Becoming a Wilson School of Design student means joining a vibrant community of up-and-coming designers. We keep our class sizes small, so students and faculty work side by side, meaning you get the attention and studio space to truly develop your craft.
Student life here is about late-night work sessions with people who care about what they're making. It's talking through a stubborn problem with a classmate until it clicks. And it's field trips, site visits, under-eye bags, and callused fingers that made something you’re proud of.
Our Instagram offers a glimpse of what happens behind the scenes — but you'll only really understand it once you're here.
Already accepted? Curious about the resources and services that shape student life here? We’ve got you covered. Keep reading to learn about a few of the things you can count on as a Wilson School student.
Student Resources
Academic Advising
Your Design Advisor is here to support you throughout your time at Wilson School of Design, from choosing courses to planning for what comes after graduation. Book an appointment through Advisor Connect, or email your advisor at designadvising@kpu.ca if you run into any issues with the platform.
Your advisor can help you with:
- Course planning and selection
- Program choices
- Course pre-requisites
- Program and graduation requirements
- Academic regulations and policies
- Educational planning for career goals
Design Advisor: Geraldine Wee
Email: DesignAdvising@kpu.ca
Academic & Career Preparation
The Faculty of Academic and Career Preparation (ACP) is here for students who want to upgrade before or during their studies. Whether English is your first language or an additional one, ACP offers courses to help you meet your educational and career goals. There are also programs for students with diverse learning needs, including the Employment and Community Studies program and the Learning Communities course.
Courses run full- or part-time, at KPU Richmond, Surrey, Langley, and online — so you can find a schedule and location that works for you. Read more here.
KSA (Kwantlen Student Association)
The Kwantlen Student Association is an independent, non-profit organization incorporated under the Society Act that represents KPU students. The KSA works to enhance campus life, protect your academic rights, advocate to KPU and the provincial government on your behalf, use resources responsibly and deliver services that support your success at KPU. Read more here.
KSA Instagram | KSA Facebook | KSA Twitter | KSA Blog
KSA Active
KSA Active is a program funded by the Kwantlen Student Association, in partnership with KPU Sport and Recreation, that brings health and recreational programming to campus.
Campus Services
The everyday things you'll need to get around campus and get things done:
- Bookstore
- Cafeteria Hours
- IT Resources for Students
- Lost & Found
- Security
- Shuttle Bus Schedule
- U-Pass BC / Compass Card
Student Life
There's more to being a student at KPU than what happens in class. You can also find clubs, job postings, fitness centres, KPU Pride, a Social Justice space, and so much more.
- Clubs & Student Groups
- Leadership Activities
- Sport & Recreation
- Student Health 101
- Volunteering
- Working on Campus
Learn more about the ways you can get involved on campus here.
Career Services
The Career Development Centre helps you prepare for what's next — from your first co-op interview to your first job out of school. Services include:
- Resume, cover letter, and interview workshops
- Individual work search assistance
- The Career Connection job posting system
- Career Days and other annual job fairs
- On-campus recruitment support for employers
- Interview and information session space for employers
- Connections between employers and students via social media
- Information on international internships and job opportunities
- Information on external career training scholarships
- Mock interviews to help you prepare for the job market
Career Services Department Overview | Career Development Centre Facebook | Career Development Centre Instagram
KPU International
If you're joining us from outside Canada, KPU International is your first stop. You'll find support with applying, settling in, taxes, social events, and making the most of an education from Canada’s only accredited polytechnic university.
KPU Orientation Team
Orientation is how you and the people supporting you get ready for university life at KPU. It’s a chance to meet the programs, resources, and people that will help you settle in.
Programs & Courses
Eager to get into course info? Here’s everything you need to plan your studies at KPU, in one place:
- Continuing & Professional Studies
- Dates, Deadlines, and University Calendar
- Faculties
- Programs
- Timetables
Sports & Recreation
Whether you want a break between classes or something to build a routine around, Sports & Recreation has your back:
- Updated fitness centres and studios on all KPU campuses
- Free fitness centre and studio membership for all current KPU students, employees, and alumni
- Reduced-cost fitness programs for all current KPU students, employees, and alumni
- Extended hours at sport and recreation facilities
- New tournaments, sport leagues, and intramurals
- Flexible personal training rates
Student Enrolment Services
Did you know you still need to apply to graduate, even if you’ve done all your required courses? Here are all the resources you’ll need to make sure you get your degree.
- Applying for Graduation
- Applying for Transfer Credit
- Checking Your Grades
- Getting a Transcript
- Paying Your Fees
Student Health
Student Health Promotion takes a whole-person approach to wellness at KPU. Wellness isn't just physical — it's mental, emotional, social, spiritual, and financial too, and all of those are connected. Our team focuses on your individual health and on removing the systemic and environmental barriers that get in the way of students thriving.
Student Support
Support at KPU covers everything from academic help to personal well-being:
- Career Guidance
- Counselling Services
- Academic Advising
- Student Awards and Financial Assistance
- Research & Projects
- Accessibility Services
- Tutoring
Student Survival Guide
Overwhelmed and not sure where to start? We’ve put together a survival guide for new KPU students. Read it here.
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteering is a great way to get involved on campus and meet people outside your program. KPU offers a range of volunteer initiatives across the community. Read more here.
Work-Study Programs
The Work Study Program offers part-time jobs for full-time undergraduate students with demonstrated financial need. The work is career-related — often alongside faculty members or in administrative and academic units — so you're earning income and building experience at the same time. Read more here.