The Value of University Branding.
As more venues and options for higher education are being created, the resources to run them are being spread thin. Many campuses are underfunded, forcing increases in tuition costs and decreases in availability of quality services. While the cost to students to attend college or university is still rising, the concept of promoting universities has been – for the most part – overlooked, and understandably so; the objective of a school has never been to make money, but to educate. A university or college using promotion efficiently will bring more students in, which will in turn bring more funding in and enable a higher quality of education. In addition, proper marketing can:

  • Create pride in a university.
  • Increase loyalty toward a university.
  • Indicate value in a university.
  • Distinguish a university from others.

How to Promote a University.

Historically, colleges and universities have promoted themselves, but on a small scale; the convention of college advertising on T-shirts and sweatshirts has become somewhat stale. However, marketing a university doesn’t have to be boring; the possibilities for advertising a college are as varied as colleges themselves. Many colleges have created social network accounts to bring in more students. Harvard has registered phrases as trademarks to market a good image. The University of Georgia offers a custom belt buckle as a token of being a Mason on campus.

Custom Belt Buckles are Simple, Unique, and Polished.

Belt buckles have been a fashion staple for hundreds of years because they’re unobtrusive, but still manage to make a statement. This is why a custom made belt buckle is an excellent and cost efficient way to promote a university. Belt buckles can be customized in endless ways including:

  • The logo of a university.
  • The mascot of a campus team.
  • The symbol of a group like the Masons.
  • A message important to the campus like, “Just Say No.”

Spread the message.

Advertisement won’t produce any results if they aren’t seen. Whatever method of promotion a university chooses to adopt, it should be widely dispersed. Belt buckles can be circulated in a number of ways including:

  • Sold in a campus store.
  • A reward for accomplishments such as graduating.
  • A symbol of membership in specific campus clubs.
  • Given away to prospective students.

While many colleges are struggling to compete, few are utilizing the invaluable tool of college branding. Promoting a university should be the first means of increasing college revenues instead of a tuition rise; university marketing is cost effective, increases pride and loyalty, and establishes recognition and renown.