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Graphic Standards > Wordmark and Logo Guidelines
Wordmark and Logo Guidelines

Wordmark and Logo Guidelines
To download approved versions of the wordmark, block M and Golden Eagle logo, go to the University of Minnesota, Crookston Images Library (log on required).

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Wordmark
The wordmark is our official logo. Include it on all publications and other visual communications developed for the University. Student organizations may not use the wordmark and should use the block M instead.

 

 

 

 

 

Color
Use the wordmark in the University's official Colors or use it in black and white. For example, on a two-color, purple-and-black printed piece, use the black version. Never screen the wordmark or print over it. You may print it over backgrounds and photos if there's enough contrast.

 

Buffer Space
Leave a buffer space the height of the letter "N" between the wordmark and other graphic elements or the edge of the page.

 

Placement
Place the wordmark at the top or bottom of a piece on the cover or front, where it isn't overshadowed by other elements.

 

Minimum Size
Minimum size of the word "Minnesota":

  • 7/8" (.875"): for paper sizes 3" x 5" and larger
  • 5/8" (.625"): for paper sizes smaller than 3" x 5"
  • On larger pieces, such as a banner, the wordmark should be sized to ensure legibility and prominence.

 

Correct and Incorrect Use of the Wordmark
The following are examples of incorrect ways to use the wordmark, plus correct alternatives.

INCORRECT: Wordmark is incorporated into a sentence.
CORRECT
INCORRECT: Adjacent type attempts to duplicate the wordmark type style
CORRECT
INCORRECT: Insufficient buffer space around the wordmark.
CORRECT
INCORRECT: The wordmark should not be sandwiched between two elements.
CORRECT

 


Block M
The block M says "University of Minnesota" to everyone who sees it. All colleges, departments, student organizations and other units are encouraged to use it, as opposed to creating an individual logo identity. The block M is available at the Crookston campus Images Library.

  • Use the approved, unaltered Crookston campus version only (as shown below) – sizes may vary.
  • Use the block M in addition to the wordmark, not as a substitute for it (except student organizations, which may not use the wordmark).
  • The block M may NOT be blended or incorporated into other logos except as prescribed in the Wordmark and Block M Combinations section.
  • The block M may not be placed on an angle or cut off.

Recommended for most communications

 

Buffer Space
Leave a buffer space the height of the M serif between the block M and graphic elements or the edge of the page.

 

Minimum Size

  • 1/2" (.50"): for paper sizes 3" x 5" and larger
  • 2/5" (.40"): for paper sizes smaller than 3" x 5".

  • On larger pieces, such as a banner, the block M should be sized to ensure legibility.

 

Block M as a Graphic Element
University Relations must approve any design that uses the block M as a graphic element as shown below. This includes designs that:

  • Use the block M in a pattern.
  • Crop, screen or otherwise alter the logo.

Shown at 45% of actual size.

 


Wordmark and Block M Combinations
The wordmark guidelines also apply to wordmark and block M combinations.

 

 

 

 

Promotional wordmark and block M combo

 

 

Buffer Space
Leave a buffer space the height of the letter "N" between the wordmark and block M combination and other graphic elements or the edge of the page.


Placement
Place the wordmark and block M combination at the top or bottom of a piece on the cover or front, where it isn't overshadowed by other elements.

Minimum Size
Minimum size of the word "Minnesota":

  • 7/8" (.875"): for paper sizes 3" x 5" and larger
  • 5/8" (.625"): for paper sizes smaller than 3" x 5".

 


Golden Eagle logo

The Golden Eagle logo can be found in the Crookston campus Images Library.

  1. The Golden Eagle logo adopted by the Image and Marketing Committee on April 9, 2001, is the official University of Minnesota, Crookston Golden Eagle Logo to be used as a major mark. The Golden Eagle is registered as a trademark
  2. The Golden Eagle logo always faces left. It does not include a background.
  3. The use of any other Golden Eagle Logo marks is not approved for use.
  4. The buffer zone for the Golden Eagle logo is 1/4”.

 


Wordmark and Unit Combinations
The wordmark may not be incorporated or blended into another logo or name. It may be used in combination with a unit's own logo. Combining the wordmark with your unit's logo or name communicates your unique connection to the University.

Templates have been created for combining a unit logo with the wordmark. Please contact Printing & Design for support.

 


Regents Seal
The Regents seal is reserved for awards, gifts and events involving the Board of Regents or documents bearing the signature of the president or a vice president, chancellor or dean. Contact University Relations at urUMC@umn.edu for approval.