The University of Cumbria is celebrating as it starts its summer graduation ceremonies at Carlisle Cathedral.

Starting on Tuesday, July 15, Carlisle Cathedral plays host to the University of Cumbria’s summer graduations. 

Some 1,500 University of Cumbria students are celebrating this week as they complete their undergraduate degrees and postgraduate studies in a range of academic fields.

These newly acquired higher-level skills have been gained across areas including education, arts and society, science and environment, industry, business and leadership, and health. 

Those who have studied at the university’s campuses in Carlisle, Ambleside, Lancaster and London are converging upon Carlisle for the graduation celebrations, as will those who have studied in their workplaces, via distance learning or through degree apprenticeships routes.

Nine ceremonies for these Class of 2025 graduands will take place from 15-17 July inclusive celebrating student achievement, university awards and honorary conferments.

Cathy Lambert, Pro Vice Chancellor (Student Journey and Academic Registrar), said: “I am thrilled to welcome so many graduands and their families and supporters to Carlisle this week to celebrate our students’ hard work, resilience and commitment to their degree programmes.

“I’d also like to thank school choirs from across the Cumbria Education Trust for providing some music to mark the beginning of each of our ceremonies this week.”

Highlights across this week include:

Tuesday, July 15

Three students are receiving the university’s special Sprit of Cumbria Award which is awarded to students who are exceptional role models in and outside of the institution, exemplifying its values of being personal, progressive and engaged.

Students will graduate with their well-earned degrees from the Institute of Business, Industry and Leadership, Institute of Science and Environment and Institute of Health.

Wednesday, July 16

The university looks forward to welcoming international students from across the world who have studied Cumbrian programmes through Zurich-based Robert Kennedy College, a partnership that has existed since 2010 to deliver online postgraduate qualifications for managers worldwide.

In recognition of her outstanding contributions to teacher education, leadership and role modelling, Amanda Wilson will be the latest person to receive a University of Cumbria Honorary Fellowship.

Students will graduate from the university’s Institute of Education, Arts and Society, Institute of Health and Institute of Business, Industry and Leadership.

Thursday, July 17

Celebrating a graduate from 2001, the university will give Amy Walker, head of strategy and capital programmes at Tullie in Carlisle, the Alumnus of the Year award.

Students will graduate from the Institute of Heath with both the 12.00 and 15.00 ceremonies attended by frontline paramedics working at ambulance trusts around the country who have successfully completed their University of Cumbria award-winning degree apprenticeships.