Why Choose KPU?

Where thought meets action

  • KPU is Canada's only polytechnic university. We focus on hands-on skills, in addition to traditional academics.
  • Your education will go beyond books, with experiential learning opportunities like group projects, presentations, guest speakers, and more
  • Many of our programs include work experience terms, practicums, or cooperative education options
  • International learning opportunities all over the world through field schools, exchanges, study abroad opportunities, and more
  • We work closely with industry partners and organizations to ensure our graduates are well prepared to enter the workforce

History

  • KPU was formed in 1981, after separating from Douglas College. The university then took over the campus south of the Fraser River, where KPU continues to be present today.
  • In 1995, the institution became a degree-granting university college, and in 2008 became a polytechnic university
  • More than 20,000 students annually (over 12,000 full-time equivalency students)
  • 60,000+ registered alumni around the world
  • Over 200,000 students educated at KPU to date
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KPU Surrey

 

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Studying

Study your way

  • Over 140 diverse degree, diploma, certificate, and citation programs
  • Foundation and in-school apprenticeship training
  • KPU offers many unique programs that can't be found at other post-secondary institutions
  • Flexible scheduling allows you to take courses full-time or part-time with classes in the morning, afternoon, or evening. Some online courses are also available.
  • Work and volunteer opportunities on-campus
  • Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) is a purposeful, planned and assessed work-based experience that comes in many forms, including practicum courses, co-ops, service learning, and more. At KPU, students have the opportunity to integrate learning with its application in employment and/or community settings.

Teaching-focused university

  • Our classes have a maximum of 35 students.
  • Student-centered learning environment that brings together students, instructors, guest lecturers, and industry experts
  • Our faculty have extensive real-world experience in their field, and a passion for teaching
  • Over 1,400 faculty and staff members
  • 70+ researchers working on active sponsored research projects

 

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Student Services

Student support services

  • We offer more than 30 student services to help you succeed
  • School can be expensive, but we're here to help. We provide almost $2 million in scholarships and awards, and over $250,000 annually is available for students starting at KPU for the first time. Bursaries and other financial aid are also available.
  • Advising to help you succeed throughout your educational journey — course planning, major/minor selection, career options, and more!
  • Supports and resources for Aboriginal students, including KPU's Elder in Residence, Lekeyten, from the Kwantlen First Nation
  • We have a Learning Centre on each campus offering tutoring services, study resources, and workshops
  • Free intercampus shuttle that travels between Surrey, Langley, and Cloverdale
  • Range of student clubs and organizations, or, start your own!

State-of-the-art facilities

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KPU Surrey library

The skills you need for the career you want

  • Earn while you learn and build professional networks with co-op education options in several arts, business, and science and horticulture programs
  • Hands-on practicums are built-in to many programs to provide professional work experience alongside your in-class education
  • Study abroad and field school opportunities prepare you for a global marketplace
  • Career Services offers coaching and job-finding resources for graduates, and can also help you find part-time work and summer employment
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KPU graduates