Earlier this month, we had the opportunity to proudly recognise the accomplishments of our 2024 summer graduates.

Each of this year’s ceremonies was a vibrant testament to the hard work and perseverance of students across the medical, biomedical and veterinary sciences.

Graduation reception in Bristo Square, Edinburgh. Photograph by Greg Macvean.

Held in the magnificent surroundings of McEwan Hall, these ceremonies are a fantastic chance to celebrate what our newest graduates have achieved during their time studying with us.

The McEwan Hall was presented to the University in 1897 by local philanthropist William McEwan as a ceremonial hall for graduations. Photograph by Mihaela Bodlovic.

This summer, more than 1,100 students graduated from the College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, with four separate ceremonies held for our undergraduates, research scholars, online learners and other postgraduate students.

Graduates outside the McEwan Hall. Photograph by Greg Macvean.

Despite the occasional rain typical of an Edinburgh summer, spirits remained undampened as graduates in their colourful gowns and hoods gathered with their friends and families.

Read more: What do hood and gown colours mean at graduation?

Not even the rain dampened our graduates’ spirits as they celebrated with their friends and families. Photograph by Greg Macvean.

For many of our online students, graduation marks their first visit to Edinburgh, turning the day into an extraordinary blend of celebration and discovery.

Graduate at a reception on Bristo Square outside the McEwan Hall. Photograph by Greg Macvean.

The Edinburgh graduation experience

Graduating from the University of Edinburgh is not just about receiving a degree; it’s about being part of a tradition steeped in history.

The University, with its rich heritage, has been celebrating student achievements for centuries.

Edinburgh’s graduation ceremonies are a joyful mix of celebration and tradition. Photograph by Greg Macvean.

As part of the ceremony, graduates are traditionally tapped on the head with a graduation cap known as the Geneva Bonnet. According to University legend, this cap was made using material from the breeches of the Scottish religious reformer John Knox (1514–1572).

In graduation ceremonies at the University of Edinburgh, graduates are tapped on the head, or ‘doffed’, with the Geneva Bonnet. Photograph by Andrew Perry.

Looking forward

As we close the chapter on another successful graduation, we look forward to the future contributions our graduates will make in the fields of human, animal and ecosystem health. Their journey of learning might have reached a significant milestone, but their paths of impact and innovation are just beginning.

Graduation gives our new graduates a chance to celebrate with their loved ones and the academic staff who supported their studies. Photograph by Greg Macvean.

Congratulations to everyone who has graduated from the University of Edinburgh this month. We can’t wait to see all the extraordinary things you’ll do after graduating!

Graduate in front of the doors of the McEwan Hall. Photograph by Greg Macvean.

Further reading

What do hood and gown colours mean at graduation?

Graduation ceremonies at the University of Edinburgh