Case Study: Academy of Art University strengthens campus security with HID Global access control

Academy of Art University Access Control Migration Project

The Academy of Art University, a large art and design school in San Francisco, faced significant security challenges across its dozens of dispersed urban campus buildings, which were highlighted by a major burglary. Their outdated lock-and-key system was inadequate for protecting valuable assets. To address this, they partnered with vendor HID Global to implement a modern access control system to improve security and create a scalable platform for future campus services.

HID Global provided its iCLASS SE platform and multiCLASS SE readers, enabling the university to issue new ID cards for secure door access. The solution resulted in a documented reduction in theft and improved the campus experience. The university installed nearly 260 readers protecting approximately 50 buildings and issues up to 75,000 cards per semester. The HID Global system also laid the foundation for future uses like cashless payments and mobile credentials.

Academy of Art University

Mike Petricca

Campus Safety Director