Our Logo

Our Heritage Crest 

Created in 1923, before we became a University, the coat of arms captures our deep ties to the region across Devon and Cornwall: 

• The castle: from Exeter’s coat of arms, representing Rougemont Castle against its red backdrop. 
• The green cross: from Devon County Council, reflecting our home in Devon. 
• The gold bezants: fifteen coins from Cornwall’s coat of arms, symbolising the ransom once paid to free the Duke of Cornwall. 
• The open book: edged in gold, carrying our Latin motto “Lucem sequimur” — “We follow the light.” 

Together, these elements reflect a proud heritage rooted in place, learning, and discovery. 

1995 – Where it all started

Before the dawn of the internet in 1993, our logo appeared in many different forms across the University,  academic departments often developed their own designs and interpretations. As digital communication evolved, and with the launch of our first official website in 1995, the need for a consistent visual identity became vital.  

The old, boxed University of Exeter logo represented an early effort to bring structure and recognition to our brand in the early days of the internet.

2005 – A more modern approach

In March 2005, we introduced a new visual identity with a refreshed logo. Rumour has it, that the swish of the blue exe represents the flow of the river Exe.

For the first time, the University’s visual identity better aligned with its growing reputation and global outlook. Whilst this logo and visual identity served us well for nearly 20 years, it lacked the flexibility needed in a digital-first world and we had outgrown it. 

What has never faded, however, is our community’s deep connection to the heritage crest. By reimagining this historic symbol, we’ve revitalised our identity in a way that honours our past and embraces the future. 

Our heritage respected. The future reimagined.