Are you drawn to colleges that proudly wear purple as their signature color? Whether you love the regal vibe of purple or want to support schools with bold, distinctive branding, this list covers 10 notable colleges whose official colors include purple. From large public universities to private institutions, these schools showcase purple in their identity, athletics, and culture, making them a great fit if you want to stand out on campus or in fandom.
Northwestern University
Located in Evanston, Illinois, Northwestern University is a prestigious private research university known for its rigorous academics and competitive Division I athletics. Purple and white are Northwestern’s official colors, symbolizing tradition and excellence. The Wildcats’ purple is a deep shade that features prominently in their sports uniforms and campus branding, giving the university a unique and instantly recognizable look in the Big Ten Conference.
University of Washington
The University of Washington in Seattle uses purple and gold as its official colors, with purple often taking center stage in Huskies athletics and merchandise. This public research university is renowned for its programs in medicine, engineering, and computer science. The purple color embodies the school’s bold spirit and strong community pride, especially during football season at Husky Stadium.
Kansas State University
Kansas State, located in Manhattan, Kansas, proudly displays royal purple and white as its school colors. Purple is deeply embedded in the university’s identity, from its mascot Willie the Wildcat to its athletic uniforms and fan gear. Known for its agricultural and engineering programs, K-State’s purple also symbolizes loyalty and tradition among Wildcats alumni and students.
James Madison University
James Madison University, in Harrisonburg, Virginia, features purple and gold as its official colors. The Dukes embrace purple as a symbol of pride and unity throughout their campus culture and athletics, particularly in their NCAA Division I football and basketball teams. Purple is visible in student apparel, campus events, and official university branding, reinforcing a strong sense of community.
East Carolina University
East Carolina University (ECU) in Greenville, North Carolina, uses purple and gold to represent its Pirates. The school’s purple is a vibrant shade that energizes its athletic teams and student body. ECU is known for its health sciences and business programs, and the purple color helps create a distinctive and spirited identity in Conference USA.
University of St. Thomas (Minnesota)
The University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota, features purple and gray as its official colors. This private Catholic university integrates purple into its academic and athletic branding, especially for its NCAA Division I teams competing in the Summit League. Purple here conveys dignity and tradition, reflecting the school’s commitment to community and leadership.
Berry College
Berry College in Mount Berry, Georgia, is a private liberal arts college with purple and white as its official colors. The purple shade used by Berry is rich and royal, visible in its athletic uniforms and campus merchandise. Known for its large campus and strong environmental studies program, Berry’s purple symbolizes creativity and ambition.
University of the Pacific
The University of the Pacific, located in Stockton, California, uses orange and black primarily but also incorporates purple as a secondary school color in some branding and athletics. While purple is less dominant, it is part of the school’s visual identity in certain sports and student organizations, adding a unique touch to the university’s palette.
Old Dominion University
Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia, recently adopted a new shade of purple combined with silver and blue for its Monarchs athletic teams. Purple is a prominent part of their branding, symbolizing royalty and strength. ODU is recognized for its engineering, business, and marine science programs, with purple uniting students and fans under a bold, modern image.
University of Northwestern – St. Paul
University of Northwestern – St. Paul is a private Christian university whose official colors include purple and gold. The purple is a bright, vibrant hue used in uniforms and school merchandise, representing faith and leadership. Known for its strong programs in ministry, education, and music, the university’s purple helps foster a sense of identity among students and alumni.
How to Choose
When deciding between colleges with purple school colors, consider more than just the hue. Look at academic programs that fit your career goals, campus culture, location, and size. Athletics might matter if you’re a sports fan or athlete, but also weigh opportunities for research, internships, and student life. Since purple is a less common color, schools featuring it often have distinctive traditions and branding—visiting campuses or exploring virtual tours can help you see which environment feels right. Ultimately, pick a college where purple is part of a community you want to join, not just a color you like.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why do some colleges choose purple as a school color?
A: Purple historically symbolizes royalty, wisdom, and ambition, making it a popular choice for schools wanting to project prestige and pride.
Q: Are there many colleges with purple as their primary color?
A: Purple is less common than colors like blue or red, but several well-known universities use it prominently, making it distinctive.
Q: Can I find merchandise easily for colleges with purple colors?
A: Yes, schools like Northwestern and Kansas State have extensive merchandise lines featuring their signature purple.
Q: Does the shade of purple differ between schools?
A: Absolutely; some use deep royal purple, others bright or muted tones, so each school’s purple has its own unique look.
Q: Is purple used only in athletics or also academics?
A: While most visible in athletics, purple often appears in academic regalia, school logos, and official communications, reinforcing identity across campus.
Final Thoughts
Colleges with purple school colors offer more than just a striking palette—they embody tradition, pride, and a sense of community that can enhance your college experience. From Northwestern’s Big Ten prominence to smaller schools like Berry College, purple unites diverse institutions under a banner of ambition and creativity. When choosing your school, look beyond the color to find a place where you’ll thrive academically and socially. And if purple speaks to you, these universities provide plenty of options to consider.
Related
- Benefits of Studying Business at University of Tampa Explained
- Problems Faced During Leave of Absence Return and How to Overcome Them
- How to Request a Leave of Absence Professionally and Effectively