Student Guide for Using the Trademarks

The marks of the University include the seal, the UCCS graphicmark, the athletics mountain lion, and the words "University of Colorado," "UCCS," "University of Colorado Colorado Springs," and "Mountain Lions." It also includes items in which there may be a likelihood of confusion regarding the origin of the goods and/or services, such as the use of the word "Colorado" in the school colors of black, gold, or silver, or the use of a likeness of a mountain lion to imply affiliation with the University.

The University has registered its marks in the state of Colorado and the Federal Patent and Trademark Office since 1981 and internationally since 1992. This ensures protection of the integrity and identity of the University. By ensuring that products bearing the University marks are of high quality and good taste, we further promote University of Colorado's reputation as one of the nation's finest universities. Proper use of the University's name also stimulates public awareness and support.

Prior written permission is needed from the Office of Licensing Programs for use of the University name or marks. This requirement also applies to independent student groups and organizations who wish to make use of the University name or identifying marks in conjunction with their group or activities.

Using the University's Name

An independent student group may make use of the University name in its title, publications or letterhead, but may not use the name in a manner that in any way would constitute an endorsement, approval or underwriting of any organization, product, activity, service, or contract by the University of Colorado.

Permissible: College Democrats at The University of Colorado

Not Permissible: UCCS College Democrats/University of Colorado College Democrats

As a general rule the University name cannot precede the name of the organization.

Cost centers of the Student Government Association may use the University's name preceding the center's name. For example, UCCS Campus Recreation, University of Colorado Environmental Center. This permission extends to club sports organized under the program control of the University.

Student Organization Graphic Identity

Student organizations are not required to follow the UCCS Brand Identity Standards set for graphic identities for university units. Student organizations can create their own logos, which must be completely distinct from university logos and cannot be based in any way on existing UCCS trademarks. Use of any UCCS trademarks must be separate from any student organization graphics.

All uses of UCCS trademarks by student organizations—included the use of our campus logo in materials developed to promote student organization programming or events—require review by the university brand manager. 

Using the University's Marks

With the exception of game day uniforms for UCCS Collegiate Sport Clubs affiliated with Recreation Services, the UCCS athletics logo may not be used as a student organization logo.

Student organizations are prohibited from using the University seal or logos on letterheads, business cards, or other identifying materials. Such student organizations may receive permission from the Office of Licensing Programs to utilize a University mark for a special event which the University co-sponsors the event.

Royalties

All products or services bearing the University's name and/or logos must be purchased from or contracted with licensed companies and will be assessed a royalty fee. Purchases by student organizations and club sports for resale to members (even if the goods are resold at cost) are not exempt from royalties.

For More Information

If you have questions about proper usage of the University name or registered marks, contact the Office of Licensing Programs.

See also CU Licensing Policy