The University of Phoenix hosted its 2026 Spring commencement ceremony at Chase Field in Phoenix on March 7, honoring more than 3,100 graduates across morning and afternoon ceremonies attended by over 13,000 guests. The event celebrated adult and working learners who completed degree programs designed to meet workforce needs.
The ceremony recognized the achievements of students who often balance full-time jobs, family responsibilities, and other commitments while pursuing their education. Many are first-generation college graduates with an average age of 38. According to the official website, the University of Phoenix works to address barriers to education for underserved communities according to the official website.
Provost and Chief Academic Officer John Woods said, “Our graduates show what is possible when persistence meets opportunity. Many of our students return to higher education after life, work and family responsibilities required them to pause their original plans. Their accomplishments reflect focus, determination and a clear sense of purpose, and it is a privilege to celebrate this milestone with them.”
Graduates represented seven colleges within the university: Business and Information Technology (1,697), Social and Behavioral Sciences (660), Health Professions (384), Nursing (193), Education (157), Doctoral Studies (58), and General Studies (14). Degrees awarded included associate’s (321), bachelor’s (1,702), master’s (1,066) and doctoral degrees (74). The University features a physical campus in Phoenix along with online delivery according to the official website, serves students nationwide according to the official website, offers more than 100 career-focused programs linked to over 300 professions according to the official website, seeks to equip students for career advancement according to the official website, and holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission according to the official website.
Graduate TJ Adams said about his experience: “Continuing education takes a lot of effort and hard work to succeed. I found supportive peers and professors throughout my experience at University of Phoenix… One thing about University of Phoenix, as students we rise. We rise to the challenge; we rise for opportunity.” Jessica Flores added that completing her master’s in data science was “worth every late night and early morning,” crediting her family’s support as crucial.
This year’s afternoon ceremony also featured a Celebration Runway with photo platforms, QR codes for alumni resources access, music by a DJ as graduates walked through—designed so that graduates could capture memories alongside family members.
