Kwantlen Polytechnic University
Surrey, Canada
Kwantlen Polytechnic University
Surrey, Canada
Founded
1981
Institution Type
Public Polytechnic
Total Students
20,000+
Programs Offered
140+
Discover Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU)
Discover Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU)
Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) is a public undergraduate degree-granting polytechnic university in British Columbia, Canada, with campuses in Surrey, Richmond, Cloverdale, Civic Plaza, and Langley. Established by the government of British Columbia in 1981, KPU is recognized as Canada's only polytechnic university, offering a unique blend of academic and hands-on vocational education across the Metro Vancouver region.
KPU is one of the largest institutions by enrolment in British Columbia, welcoming approximately 20,000 students and employing 1,400 faculty members across its five campuses. The university provides undergraduate and vocational education including bachelor's degrees, associate degrees, diplomas, certificates, apprenticeships, and citations in more than 140 diverse programs.
The university was gifted its name by the Kwantlen First Nation and maintains a deep commitment to Indigenous education and reconciliation. KPU emphasizes experiential learning, small class sizes with a maximum of 35 students, and strong industry connections that prepare graduates for the workforce through co-op education, practicums, and international learning opportunities.
Key Milestones
- 1981: Founded as Kwantlen College to address the growing need for vocational training across the Fraser Valley.
- 1995: Granted university college status with authority to offer baccalaureate degrees.
- 2008: Officially became Kwantlen Polytechnic University after the University Act was amended, with royal assent on May 29, 2008.
- 2023: Launched a new Indigenous Studies department to strengthen its commitment to reconciliation and Indigenous education.
Academic Structure and Faculties at KPU
Academic Structure and Faculties at KPU
KPU offers a wide range of credentials across multiple faculties and schools, many of which are completely unique to the institution. Students can bridge certificate and diploma credentials into bachelor's degrees, creating flexible pathways for academic and professional advancement.
Faculty of Arts
The Faculty of Arts offers diverse programs in humanities, social sciences, and creative disciplines, preparing students for careers in education, public service, media, and more.
- Criminology
- Psychology
- Creative Writing
Melville School of Business
The Melville School of Business provides undergraduate and graduate diploma programs in business administration, accounting, marketing, and entrepreneurship with strong industry partnerships.
- Bachelor of Business Administration
- Accounting
- Marketing Management
Faculty of Science and Horticulture
This faculty combines traditional sciences with unique horticulture programs, including the only undergraduate degree in urban ecosystems in North America and an award-winning Brewing and Brewery Operations program.
- Bachelor of Horticulture Science
- Brewing and Brewery Operations Diploma
- Biology
Wilson School of Design
Ranked among the top global design education institutions by the World Brand Design Society, the Wilson School of Design offers programs in fashion, product design, interior design, and graphic design for marketing.
- Fashion and Technology
- Product Design
- Interior Design
Faculty of Trades and Technology
Housed at the LEED Gold-certified KPU Tech campus in Cloverdale, this faculty offers apprenticeships and vocational training in skilled trades with industry-standard equipment and facilities.
- Welding
- Carpentry
- Mechatronics and Advanced Manufacturing Technology
Faculty of Health
The Faculty of Health prepares students for rewarding careers in healthcare through programs in nursing, health sciences, and traditional Chinese medicine, with hands-on clinical placements.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Health Care Assistant
- Traditional Chinese Medicine
Admission Requirements for KPU
Admission Requirements for KPU
Undergraduate Admission
- High School DiplomaGraduation from secondary school or equivalent required
- English ProficiencyIELTS 6.5 overall, TOEFL iBT 88, or PTE 61
- Application FeeCAD 120 for international students
- TranscriptsOfficial transcripts from most recent high school and all post-secondary institutions
- Additional RequirementsLimited intake programs may require portfolios, interviews, or reference letters
Graduate Admission
- Bachelor's DegreeCompleted bachelor's degree from a recognized institution with minimum GPA of 2.33
- English ProficiencyIELTS 6.5 overall, TOEFL iBT 88, or PTE 61
- Application FeeCAD 120 for international students
- Supporting DocumentsReference letters, resume, and/or statement of intent depending on program
- TranscriptsOfficial transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
Application deadline for international students seeking admission to the Fall semester beginning in September.
Application deadline for international students seeking admission to the Spring semester beginning in January.
Application deadline for international students seeking admission to the Summer semester beginning in May.
English Language Studies courses are offered six times per year with rolling admission. Contact KPU International for specific dates.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at KPU
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at KPU
KPU offers competitive tuition rates compared to many Canadian universities. Tuition and mandatory student fees are assessed on a per-credit basis, with rates applicable from September 1, 2025 to August 31, 2026.
| Fee Category | Domestic Students | International Students |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees (per credit) | Contact university for current rate | CAD 792.81 |
| Annual Tuition (full-time estimate) | Contact university for current rate | CAD 15,033 - CAD 24,840 |
| Application Fee | CAD 48.25 | CAD 120.00 |
| Confirmation Deposit | N/A | CAD 5,000 |
| Total | Contact university for current domestic total | CAD 15,033 - CAD 24,840 per year |
KPU Entrance Scholarships
KPU offers entrance scholarships to incoming students who demonstrate strong academic achievement and community involvement. The university distributes over CAD 1 million in scholarships and awards annually.
- Eligibility: New incoming students with strong academic records
- Application: Apply through KPU Student Awards and Financial Assistance
- Deadline: Varies by award; check KPU SAFA website
International Student Awards
KPU provides various scholarships and financial aid options specifically for international students, including program-specific scholarships and external awards to help offset tuition costs.
- Eligibility: International students enrolled full-time at KPU
- Types Available: Entrance, program-specific, and external scholarships
- Contact: KPU International Students Office and Financial Aid Office
Campus and Facilities at KPU
Campus and Facilities at KPU
KPU operates five campuses across Metro Vancouver, each offering unique facilities and programs tailored to different areas of study. The Surrey campus is the largest and serves as the main hub for the university's administration and student services.
The main campus features the Melville School of Business, Faculty of Arts, psychology labs, visual arts studios, a gym, fitness centre, and the Applied Genomics Centre.
Home to the School of Horticulture, nursing programs, and the award-winning Brewing and Brewery Operations program, with field labs, greenhouses, and science laboratories.
A LEED Gold-certified building housing Trades and Technology programs including welding, carpentry, automotive servicing, and mechatronics with industry-standard equipment.
Housing and Student Services
Accommodation
KPU does not operate on-campus residences. However, the university partners with housing services to help students find suitable off-campus accommodation including homestays and rental options across Metro Vancouver.
- Homestay placements through partner agencies
- Off-campus rental listings and support
- Estimated living costs: CAD 2,600 per month minimum
Campus Amenities
Each KPU campus offers essential student services and amenities to support academic success and well-being, including libraries, study spaces, fitness facilities, and student-run services.
- Libraries with e-books, research guides, and databases
- Gym and fitness centres at Surrey campus
- Grassroots Cafe (student-run) and multi-faith spaces
Student Life at Kwantlen Polytechnic University
Student Life at Kwantlen Polytechnic University
Student life at KPU is vibrant and diverse, supported by the Kwantlen Student Association (KSA) which funds campus clubs, events, conferences, and special interest groups. Students benefit from health and dental plans, discounted transit passes (U-Pass BC), and advocacy services.
Location: Surrey and Metro Vancouver
Location: Surrey and Metro Vancouver
Life in Surrey, British Columbia
Surrey is British Columbia's second-largest city, situated in the heart of Metro Vancouver. It offers an excellent quality of life with diverse cultural communities, accessible public transit via SkyTrain, and proximity to both Vancouver's urban amenities and the natural beauty of the Fraser Valley and Coast Mountains.
Multicultural Community
Surrey is one of Canada's most diverse cities, home to vibrant South Asian, Chinese, Filipino, and other cultural communities with festivals, restaurants, and cultural centres.
Public Transit Access
KPU students receive a U-Pass BC for unlimited transit on buses and SkyTrain, connecting all campuses and the greater Metro Vancouver region affordably.
Outdoor Recreation
Metro Vancouver offers easy access to hiking, skiing, beaches, and parks. Whistler ski resort, Stanley Park, and the Pacific Ocean are all within easy reach.
Employment Opportunities
Surrey's growing economy and proximity to Vancouver provide abundant part-time work and post-graduation career opportunities across technology, healthcare, and business sectors.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Top Employers Recruiting KPU Graduates
Practical Information for Students
Practical Information for Students
For International Students
Provides comprehensive support including academic advising, orientation programs, study permit guidance, and assistance with accommodation and settlement in Metro Vancouver.
KPU offers English Language Studies (ELS) courses for students who need to improve their English proficiency before entering undergraduate programs, with six intakes per year.
Assists students with career exploration, resume writing, interview preparation, job fairs, and connecting with potential employers through co-op and practicum placements.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Kwantlen Polytechnic University Rankings
Kwantlen Polytechnic University Rankings
As a polytechnic university focused on applied and undergraduate education, KPU is not typically featured in major global research-focused ranking systems such as QS or Times Higher Education. However, the university is well-regarded in Canada for its polytechnic education model, experiential learning approach, and specific programs that have earned notable recognition.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Design Education | World Brand Design Society | #6 Global, #2 Best Design Education |
| Brewing and Brewery Operations | Unique in British Columbia | Only program of its kind in BC |
| Urban Ecosystems (Horticulture) | North American Recognition | Only undergraduate degree in North America |
| Polytechnic Education | Canadian Recognition | Canada's only polytechnic university |
Features
The Global Development Office builds relationships with institutions and organizations around the world, co-creating global learning opportunities for KPU students, staff, and faculty. With the support of these valued global partners we're proud contribute to the diversification and internationalization of KPU.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
October - March
Location
Kwantlen Polytechnic University is located in the Metro Vancouver region of British Columbia.
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