Student achievements highlighted as graduates prepare for in-demand careers

University of Phoenix hosted its fall 2025 commencement ceremony in Las Vegas on September 26–27 at the Thomas & Mack Center, honoring the achievements of 4,361 registered graduates. A total of 13,374 guests filled the arena for the ceremonies, which took place over two days, cheering on students as they crossed the stage, many of them the first in their families to earn a degree. The event honored academic success and the determination and commitment that defines the University’s adult learners.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251009135091/en/

University of Phoenix graduates gather at the 2025 commencement ceremony, held in Las Vegas on September 26–27 at the Thomas & Mack Center.

University of Phoenix students are workers, parents, caregivers and community engagers. Their average age is 36, and 60 percent are first-generation college graduates. For many, life intervened after high school, and their goal of a college degree is now being realized.

"Commencement is more than a ceremony. It’s a celebration of resilience," said John Woods, Ph.D., provost and chief academic officer at University of Phoenix, who delivered the commencement address. "Our graduates have balanced work, family and life while pursuing their education. They begin their next chapter not only with degrees, but with career-relevant skills, confidence, and a clear sense of purpose. These are tools that will empower them to lead, contribute, and thrive in their communities."

Among this year’s graduates is Patrick Robinson, whose path to commencement was shaped by perseverance in the face of adversity. Growing up with limited opportunities and few positive role models, Robinson struggled to find direction. Yet despite these early challenges, he remained committed to his academic journey and earned his Master of Public Administration degree.

"Life dealt me a challenging hand from the start," Robinson said.

He became a father to eight children at a young age. While some might view that as an overwhelming obstacle, Robinson saw it as a turning point. "For many, this would be an insurmountable obstacle. But for me, it was the catalyst for change. My kids became my everything, and I knew I had to give them a better life than what I had growing up."

Motivated by that responsibility, Robinson began reshaping his life with focus and discipline. "With fierce determination, I began the arduous journey of pulling myself out of the darkness,” he continued. “I left behind my old life, focusing relentlessly on work. Through sheer grit and unwavering dedication, I not only started making good money but also began achieving goals I once thought impossible."

His academic achievement represents a moment of personal triumph and transformation. "The pinnacle of my academic aspirations came when I earned my master’s degree, a testament to my intellect and perseverance. My story is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to rewrite your narrative, especially when fueled by the love and responsibility for those who depend on you. My journey from adversity to academic and financial success is something I’m incredibly proud of."

Robinson’s journey reflects the University’s commitment to support working adults in achieving their goals through a flexible, career-relevant education. The ceremony celebrated graduates from all seven colleges, highlighting the University’s diverse academic programs designed to meet students where they are and help them move forward:

• College of Business and Information Technology: 2,533 registered graduates (472 associate, 1,468 bachelor’s, 593 master’s)
• College of Doctoral Studies: 72 registered graduates
• College of Education: 175 registered graduates (54 bachelor’s, 121 master’s)
• College of General Studies: 27 bachelor’s degrees
• College of Health Professions: 543 registered graduates (318 bachelor’s, 225 master’s)
• College of Nursing: 182 registered graduates (59 bachelor’s, 116 master’s, 7 doctoral)
• College of Social and Behavioral Sciences: 829 registered graduates (117 associate, 411 bachelor’s, 301 master’s)

These numbers reflect not only the scale of the graduating class, but also the individual stories of growth and ambition behind each degree. One of those stories belongs to Oscar Castro, who earned his master’s degree after taking a break from school.

"My journey at University of Phoenix was all about returning to achieve a long-held unfinished personal goal," Castro shared. "Like a Phoenix, I rose from the ashes of a past dropout and came back to earn my master's in information systems. This degree is proof that it’s never too late to rebuild and chase a dream."

Castro celebrated his academic achievement surrounded by loved ones, including his girlfriend, who attended the ceremony to cheer him on as he received his degree. In a moment that made the day even more memorable, Castro proposed to her during the ceremony, turning a milestone into a lifelong memory.

"The support I received from my instructors and fellow alumni was constant and essential to my success," Castro said. "But the most meaningful support came from my fiancée, who stood by me through every early morning assignment and every challenge. Having her there made graduation unforgettable, and proposing to her during the ceremony made the celebration truly extraordinary."

"My next great accomplishment will be marrying my best friend and pursuing my future career," Castro continued. "Ultimately, I hope my story encourages others. If you're out there questioning your first step, take it now. The journey of a thousand miles begins with that decision. You won’t regret it."

This year’s ceremony featured a “Celebration Runway,” designed to help create a memorable graduation experience. The runway featured several platforms for photo opportunities, QR codes to help graduates quickly access alumni benefits, and a DJ playing celebration music as students enjoyed the runway. The Celebration Runway was designed to allow more opportunities for students to capture their graduation experience and spend time celebrating with friends and family.

Learn more here about commencement ceremonies at University of Phoenix.

About University of Phoenix

University of Phoenix innovates to help working adults enhance their careers and develop skills in a rapidly changing world. Flexible schedules, relevant courses, interactive learning, skills-mapped curriculum for our bachelor’s and master’s degree programs and a Career Services for Life^® commitment help students more effectively pursue career and personal aspirations while balancing their busy lives. For more information, visit phoenix.edu/blog.html.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251009135091/en/