Frequently Asked Questions for Diploma

These are just a few questions frequently asked about diploma. If you have any other diploma questions, please feel free to contact the Registrar’s Office at (619) 260-4557.

1. When will I receive my diploma?
   6 to 8 weeks after the graduation date if there are no financial hold under your account.
   
   
2. Where will USD mail my diploma?
   

   Your diploma will be mailed to the address you provided on your graduation petition. If no address was given on the petition, then it will be mailed to your permanent address.

   
   If you would like to verify and/or change your permanent/mailing address, please turn in your "Change of Address" form to the Registrar’s Office.
   
   
3. How do I get a replacement for my diploma?
   Please click here for detail information.
   
   
4. What if I need someone else to pick up my diploma?
   The person who is authorized by you to pick up your diploma must bring a signed, written consent from you, along with a clear valid photo ID.
   
   
5. Will my diploma reflect university or departmental honors, if earned?
   The diploma that you receive in the mail will designate whether you have graduated with honors (sum cum laude, magna cum laude or cum laude).  These special honors are determined based on your USD cumulative grade point  average—for summa cum laude, 3.85 or higher; for magna cum laude, 3.65 to 3.84; and for cum laude, 3.46to 3.64.  The honors designation on your actual diploma may be different than the one announced at Commencement, because the script for Commencement is based on grades earned up to the end of previous fall semester.  The diploma does not reflect departmental honors.  However, departmental honors, if earned, will be noted on your transcript.
   
   
6. I’ve changed my name after graduation.  Can I get a diploma with my new name?
   The name on the diploma must match the name as it appears on your official record filed with the University Registrar.  However, you may order a replacement diploma with your new name providing your request also includes a photocopy of a valid government document showing your current name.  Make sure to clarify on your diploma request that you would like to use your new name.  You must also complete a "Change of Name" form.
   
   
7. I am moving shortly after graduation.  How can I make sure I get my diploma?
   Please make sure to leave mail forwarding instructions with the U.S. Postal Service and send e-mail using your USD e-mail account to Registrar’s Office with your new mailing address.  If your diploma is returned to our office, we will send it to the most recent address on record.  If we have none, it will be held until you contact us. 
   
   
8. I am a DOUBLE MAJOR.  Will I receive one or two diplomas?
   By definition, a double major is two (or more) areas combined into a single degree (B.A. or B.S.).  You will receive only one diploma.  In frequently, a student completes twp majors from the School of Business and from Arts and Sciences, and completes a minimum of 154 units.  In that case, two diplomas are awarded.