Logos and Marks
NC State is built on bricks — and the NC State brick logo is the cornerstone of our brand.
Logo Usage
The NC State brick logo is an official representation of NC State University. It both identifies and defines us. It appears on all official university communications. Its directness, hard edges and unadorned type fit who we are: We are purposeful. We are modern. We are NC State.
Our logo must appear in a prominent place on all communications. While it is a singular design concept, different versions are available for different contexts.
4×1
2×2
2×1
4×1
2×2
2×1
There are three configurations of both the brick and the logotype.
4×1
2×2
2×1
A white brick is also available. If the white brick is used in print, it must be rendered in true white — using either white paper stock or white ink.
4×1
2×2
2×1
4×1
2×2
2×1
4×1
2×2
2×1
4×1
2×2
2×1
The logo versions containing red are preferred. Black-and-white versions can be be used when a piece already contains plenty of red or a print piece uses exclusively black ink.
The 2×1 logo’s simplicity allows it to stand out from a distance or when space is at a premium.
Use a logo that includes the word “university” when a key audience might confuse us with other North Carolina state entities.
The Logo in Layout
The logo must have a prominent position in every external communication. The designer can choose its position to suit the piece.
Don’t crowd the logo. Measure the width of the letter N in “NC State.” Type and any other design ornaments should be at least that far from the logo.
Use the logo at an appropriate size. The minimum size guidelines above address legibility and accessibility concerns for both print and digital use.
The logo should never be recreated, adorned or elaborated upon.
The proportions of the logo should never be altered or warped.
No part of our logo is transparent; elements that are designed in white should always be rendered in white.
If rendering in white is not possible, using the logotype alone is an option.
Downloadable Logos
These files are font-independent. The PNG files of the NC State brick are available in several sizes for use on the web. The EPS files are the only acceptable choice for print pieces, as they are line-art vector files that will scale cleanly to any size.
The NC State brick logo is a registered trademark of the university. As a public institution, we are typically not allowed to endorse another party’s products, goods or services. Do not use the logo in any communication that identifies, promotes or advertises an outside entity’s products, goods or services unless you have received prior permission from the university via a contract or a trademark license agreement.
For more information, consult NC State’s Trademark Licensing office.
Logos and Marks for Units
Other NC State Marks
Certain historical NC State logos and marks remain the exclusive property of NC State and are not permitted to be used without express written permission from the university’s Office of Strategic Brand Management.
Permission to use historical trademarks will generally be granted only in those instances where the context of the mark is clear and appropriate, like the anniversary of special events, reunions or historical projects.
