Earning Your Degree/Certificate from Bristol Community College

Yes, all students who wish to be awarded their degree or certificate must complete the application to graduate. We do not want to assume that you want to receive your degree or certificate in case you plan to change majors or repeat coursework. Upon the successful completion of your degree or certificate, the conferred award is final and will not be rescinded. This recognition stands as a permanent testament to your academic achievement.

Bristol has three graduation conferral dates: Summer Term (August 31st), Fall Term (December 31st), and Spring Term (date is based on commencement ceremony).

Students should apply to graduate in the term they are eligible to complete all degree requirements with the exception being our spring term. Students expecting to fulfill all degree requirements in the summer term and have two or fewer program requirements left to graduate should apply in the spring term if they wish to participate in the commencement ceremony.

The graduation application becomes available following the last day of Add/Drop for each term. For additional information, please refer to the Apply to Graduate page.

To graduate from Bristol, the number of credits required depends on the specific degree or certificate you are pursuing. Generally, for an associate degree, a minimum of 60 credits (excluding developmental courses) is required. However, it's essential to note that you must also successfully complete all program-specific requirements to be eligible for graduation.

For more detailed information on the credit requirements for your specific program, please refer to the Academic Catalog. The catalog provides comprehensive details about degree and certificate programs, ensuring you have the accurate information needed for successful completion.

At Bristol, "graduation" signifies the successful completion of all requirements for your degree or certificate. It acknowledges your academic achievements and marks the official conferral of your qualification. "Commencement," in contrast, is the celebratory event where you, alongside peers and loved ones, formally mark the beginning of your post-academic journey.

Bristol hosts an annual commencement ceremony at the conclusion of the spring term. The exact date is set to coincide with the Academic Calendar, ensuring a memorable and timely celebration for our graduating students.

Bristol offers three levels of certificates. Students earning a Certificate of Achievement (CTACH) are eligible to participate in the commencement ceremony.

Students who complete all their courses in the fall term are invited to participate in the following spring ceremony.

Students expecting to fulfill all degree requirements in the summer term who have two or fewer program requirements left to graduate are invited to the spring ceremony before finishing their coursework.

Students expecting to fulfill all degree requirements in the summer term who have two or fewer program requirements left to graduate are invited to the spring ceremony before finishing their coursework. However, diplomas will only be issued upon the successful completion of all coursework.

To provide proof of your degree and/or certificate to your employer, you should request an official transcript through our electronic Parchment services. This document can be sent electronically at no cost, ensuring a convenient and official verification of your academic achievements.

Approximately two weeks after the conclusion of the semester, your college transcript will show the conferred degree and/or certificate.

Typically, diplomas are received within 4-6 weeks following the graduation date.

It's essential to note that while the diploma itself is not considered an official document, students in need of proof of graduation should request an official transcript through our electronic Parchment services.

Your diploma includes essential information such as your full name, degree or certificate earned, major or program of study, any honors earned, and the official conferral date.

Your diploma is not only a symbol of your academic achievement but also the perfect keepsake to commemorate your educational journey.

Yes, you can request replacement or duplicate copies of your diploma. Contact the Registrar's Office to initiate the request and they will provide guidance on the process. Please note that there is a $25 fee for each additional copy.

While you're still welcome to participate in the commencement ceremony, please be aware that until all holds are cleared, the ability to request an official transcript and the mailing of your diploma will be temporarily unavailable. Ensure a smooth graduation process by addressing any outstanding holds with the respective department.

To update your mailing address for diploma delivery, please ensure your current address is accurate when you apply to graduate. If, for any reason, your address changes after your application, kindly reach out directly to the Registrar's Office for assistance.

If you complete your final degree requirements at a Massachusetts public four-year institution, you could qualify to earn your degree from Bristol. Explore MassTransfer’s Reverse Transfer for more information.

Students interested in maintaining enrollment at the college following graduation should submit a new application for a different program or certificate of study.

Receiving this message may indicate that you have not completed all your coursework necessary for graduation. Please review Degree Works or consult your advisor to ensure all program/certificate requirements have been met.

If you believe you're receiving this notice in error, please contact the Registrar's Office.

To learn more about our honors designations and opportunities please visit our commencement awards page.