Primary University Core Colors

The University of Utah's core brand colors are Utah Red, Black, White, and Zion Cinder Cone. These are the only approved colors for use in all official University logos, marks, and institutional branding. Among these, Utah Red is the primary and most prominently used color. It has served as a defining element of the University’s identity since the late 1800s and remains central to its visual representation. As such, Utah Red must be prioritized in all designs that represent the institution. 

Utah Red is deeply embedded in the University’s culture and should be used consistently to strengthen brand recognition across all media. Projects originating from or affiliated with the University must feature Utah Red as the leading brand color, with black and white supporting as secondary elements. 

Digital Applications 

For digital media, Utah Red must be rendered using the correct RGB or HEX values. CMYK or SPOT color values must not be used for digital formats, as they are intended for print and will not ensure accurate color rendering on screens. 

Print and Physical Media 

For print and other physical applications, Utah Red must be reproduced using the specified CMYK or SPOT color values. Designers and vendors are required to use the official “Utah Red Color Sample” to ensure accurate color reproduction across all forms, including ink, paint, dye, and other pigments. 

Official Utah Red color samples are available through University Marketing and Communications and University Print and Mail Services. All color reproduction must be visually matched to the official sample—approximations or unapproved variants are not permitted. 

Accent Colors

To maintain the integrity and consistency of the University of Utah’s brand, accent colors should be used with care and restraint. These colors are allowed only in a clearly limited and secondary role within University communications. They must never overshadow or compete with the University’s core brand colors: Utah Red, Black, White, and Zion Cinder Cone.

Accent colors may be used sparingly to meet specific design needs, such as enhancing data visualizations (e.g., charts, graphs, or infographics), or to introduce subtle visual variety in niche applications. However, they should never dominate a layout, be used in primary brand elements, or diminish the visual impact of the primary colors.

Using secondary colors as the main or stand-alone palette is strongly discouraged, as it compromises brand consistency and recognition.

Accent colors:

• May not be used in conjunction with any University logos or official marks.
• Must never be used to represent or substitute for core branding.
• May not exceed 10% of the overall design composition in any format—print or digital.

Designers are required to maintain strict adherence to this policy in all materials representing the University.

Accent Color Examples