Currently, IUP awards the same size (8.5x11 inches) diplomas to all degree recipients, regardless of the level of degree (Bachelor, Master, or Doctoral). Most universities award doctoral (with the exception of MD) degree recipients with 11x14 inch diplomas. When brought to their attention, IUP stated that PASSHE gives each university the right to design their own diplomas. IUP has consciously chosen to award the same size degrees to all graduates, implying that all degrees are the same. This choice ignores the additional time, effort, and money doctoral graduates have poured into their education. 

We need to let IUP know that having the proper recognition, while a small change for the school, would be significant for doctoral graduates. Doctoral graduates have worked for at least 5 years, some even longer, to achieve the highest education in their chosen field. We often display our diplomas in our places of work and it is important that IUP stand with most universities to honor doctoral graduates appropriately. The current diploma sizing paradigm at IUP is unacceptable. Show your support by signing this petition to urge IUP to conform to the largely-held standard of 11x14 inch diplomas for doctoral graduates.