Graduating students gathered in Aberdeen yesterday to celebrate reaching the end of their studies.
Hundreds of Aberdeen University students toasted their success at Elphinstone Hall, in the King's College campus, Old Aberdeen.
Students from the life sciences and physical sciences departments collected qualifications on the first day of the university's winter graduation ceremonies.
Addressing the graduates, Professor Neva Haites, vice-principal and head of the college of life sciences, told them they were now a part of the university’s five centuries of history.
She said: “As you receive your degrees you will be joining a family of graduates with a long tradition that stretches back in an unbroken line for more than 500 years.
“Your degree from Aberdeen University will stand you in good stead.
“Graduation is, after all, not the end but just the beginning, so be proud of your alma matter, be ambitious and be true to yourself.”
Proud family members clapped and cheered as the students, dressed in caps and gowns, walked onstage to receive their hard-earned degrees.
Professor David Macdonald, head of the school of geosciences, urged the graduating students to pay tribute to the friends and family who supported them throughout their studies.
He said: “There are some people in this hall who are not wearing gowns – they are parents, family, husbands, wives and friends.
“They are not getting a degree today, but they have contributed to your success with financial support, moral support and love. So please make a lot of noise to celebrate their achievement in getting you all to this ceremony today.”
The hall, decorated with Saltire flags, has been used for the graduation ceremonies since last year, when work began to turn the previous venue, Marischal College, into Aberdeen City Council's new headquarters.