THOUSANDS of university students are preparing to celebrate finishing their degrees when they graduate next week.

More than 3,700 students will graduate from the University of Worcester during a week of celebrations held at the city's Cathedral.

Students and their families will fill the cathedral for each of the nine ceremonies, to be held over four days between Tuesday, November 1 and Friday, November 4.

University Vice Chancellor and chief executive, Professor David Green, said: "The beauty and grandeur of Worcester Cathedral provides a magnificent, most fitting setting in which to congratulate our graduates and to thank the parents, family, friends and supporters who have contributed so much to their success.

"Throughout the week, we celebrate the achievements of our graduates who now move to be the next generation of scientists, nurses, teachers, midwives, early years, health care and education professionals and more.

"Our graduates, in subjects such as business, psychology, computing, sports science and coaching, are well-equipped to progress in the fast-paced world of today’s professional workplace, while our many actors, artists, authors and designers are already helping to produce the dynamic, creative culture which is such an important feature of a civilised society.

"Our graduates of 2016 join an illustrious community of over 100,000 Worcester graduates who have made and are making an immense contribution to British society."

Post-ceremony receptions will be held at the University of Worcester Arena, as well as the Graduation Dinner, at which the achievements of a number of students will be recognised.

The University’s Founding Chancellor, His Royal Highness The Duke of Gloucester KG GCVO, will preside over Friday afternoon’s ceremony.

The University will also award a number of honorary degrees during the week. Among this year’s recipients are poet Patience Agbabi, playwright David Edgar, Paralympian Lord Chris Holmes, and former CEO of Bosch Thermotechnology Ltd, Richard Soper CBE.

The university is also hosting two Open Days this week, on Friday, October 28, and Saturday, October 29.

For more information visit worcester.ac.uk