Penn State, officially known as The Pennsylvania State University, is renowned for its rich history, academic excellence, and vibrant athletic programs. The university's brand identity is deeply rooted in its colors, which play a significant role in representing the institution's spirit and tradition. The primary colors associated with Penn State are blue and white, but there are also secondary and tertiary colors that contribute to the university's visual identity.
Primary Colors: Blue and White

The primary colors of Penn State are navy blue and white. These colors are used across various university applications, including athletic uniforms, marketing materials, and official branding. Navy blue, in particular, is a distinctive and iconic color that represents Penn State’s legacy and excellence. It is used as the primary color for the university’s logo and is often paired with white to create a visually striking contrast. White, on the other hand, symbolizes purity, innocence, and simplicity, which are values that the university strives to uphold.
Secondary Colors: Dark Grey and Light Grey
In addition to the primary colors, Penn State also uses dark grey and light grey as secondary colors. These neutral colors provide a versatile and modern contrast to the traditional blue and white. Dark grey is often used as an accent color to add depth and sophistication, while light grey is used to create a clean and minimalist look. Both grey shades are used in various design applications, including digital media, print materials, and environmental graphics.
| Color | Pantone Color Code | Hex Code |
|---|---|---|
| Navy Blue | 2965C | #032B44 |
| White | White | #FFFFFF |
| Dark Grey | 432C | #666666 |
| Light Grey | 432C (20%) | #CCCCCC |

Key Points
- Penn State's primary colors are navy blue and white, which represent the university's legacy and tradition.
- The secondary colors, dark grey and light grey, provide a modern and versatile contrast to the primary colors.
- The strategic use of these colors helps to create a strong visual identity and reinforces brand recognition.
- The colors are used consistently across various platforms, including athletic uniforms, marketing materials, and official branding.
- The university's color palette is designed to evoke a sense of school spirit and community among students, alumni, and fans.
Tertiary Colors: Penn State’s Expanded Color Palette

In addition to the primary and secondary colors, Penn State also uses a range of tertiary colors to enhance its visual identity. These colors include various shades of blue, grey, and white, which are used to create a cohesive and harmonious color scheme. The tertiary colors are often used in specific contexts, such as digital media, print materials, or environmental graphics, to add depth and visual interest to the university’s branding.
Penn State’s Color Palette in Action
The university’s color palette is used consistently across various platforms, including athletic uniforms, marketing materials, and official branding. The colors are carefully selected to evoke a sense of school spirit and community among students, alumni, and fans. By leveraging its primary, secondary, and tertiary colors, Penn State creates a strong visual identity that resonates with its audience and reinforces its brand recognition.
What are the primary colors of Penn State?
+The primary colors of Penn State are navy blue and white.
What are the secondary colors of Penn State?
+The secondary colors of Penn State are dark grey and light grey.
How are Penn State’s colors used in branding and marketing?
+Penn State’s colors are used consistently across various platforms, including athletic uniforms, marketing materials, and official branding, to create a strong visual identity and reinforce brand recognition.