The page title is defined as the text set by the HTML <title> tag. For most browser software (Netscape, Firefox, Internet Explorer, etc.), the page title information appears at the very top of the browser window in the window name area. The page title is a critical element in the indexing of a page by search engines. It also appears as the bookmark title when a user bookmark's your web page.
Homepage Requirement:
At the minimum, the homepage title tag must include “The University of Arizona” as part of the title text. Note that the exact text must be “The University of Arizona.” “University of Arizona” and “UA” is not acceptable.
Template:
- Org/College Name – The University of Arizona
Examples:
- College of Science – The University of Arizona
- Undergraduate Information – College Science – The University of Arizona
- The University of Arizona College of Nursing
Subsequent Web Page Requirement:
Subsequent web pages must include an appropriate title tag that describes the information or resources provided on that specific page. It should
match the page's main heading.
Template:
- Page title - Department or Organization name
Examples:
- About Us -- Department of Science
- About the Department of Science
- Staff Directory -- Department of Science
- Department of Science Staff Directory
Recommendation:
In addition to meeting the minimum standard, the text of the title should include text identifying the college or organizational units above the site within the University hierarchy. There are two rationales behind this recommendation. First, this format allows for better indexing and display in most Internet search engines by organizing the title from specifics to the general identity of the University. Second, use of this format provides a clear reference for the location of the page within the larger University organization. While the placement of the page or site within the University is not of interest to all audiences, it can be a crucial piece of information for some.
Note: In cases where the responsibility for a department or resource site falls to more than one unit, all the responsible units should be listed
in the page title.
Note: Because Search Engines and Web browsers will truncate a page title to varying lengths, it is not necessary to make the text, "The University of Arizona" visible in a browser or Search Engine display. The text need only be in the Page Title, between the <title> </title> tags.
Exceptions:
As with any policy applied in a large institution, there are bound to be exceptions to the standards outlined here. If you think you may need an exception to some part of these standards, please contact the University Web Manager to discuss the issue.
