When is a degree considered awarded upon completion of course work or the later graduation?

A degree is considered awarded at graduation. While you complete the coursework *to earn* the degree, the actual awarding of the degree is a formal process that happens at the graduation ceremony or, in some cases, shortly afterward when the university officially records the degree conferral. You might receive a transcript showing completion of coursework before graduation, but that's not the same as the degree being officially awarded.