status and the occasion. The following are the main types:

1. Undergraduate Gowns:

• Bachelor's degree: Black stuff gown with a dagger sleeve, which is a short triangular piece of fabric that hangs from the shoulder.
• Master's degree: Black stuff gown with a round sleeve, which is a full-length sleeve that is gathered at the wrist.

2. Postgraduate Gowns:

• PhD degree: Scarlet stuff gown with a round sleeve.
• Master's by research: Black stuff gown with a round sleeve.
• Master's by coursework: Black stuff gown with a dagger sleeve.

3. Doctoral Hoods:

• The color of the convocation hood indicates the graduate's academic discipline, as per the following table:

Proper Attire for Occasions

1. Convocation:

• Graduates wear their appropriate gowns and hoods.
• The chancellor, president, and vice-chancellors wear scarlet gowns and hoods.
• Deans wear black gowns and hoods with a gold border.

2. Formal Gatherings:

• Academics and administrators wear black stuff gowns with round sleeves.
• Honorary degree recipients wear gowns and hoods corresponding to their degrees.

3. Lectures and Classes:

• Academics typically wear black stuff gowns with round sleeves.
• Students are not required to wear academic dress.

Sizing and Rental

NUS academic dress is available for rental through the University Bookstore. Students and staff can find their appropriate sizes by referring to the following table:

Effective Strategies

To ensure a proper and dignified appearance in academic dress, the following strategies are recommended:

• Rent or purchase academic dress in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.
• Wear clean and pressed clothing underneath the gown.
• Make sure the hood is correctly fastened and draped over the gown.
• Adjust the hem of the gown so that it falls just below the knees.
• Respect the significance and traditions associated with academic dress.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To maintain a high standard of professionalism, the following mistakes should be avoided:

• Wearing a gown that is not your appropriate size.
• Leaving the convocation hood unfolded or draped incorrectly.
• Mixing and matching different types of gowns and hoods.
• Wearing academic dress outside of official occasions.

Step-by-Step Approach

To don the NUS academic dress correctly, follow these steps:

1. Put on your gown:

• Stand with your arms extended outward.
• Hold the front of the gown in one hand and the back of the gown in the other.
• Lift the gown over your head and let it fall down your back.
• Pull the arms through the sleeves.

2. Adjust the gown:

• Pull the gown up so that the hem falls just below the knees.
• Adjust the neckline so that it fits comfortably.
• Tighten the cord at the waist to secure the gown.

3. Wear the hood:

• Hold the hood in front of your body with the inside facing you.
• Place the hood over your head so that the neckband is against your neck.
• Drape the hood over the gown, with the long end hanging down the back.

FAQs

1. What is the difference between a Bachelor's and Master's gown?

A Bachelor's gown has a dagger sleeve, while a Master's gown has a round sleeve.

2. Can I rent academic dress from NUS?

Yes, students and staff can rent academic dress through the University Bookstore.

3. What color is the convocation hood for a PhD in Science?

Blue.

4. Is it appropriate to wear academic dress to a lecture or class?

No, academic dress is typically worn only at formal occasions.

5. What happens if I lose or damage my academic dress?

You will be responsible for the cost of replacing or repairing the dress.

6. How do I care for my academic dress?

Store the dress in a cool, dry place. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or excessive moisture.

Conclusion

The NUS academic dress serves as a symbol of the university's rich history, academic excellence, and commitment to intellectual exploration. By understanding the proper attire, wearing it with dignity, and respecting its traditions, both staff and students contribute to the preservation and enhancement of NUS's academic legacy.