Website Requirements

The digital strategy team provides resources and guidance for website owners and managers planning, creating, and launching new websites and large-scale redesigns. 

While each website process may take a different path toward launch, all websites that are hosted in the JHU.edu ecosystem must:  

• Live within an approved URL structure on the JHU.edu domain; 
• Utilize a system that supports content management and governance;
• Comply with Johns Hopkins University brand guidelines; 
• Meet or exceed Johns Hopkins University requirements for accessibility compliance;  
• Clear all security scans and checks required by Johns Hopkins IT. 

JHU.edu URL structure 

University Communications requires that all URLs in the JHU.edu domain are aligned with the university’s identity and are labeled based on the content of the website or application.  

Top-level subdomains (i.e., [NAME].jhu.edu) are reserved for universitywide or interdivisional units and initiatives.  

All other websites must be included within the parent unit’s framework and utilize that unit’s template, content management system, and URL structure. Please reach out to your unit’s marketing and communications leader for further information. 

Website setup and management

For websites that are approved by University Communications for a third-level subdomain of JHU.edu (i.e., [NAME].jhu.edu), the university strongly recommends website owners use a free resource called the Johns Hopkins Universal WordPress Theme. This resource is an easy-to-use content management system (CMS) called WordPress where website owners can manage their own content and maintain a website that is on-brand and accessible. 

Websites that require a more customized approach can explore hiring a third-party vendor with the approval of University Communications. Contact us with details about the content plan and its target audience(s), launch timing, and any other information that would be helpful to understand about the project. 

Brand alignment

All web properties that support Johns Hopkins University and live within the JHU.edu domain must adhere to approved web fonts, colors, and logo requirements.  

Accessibility compliance  

The university has procured a tool called Siteimprove that audits websites and rates them for accessibility according to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1 Level AA standard. Siteimprove rates websites on a scale from 0 to 100 based on the conformance of the code and content of the site. The university requires that all websites hosted on JHU.edu maintain a minimum score of 70 on a Siteimprove audit.  

To gain access to Siteimprove and receive an audit of your website, email webhosting@jhu.edu with the URL and JHED IDs for those who need access to the platform. For any questions related to this process, email webaccessibility@jhu.edu. 

Website security

Prior to launching websites hosted by Johns Hopkins IT, a security scan will be conducted, and a member of the webhosting team will go over the results with the website owner. While security scans can sometimes be quick, please allow 1-2 weeks for the security scan process and any remediation that might be needed. 

For any questions related to this process, email webhosting@jhu.edu.