Visual Identity
Official standards for using Rutgers' logos and other identity elements.
Rutgers is streamlining its brand with the Rutgers R to represent all units. Download the graphic files for the main marks and request a new signature by logging in to the signature generator.
The main marks have been added to the logo library on swag.rutgers.edu and can be applied to your orders for giveaways and promotional items.
Guidelines for aligning school, department, and unit names with the Rutgers R can be found in the Rutgers Visual Identity System User Guide and Quick Guide, which are both available for download.
You can also download new electronic business collateral, including PowerPoint templates, email signatures, and more.
Policy Information
A strong visual identity strengthens Rutgers. The Rutgers Visual Identity System, mandated by the Board of Governors in 2006, defines the standards for using Rutgers' logos and other identity elements.
The visual identity policy must be followed by everyone using Rutgers' name and logos.
What Does the Policy Do?
- States that the official logo, signatures, and marks in the visual identity system are the only sanctioned marks for use across the university.
- Mandates that no other marks or symbols replace the official Rutgers Visual Identity System.
- Requires all university units to use the Rutgers name and the visual identity system.
- Requires all university officers to support the proper use of the Rutgers name and the visual identity system and follow the policies and guidelines.
- Creates a minimum visual identity requirement for all communications on behalf of Rutgers to use the Rutgers logo as well as the appropriate Rutgers name.
How the Policy Affects You
The Rutgers Visual Identity System is a common set of graphic elements, colors, and symbols outlined for use by the university community. Using the visual identity system helps everyone quickly recognize Rutgers and immediately associate the stature of the university’s brand with its numerous units, services, and programs.
The official logos and visual identity elements in the system are the only sanctioned marks for use across the university. Download or create unit signatures using the Rutgers Signature Generator.
The Visual Identity User Guide has all the color, size, spacing, and usage details to help you use the Rutgers logos correctly.
How to use the Rutgers Visual Identity System
The Rutgers Visual Identity System provides specific guidelines and standards for using Rutgers' marks, signatures, and other identity elements in all university communications and on university-authorized products.
The Rutgers logos are federally protected trademarks. Permission to use these marks is granted solely to university units, faculty, staff, student groups, and approved vendors.
Rutgers staff and faculty must use the Rutgers visual identity on all forms of communications, including but not limited to:
- Print Materials: Including, but not limited to, flyers, brochures, advertisements, posters, etc.
- Digital Ads and Broadcast Email: Including, but not limited to, HTML emails, digital ads, Jumbotrons, e-newsletters or broadcast emails, blogs, wikis, and all other forms of electronic marketing or digital communications.
- Digital Badges: UCM has worked with Academic Affairs to develop required identity guidelines for digital badges. Templates are provided to create your own badge designs using these guidelines.
- Videos and Digital Displays: Including, but not limited to, television commercials, large digital screens, low-definition website videos, and high-definition documentaries.
- Websites: All university websites must include the Rutgers logo, with or without a signature, at the top of every webpage. For additional information, visit Website Resources.
- Internal Communications: Including, but not limited to, forms, presentations, flyers, and any other communications for Rutgers faculty, staff, and students.
- Merchandise: All forms of university branded promotional items including display materials, awards, apparel, nametags, or any other products or merchandise. Swag.rutgers.edu is designed to make ordering promotional products fast and convenient. All Rutgers-branded merchandise must be obtained from a vendor who has a trademark licensing agreement with the university.
- Stationery: Dupli Envelope & Graphics is a preferred vendor for ordering stationery items. Contact Dupli Envelope & Graphics, Maria Homer at mhomer@duplionline.com or 800-724-2477, ext. 7252.
- Clinical Attire: The university has contracted with Unitex to produce all lab coats. Work with University Procurement Services to order lab coats through the preferred vendor.
- Interior and Building Signage: Full signage standards are managed by Institutional Planning and Operations. Learn more about the process for requesting exterior or interior signage.
- Vehicle Signage: For information or requests related to branding university vehicles, contact Dave Haines at david.haines@rutgers.edu or 848-445-6760.
Examples of use and detailed guidelines can be found in the Visual Identity User Guide.