myCSUSM
Why It Matters
All CSUSM promotional materials, publications, and communications contribute to the recipient's perception of the university and leave an impression of our departments. All official materials should be visually and thematically cohesive and follow this guide in order to promote professionalism and reinforce the CSUSM brand identity.
Helpful Links
Download university logos
Request an identity extension logo
Questions? Email us at publicity@csusm.edu
Request an identity extension logo
Questions? Email us at publicity@csusm.edu
University Visual Identity System
Logo Hierarchy
The CSUSM logo system is composed of two tiers: university marks and campus unit logos.
The logo system is strictly managed by University Communications. No other university logos may be created by any unit other than University Communications.
Which file type should I use?
- EPS - Vector file for professional printing and production. Scales without losing quality.
- PDF - Print-ready file. Send to vendors and commercial printers for professionally printed materials. Avoid using JPGs for print.
- PNG - Best for digital use, social media and presentations. Use the white reverse logo on dark backgrounds.
Primary Logo: Stacked
✅ Use this version whenever possible.
The primary mark of the university. The stacked variation should be used on all official
documents, signage, and materials.
Download the primary logo
Primary Logo: Horizontal
A secondary variation of the primary logo. Completely acceptable to use when space
requires a wider format. May be used with or without the hills icon.
Download the primary horizontal logo
Secondary Logo: Initials Only
A stylized version of the university initials. Primarily for use in university documents
that are stylistically more informal or for internal audiences, as well as clothing
and merchandise. Not a replacement for the primary logo.
Download the secondary logo
Secondary Logo: Initials with Hills
A stylized version of the university initials. Primarily for use in university documents
that are stylistically more informal or for internal audiences, as well as clothing
and merchandise. Not a replacement for the primary logo.
Download the secondary with hills logo
University Seal
The most formal university mark. Reserved strictly for official presidential communications — diplomas, certificates, and formal stationery.
This is restricted use only. Use requires approval from the Office of the President. Contact pres@csusm.edu for assistance.
Campus Identity Extension Logos
All CSUSM colleges, departments, divisions, offices, and programs use an official lockup — the university logo paired with your unit name in a standardized format. These logos highlight each unit's connection to the broader university identity. All lockups are created and provided by University Communications. Do not create your own.
Logo information
Both primary logo (hills + wordmark) and secondary logo (CSUSM initials) lockup
versions are available for all levels. Contact University Communications to receive
your official files.
Request an identity extension logo
Request an identity extension logo
Standalone Lockup
For location-based, structurally distinct, or auxiliary entities. University logo paired with the name only in all caps bold — no parent division listed.
Level 1 Lockup
For colleges, divisions, and central presidential offices. Parent structure descriptor (College of / Division of / Office of) in italics with the specific unit name in all caps bold below.
Level 2 Lockup
For departments, majors, units, sub-offices, and programs within a college or division. Parent college or division in italics above; department name in all caps bold.
Primary vs. Secondary Logo Usage
The university's primary logo includes the organization's name in full and should be used whenever possible to
represent the university to formal, external audiences.
The secondary logo with initials can be used internally as well as for external documents that are stylistically more
informal and communications to known, familiar audiences, as well as clothing and
merchandise.
Exceptions
CSUSM's institutional brand is intended to provide a cohesive identity across the university. The only exceptions are:
- Associated Students, Inc. (ASI)
- Student Life Centers & Leadership
- Student Organizations
- Faculty-Staff Associations
- Officially recognized Centers and Institutes
These have historically maintained separate identities due to independent governance, funding, or mission-specific needs. Although these entities are permitted to retain their established visual identities, they remain valued members of the CSUSM community and are encouraged to incorporate university brand guidelines where appropriate to strengthen the collective identity of the institution.
Incorrect Usage
The CSUSM logo system is composed of two tiers: university marks and campus unit logos.
The logo system is strictly managed by University Communications. No other university
logos may be created by any unit other than University Communications.
- ❌ Do not warp or stretch the logo
- ❌ Do not skew the logo
- ❌ Do not add a drop shadow or any other effects
- ❌ Do not use unapproved color combinations
- ❌ Do not use unapproved colors in the logo
- ❌ Do not place the logo on a color that does not provide sufficient contrast
- ❌ Do not crop or remove any parts of the logo
- ❌ Do not rearrange elements of the logo
- ❌ Do not add additional information or elements of the logo
- ❌ Do not use the logo on an angle
- ❌ Do not place the logo on visually distracting backgrounds
- ❌ Do not use any parts of the logo to create a new logo
Events and Campaigns
CSUSM maintains a limited set of additional approved graphic elements beyond the primary
university logo. These support the brand in specific contexts but do not replace the
official logos in formal communications.
At times, signature initiatives and major university-wide events may require distinct
visual expressions. These are extensions of the CSUSM brand — not independent brands
— and must be created in collaboration with University Communications.
Have questions about the brand?
University Communications is here to help — whether you need a logo file, brand approval, or guidance on these guidelines.