Queen’s University Belfast holds first ever pet graduation ceremony

Queen’s University Belfast recently conferred 25 ‘graduates’ in a relaxed graduation ceremony aimed at recognising furry friends who supported their humans during their time at university.

The graduating class of 2024 included several dogs, cats and even a dwarf hamster.

Maria Elena Calingasan Cariga and the dwarf hamster Roborovski Peaches. (Queen’s University Belfast)

The adorable four-legged friends were photographed on the red carpet before accepting Queen’s University Belfast’s honorary “dog-torate cat-ificate” degree in Pathological Sciences, Barketing, Furenic Pathology or Barketing.

Cavapoo Milo Carruthers. (Queen’s University Belfast)

The unofficial and informal ceremony was held at the university’s Lanyon Building.

According to the University, research shows that our furry friends make excellent study companions, as time spent with pets can improve concentration levels and reduce stress.

Baroque Architecture, Pathological Sciences, Furenic Pathology 🐾 The class of 2024 really did it all.

We know that pets reduce anxiety, so these four-legged friends play a vital role in helping our graduates change the world for the better.

Let’s give them a round of… photo.twitter.com/qLmKtVKosd

— Queen’s University Belfast 🎓 (@QUBelfast) July 10, 2024

Stephen Baxter-Crawford, Queen’s social media manager and organiser of the pet graduation, said: “Queen’s has been changing the world since 1845 and as we enter our 180th anniversary celebrations, we wanted to celebrate our graduates who are making a difference locally, nationally and globally.

“We know that pets reduce study anxiety. They’re there every step of the way, often listening as our students review and perhaps even gaining some knowledge themselves. So we wanted to acknowledge their commitment.

“Congratulations to the class of 2024 and everyone in their lives who helped them achieve their dreams.”

Sammy the Black Labrador. (Queen’s University Belfast)

Celebrating with Rico, his 13-year-old Jack Russell, Queen’s graduate Michael Murphy said: “I’m delighted to see Rico and the support he gave me throughout my studies being recognised and celebrated by the University, and it’s exciting to be part of history at the first pet graduation ceremony of its kind in the UK.

“Despite being a mature student in dog years, Rico is still full of energy and has been a great comfort during my studies. I’m delighted to see his efforts recognised and to have another Queen’s graduate in the family!”

Rico and Michael Murphy. (Queen’s University Belfast)

Another Queen’s graduate, Aaron Christie, was in attendance at the pet graduation with his cat Raphael.

“I am thrilled to see Raphael’s continued support being recognized and rewarded by the University,” Christie said.

“It’s great to be a part of this ceremony as pets are such an essential part of the family. We would all be lost without them.

Raphael the cat with owner Aaron Christie. (Queen’s University Belfast)

“Raphael has been one of my best friends throughout my studies at Queen’s; always there to give you a warm hug when you least expect it but when you really need it, even if he has to step on my laptop!

“I am grateful to have their contributions to my degree formally awarded and it would be great to see this tradition continue in the years to come.”