Campus and Medical Center Use
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Internal Use Licensing Policies
Vanderbilt University departments, schools, and registered student organizations can use the official Vanderbilt University and Vanderbilt University Medical Center marks on products and services.
General guidelines:
- The logos should not be altered in any fashion.
- The use of elements from the Vanderbilt signature or any modifications to Vanderbilt's logos, including official spirit marks, is prohibited
- The logos should have the proper trademark symbols (®, ™).
- The logos should not be used in association with a private business or used in a manner that might associate or imply endorsements by the University with an outside business or product without proper authorization from the University.
- The use of the University's names or logos in a manner that suggests or implies University support or endorsement of any movement, candidate for public office, or activity or program not officially sponsored by the University is not permitted.
- It is not permissible to create logos using Vanderbilt logos for a group or organization
Unacceptable Products/Services
Vanderbilt University will not approve the use of its name or marks to promote the following products: tobacco, controlled substances, sexually oriented products, weapons, alcohol (unless sold by the University at a University event), religious products, bathroom articles, profanity or games of chance.
The University will not approve the use of its name or marks with: text or graphics that are judged to be sexually suggestive, denigrating language by any group including another College or University, items that infringe on the marks of other trademark owners on products or services, or endorsement of political parties or candidates.
The University will not license products that: do not meet minimum standards of quality and/or taste, are judged to be dangerous or carry high product liability risks.
Registering a Trademark
Obtaining a federal trademark registration is a lengthy, and potentially costly, process. On average, expect it to take at least 6 months and cost $4,000 - $8,000 per class, per mark. For a deeper dive into the process and costs, please read our Trademark Guide and Questionnaire. If you have questions, please email brandengagement@vanderbilt.edu and someone will provide guidance on the process and next steps.