By Keziah Cracknell
Recently I’ve seen many people online posting memes regarding virtual graduations, which, while funny on the surface, also suggests that there are legitimate fears among many students on whether or not they will actually get a degree, or whether it will be legitimate or not.
These are genuine concerns based on truth, so what has the University of Huddersfield said?
The University has assured their students that they will complete their degrees. Exams and assignments will be adjusted so students can work around and adapt them, so it is possible to complete their degree whilst in lockdown.
They have also added a ‘Safety Net’ policy, which means all undergraduate final years will receive no lower than their average second-year grade.
This was in response to a student petition that asked for this, which will hopefully provide security to anxious students.
The University has still postponed all graduation ceremonies until further notice, but as with most ceremonies, they are performative. Students will still receive their degrees in an official capacity.
Students will receive their certificate through the post which is normal. Also, while they have been postponed for now, the university fully intends to host the ceremonies when it is appropriate.
So, students will be glad to know that the virtual graduation is not quite yet a reality, but hopefully when lockdown ends graduation will happen, and you will be able to throw your hat into the air!