Editorial Standards

Metropolitan State University of Denver’s Editorial Standards

This guide establishes a set of editorial standards for Metropolitan State University of Denver’s communications and marketing collateral. Consistent editorial style enhances the effectiveness of MSU Denver communications. Apply these guidelines when writing and editing nonacademic communications for the University, including but not limited to publications, speeches and web copy.

These guidelines are not intended for technical or academic writing. They apply to written material for audiences that span the broad range of MSU Denver constituencies, from the campus community to the general public. The overall goals of this guide are clarity, conciseness, consistency and streamlining the reader experience.

These standards were developed from the Associated Press Stylebook, Webster’s New World College Dictionary and long-standing editorial practices within higher education and at MSU Denver. The Associated Press Stylebook is a foundation because of its wide use and readers’ familiarity and comfort level with this style of writing. For topics not covered in the Editorial Standards Guide, refer to the Associated Press Stylebook as a primary reference and Webster’s New World College Dictionary as a secondary reference.

Editorial standards, by nature, are constantly changing, so please check back regularly. Questions can be directed to the associate vice president of strategic communications.