The University, like virtually all other institutions and businesses in the United States, has developed policies controlling the use of trademark language and logos because these marks symbolize our purpose, values, and traditions. Terms protected by trademark law include University of North Carolina, UNC, Carolina, and Tar Heels. Protected logos include the Old Well, the University seal, the interlocking NC, and the Strutting Ram. The logos of the University's constituent elements (schools, centers, and programs) are also protected marks.

Students and faculty at the University are free to use any of the UNC trademarks to promote their own groups and academic interests. However, any merchandise produced that uses a University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill trademark must be produced by a vendor licensed by the University. The vendor is responsible for paying the require royalties, if any, to the University. All of the money generated by the licensing program is used to fund scholarships.

In general, if a logo product is to be sold, even if it is only to the members of the group ordering the product, a royalty must be paid to the University. If the logo product is given away, royalties do not need to be paid. A licensed vendor will make the determination as to whether royalties should be paid and will handle the payments, if needed.

Merchandise bearing University trademarks must also conform to a few other guidelines. Of particular note to us in pharmacy is that no references to alcohol, drugs or tobacco-related products may be used in conjunction with University marks. This policy does not distinguish between medicines and illicit drugs. Keep that in mind.

University marks may not be used in conjunction with the marks of commercial entities without explicit written permission from UNC Trademarks and Licensing.

Feel free to contact David Etchison, director of communications, with any questions at 966-7744 or david_etchison@unc.edu.

UNC-Chapel Hill Trademarks and Licensing

Approved Local Vendors

Complete List of Licensed Vendors