Typefaces

Consistent use of our primary typefaces, Open Sans and Source Serif Pro, makes our communications recognizable and distinctive.

Open Sans

A sans-serif typeface for modern and crisp typography. Optimized for print, web and mobile interfaces, Open Sans is available free for all media and performs well on both Windows and Macintosh operating systems.

If Open Sans is not available or practical (such as when sharing a live document outside of the university), substitute Helvetica.

 

Download Open Sans

 

Source Serif Pro

A serif typeface for heightened sophistication and a traditional feel. Source Serif Pro is license-free and available on both Windows and Macintosh platforms. This typeface reads well in long copy at the middle weights and creates attractive headlines in varying weights.

If Source Serif Pro is not available or practical (such as when sharing a live document outside of the university), substitute Times.

 

Download Source Serif Pro

 

Typeface Pairing Samples

Finding the right balance between fonts is both an art and a science. To help you visualize how different styles interact, we’ve curated a selection of typeface pairings ranging from clean and corporate to bold and expressive. Explore the examples below to see how these combinations can set the tone and enhance the readability of your next project.

 

Modern Example

This example shows the words Sample Headline typeset in Open Sans Semibold, with both words capitalized. Below the headline is a paragraph typeset in Open Sans Light.

Informative Example

This example shows the words Sample Headline typeset in Source Serif Pro Semibold, with both words capitalized. Below the headline is a paragraph typeset in Source Serif Pro Regular.

 

Clean Example

This example shows the words Sample Headline typeset in Open Sans Light, with both words as all caps and generous spacing between letters. Below the headline is a paragraph typeset in Open Sans Light.

Bold Example

This example shows the words Sample Headline typeset in Open Sans Bold, with all the letters capitalized. Below the headline is a paragraph typeset in Open Sans Regular.

 

Playful Example

This example shows the words Sample Headline typeset in Source Serif Pro Black, with both words capitalized. Below the headline is a paragraph typeset in Open Sans Regular.

Sophisticated Example

This example shows the words Sample Headline typeset in Source Serif Pro Light, with both words capitalized. Below the headline is a paragraph typeset in Open Sans Light.

 

Use of Additional Typefaces

On rare and unique occasions, thematic materials will benefit from additional typefaces beyond our standards. These additional typefaces should be used only within a single piece or campaign. When in doubt, contact UCM Creative at marketing-info@andrew.cmu.edu.

 

Samples

Advertising Campaign 
Unique headline font for visual impact. Body copy is Open Sans. 

Campus Event
Unique headline font for visual impact. Any body copy would be Open Sans.

 

Image described in text below.

Fact Sheet
Unique accent font for visual impact of statistics. Body copy is Open Sans.

Celebration Campaign
Unique accent font to support a celebratory campaign.

University Sign System Typeface

The university wayfinding and identification sign system uses Helvetica. 
All new signs must follow the university sign guidelines.

 

Read the Sign Guidelines

Have questions? We have answers.

 

See Frequently Asked Questions