The University of Pécs adopts a modern new visual identity

On the day of Hungarian Higher Education, the 1st of September, a new chapter starts in the life of the University of Pécs: during a press release the new brand image of the institution was introduced. The new, modern visual identity is a manifestation of the will to show a united, internationally recognisable image that reflects the values and community building role of the PTE, looking back at a history of more than 650 years. 

The visual renewal, spearheaded by the motto “From the Past toward the Future” builds upon the historical heritage of the university while at the same time it reacts to the challenges of the 21st century.  The new brand identity builds upon four pillars: historical pride, preserving heritage, unity and sustainability, and openness towards the future.

The rector of the university announced a logo competition amongst the students at the university in January 2024, with the aim to create a new, unified image for the university. Amongst the presented candidatures the jury, composed of professionals and representatives of the university, has chosen that of Noémi Koppányi, student at the Faculty of Music and Visual Arts.

Introducing the new brand image on the day of Hungarian Higher Education, tied to the foundation of our institution can be seen as a symbolic gesture. We want to send a message about keeping our past and heritage close to heart, showing them off proudly, but we are also not afraid to reinvent ourselves and we can react to the challenges of our age – said dr. Attila Miseta, Rector of the University of Pécs, during the press release. 

The goal of this visual renewal is for our image to represent the values of Hungary’s first university; make it better known and reinforce our sense of community – added dr. János Betlehem, Vice Rector for General Affairs.

As part of the unveiling, the participants also had the possibility to see a short video, showing the new brand image, created by the Public Relations Centre.

The winning proposal was developed in detail by the students and lecturers of the Department of Graphic Design under the direction of the department head Gergely Böhm: The new PTE logo is a geometric reinterpretation of the medieval university coat of arms. In its appearance, it connects with the city’s emblem, referring to the fact that Pécs is truly a university town. In addition to the brand guidelines, the university has also developed its own custom typeface, of which we can likewise be proud. The design of the new visual identity was a collaboration between the students and teachers of the graphic design program launched at the Faculty of Arts in 2012; the department is also responsible for the visual identity of Pécs itself – said the head of the department at the presentation of the new identity and its elements.

A distinctive feature of the new visual identity is the unique, custom typeface that was also created for the university, with the contribution of typographer and graphic designer Oszkár Borovitz, lecturer at the PTE Faculty of Music and Visual Arts. This further strengthens the institution’s individuality and symbolizes PTE’s openness to innovation.

During this comprehensive visual renewal, it was important for the university to preserve its core values alongside the transformation. Values also expressed by the motto of the centenary celebrations: From the Past toward the Future. The new identity therefore simultaneously builds on the rich historical heritage, traditions, and unity, while pointing towards a sustainable future. At the same time, it creates a modern, coherent, and recognisable identity that is worthy of the uniquely rich history of the University of Pécs.

This change of visual identity is more than just a new logo and colour scheme, it also carries a message: in the future, the University of Pécs aims to continue as an inspiring community, a key partner in the region, and an open and influential actor on the international stage.

The more than 200-page brandbook, forming the basis of the new identity, has been approved by both the university and its maintaining foundation. The document provides guidance for all organisational units of the university toward a future unified and streamlined visual appearance. The new manual is already available on the university’s website and, according to the plans, will be continuously updated in line with practical needs.

Introducing the full new identity will likely span two years, today’s unveiling is just the first step on the road From the Past Toward the Future. 

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