Sub-brand Signature

When to use

The sub-brand signature is a combination of the BU icon and one or more sub-brand logotypes. It is intended for internal use within the BU community, or for use informally on external communications when used with the University plate. It should not be used for formal external communications and should not appear on the same printed page with the University plate.

Signatures endorse and organize the University’s many academic, administrative, and clinical entities—along with sub-units and divisions—under a single institutional umbrella. They provide clear emphasis on the sub-brands while demonstrating their connection to the University. Our sub-brand signature is a comprehensive system to help the outside world understand our large and complex University.

The visual elements of the signature are specifically configured, placed, sized, and rendered in a precise relationship to create a unique visual character.

Signature Top-Tier—print or digital

For use with an internal audience. It requires that you know “BU” is Boston University. That’s why we use it for alumni and internal audiences and more informal settings. It is also used on our websites in special digital setups, because the University plate or sub-brand logotype in the footer of the website fully identifies the University.

Signature—print only

For use with an external audience, includes the full name “Boston University.”

Signature with department—print only

Departments and centers need to have their school or college name included in the sub-brand signature to define where the department fits within the University.

Signature with department—digital only

Departments and centers need to have their school or college name included in the sub-brand signature to define where the department fits within the University.

Give the logo its space. This is one of the most important things we’d like you to remember. This space is always required on print pieces.

The sub-brand signature has two options. It’s either two colors, BU Red and black, or just black. It should only be reversed out of those two colors. Visit our Colors page for detailed color specifications.

• Do give the logo the proper amount of clear space
• Do keep the logo in proportion
• Do reverse the logo on a red or black background

• Don’t put text or design elements too close to the logo
• Don’t warp or stretch the logo
• Don’t reverse the logo out of anything but red or black
• Don’t make your own sub-brand signature. In fact, we’ll give you one, just request it here
• Don’t place the sub-brand signatures on the same print page or website page with the University plate

You must be a staff or faculty to download logos. Students and third parties can request logos from a faculty or staff sponsor.