This fall, the University of Houston is putting the Cougar Card in the palm of your hand.
With the launch of the Mobile Cougar Card, students, faculty, and staff can add their credential to a smartphone or smartwatch and access campus services with a simple tap. From residence halls and libraries to dining locations and campus events, the mobile credential makes daily campus life faster, more convenient, and more secure.
"By putting their Cougar Card on a device that most people already carry every day, we are making campus access and transactions more convenient, secure, and seamless," said Dr. Cassie Bruner, director of Cougar Card Services.
The transition follows years of planning and collaboration among Cougar Card Services, University Information Services, Enterprise Systems, and Cougar Access Control Services. Together, the teams developed and deployed the technology needed to support mobile credentials across campus.
Incoming students received an early introduction during New Student Orientation this summer, where Cougar Card Services staff helped attendees activate their Mobile Cougar Cards and learn about features such as ShastaBUCKS and mobile campus access.
Beyond convenience, the Mobile Cougar Card offers enhanced security, reduces the risk of lost IDs, and supports UH's sustainability efforts by decreasing reliance on plastic cards.
"The Mobile Cougar Card reflects our commitment to creating a modern campus experience that is convenient, secure, and responsive to the needs of our students, faculty, and staff," said Dr. Esmeralda Valdez, assistant vice president for University Services.
The Mobile Cougar Card marks another step forward in UH's commitment to innovation, service, and a smarter campus experience.
