The Informal University Seal
The informal seal has been specifically created for use with the Rutgers logotype when an additional graphic element is desired for visual interest. It is also an alternative way to provide the full name of the university. The logotype and seal cannot be resized, rotated, or altered in any way.

Refer to the Visual Identity Manual [PDF–10MB] (page 2.7) for detailed information on the use of the informal seal.



Like the university's formal seal, the sun figures prominently in the informal seal design. The presence of the sun symbol is significant because it draws upon the university's motto, "Sun of righteousness, shine upon the West also." The motto is an adaptation of the motto of the University of Utrecht in the Netherlands, connoting Rutgers' founding in 1766 as Queen's College and the original college's early affiliation with the Dutch Reformed Church. Today, the symbol is interpreted as a request for the enlightenment of learning to shine equally upon the New World.

Using the Informal University Seal
The informal seal may be used with the Rutgers logotype alone—this is the preferred use of the informal seal—or it may be used with the universitywide signature or with any of the three regional campus signatures.





Note: Using the informal seal as a web graphic diminishes its resolution and makes the details of the seal appear fuzzy. Therefore it is not recommended that you use a signature with the informal seal as a web graphic. The best way to use the informal seal on the web is as a background element or watermark in a web banner.

Sample website page with the informal seal as a background element

Using the Logotype and Signatures

Size and Space Requirements
Detailed information about size and space requirements for the logotype is also available. Refer to the Visual Identity Manual [PDF–10MB] (pages 2.11–2.12).

Unacceptable Uses

• The informal seal may not be used in place of the Rutgers logotype.
• The informal seal may not be used with unit signatures.
• The informal seal may not be used as a freestanding logo. However, it may appear as a secondary decorative or design element.
• The informal seal may not be used with the state university signature, which includes the university's full name, because this would be redundant.
• The informal seal does not work well as part of an email signature.
• The seal cannot be rotated or changed in any way.

The informal seal and signature is available for download with the other universitywide graphics.

The Official University Seal
The official university seal has very limited use, primarily on official university documents, such as contracts, deeds, and academic diplomas. It can be used, with authorization, as a design element on certain ceremonial communications, such as formal invitations. All such uses require prior approval from the Office of the Vice President for University Relations.

Using the Official University Seal
Refer to the Visual Identity Manual [PDF–10MB] (page 2.6) for detailed information about the use of the official seal.

Unacceptable Use
The official university seal is a stand-alone mark of the university and may not be combined with the Rutgers logotype.

Need More Help?
Refer to the FAQs, use the site map, or contact the visual identity project manager.

Resources

• Size and Space Requirements for Logotype and Signatures
• Visual Identity Manual [PDF–10MB]
• Rutgers Editorial Style Guide
• Request Form

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