The Pioneer Card is the official identification card of Point Park University. Your Pioneer Card is essential to access campus locations, services and events. All faculty, staff and students are required to carry a Pioneer Card at all times. Using or permitting the use of another person's Pioneer Card is strictly prohibited for any reason. Such actions will lead to disciplinary measures, and both the cardholder and the individual misusing the card may face violations of the Student Conduct Code. When a card is presented by anyone other than the owner, it will be confiscated.
1. What can I use my Pioneer Card for?
- Provides access to campus buildings.
- Serves as your library card.
- Pays for food on campus if you purchase a meal plan or flex dollars.
- Acts as your membership to the Student Center for the use of fitness equipment, fitness classes and recreational spaces.
- Admits you to campus activities and athletic events.
- Serves as a flash pass on Port Authority of Allegheny County buses, light rail and inclines. You are entitled to a discounted, one-way Zone 1 fare of $1 on weekdays after 7 p.m. and all day on weekends and national holidays. Contact the Office of Student Life for more information.
- Grants you a student discount at various businesses, including shops, eateries and museums.
2. How much does the Pioneer Card cost?
Your initial card is free. The replacement fee for lost, stolen, or damaged cards is $25 and will be charged to your student account. Log into PointWeb to view and pay online.
Students with meal plans must inform campus food services of the replacement by either visiting the office on the 2nd floor of Lawrence Hall near the Point Café, or by calling 412-392-3829.
If the card is expired or defective at no fault of the cardholder, the replacement fee may be waived.
3. Do I get a new Pioneer Card every year?
No. If well cared for, your Pioneer Card will last you throughout your time at Point Park University. You will need to request a replacement card if your Pioneer Card is lost, damaged or stolen.
4. May I change the picture on my card?
You may request a new photo but only as part of the replacement card process, which carries a $25 fee.
5. May I punch a hole in my card so I can hang it from a lanyard or keychain?
No. Your card contains a proximity chip and wiring that coil throughout the card. Punching a hole in your Pioneer Card could render it useless, resulting in a replacement fee.
6. What should I do if I lose my Pioneer Card?
Contact Public Safety at 412-392-3960 and report the lost card immediately to prevent any unauthorized use.
If you need time to find your Pioneer Card, you can request a temporary access card for up to two business days. There is no charge if returned on time; otherwise, a $25 fee will apply. Your Pioneer Card will remain deactivated while the temporary card is in use. Temporary cards cannot be used for campus dining.
7. What should I do if my building or door access stops working?
To report a problem with your Pioneer Card or an electronic reader, contact the ID Center Office at 412-392-8066. Staff will verify that your access permissions are correct and active.
8. My Pioneer Card expires this year - what do I do?
If you are still eligible for a Pioneer Card, we will exchange your old card at no charge beginning one month prior to the date of expiration. Therefore, if you are a student and your Pioneer Card expires in June, you may get a new Pioneer Card starting in May - provided you are registered for at least one course in the upcoming summer or fall terms.
9. Can someone else pick up my Pioneer Card for me?
No. You must pick up your official Point Park University ID card in person and provide a valid government-issued photo ID.
10. How do I protect my Pioneer Card?
Avoid Magnetic Exposure
To avoid damaging the proximity access card, keep it away from items that emit a strong magnetic field. This will ensure that the data and programming on the card does not get damaged and will continue to work as intended. Keep your card away from smartphones and other electronic devices, especially when storing them together. Do not place your card near wireless chargers, speakers or key fobs. Avoid using wallets and bags with magnetic clasps or buttons.
Store Cards Properly
Keep your Pioneer Card in a separate compartment within your wallet, not touching other cards or metal objects like change.
Protective Sleeves
Consider using a dedicated card sleeve or holder made to shield cards from magnetic interference.
Keep Cards Dry and Clean
Moisture and dirt can affect the functionality of a card's magnetic strip. Ensure your card is always kept clean and dry to maintain its magnetic integrity and prevent demagnetization.
Avoid Excessive Swiping
Proximity cards are designed for contactless use. Minimize contact with the reader to reduce wear and tear.