University of Colorado Boulder brand guidelines
University of Colorado Boulder offers guidelines covering editorial voice, campus lockups, design treatments, and partner communication networks.
Campus lockups and marks documentation displaying signature anatomy, sizing guidelines, and Ralphie athletics marks.
Communications partners portal outlining executive boards, leadership councils, and internal Teams channel access.
Writing on Brand guide highlighting positioning, key messaging pillars, and personality traits.
Designing on Brand page showing Helvetica Neue type treatments, clear space, merchandise tips, and infographics.
Editorial guidance page detailing mission statements, audience breakdowns, and brand language tools.
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I like how CU Boulder structures this portal to balance broad university storytelling with specific departmental mechanics. The breakdown between verbal positioning and practical layout assets is remarkably clear. You can move easily from strategic value propositions straight into typography rules, merchandise approvals, and athletic marks like Ralphie. Connecting the guidance to an active community by inviting staff into an internal Teams channel also makes the brand feel lived in rather than merely policed from afar. It serves as a grounded reference that unites internal writers, designers, and campus partners around one clear visual language.
At a glance
- Sections
- Brand · Resources · What We Do · Our Team · Our Partners · Contact Us
- Tone
- Clear, practical, and supportive guidance tailored for a large university network.
What I noticed
- The campus lockups page details clear space rules based on the height of the 'U' in 'University' alongside minimum width specs.12
- The writing section features eight brand personality traits displayed across two cards, accompanied by expandable pillars for messages and rankings.345
- The design section outlines typography rules using Helvetica Neue Condensed or Regular with an 8pt minimum size for type treatments.67
- A dedicated partners page provides direct action links to request joining the internal Communicators Teams Channel.8
Numbers refer to the screenshots above.
What I could not see
- Direct asset file downloads were not observed on the captured screens.
- Guidelines for photography and motion were not captured in this evidence bundle.
Ideas to borrow
- Integrate internal community onboarding buttons, such as a Teams channel invite, directly within brand partner pages to encourage cross-departmental collaboration.8
Quick answers
What is the primary typeface required for CU Boulder type treatments?
CU Boulder specifies using Helvetica Neue Condensed or Regular for type treatments alongside brand colors.6
How is clear space measured for the CU Boulder lockup?
Clear space is determined by the height of the 'U' in 'University'.1
Reviewed on 25 September 2026. Request a correction · I built this