Why become a Mature Student @ KPU?
Whether you've decided to advance your current role, switch professions, learn a new skill or finish your credential, it's never too late to invest or reinvent yourself. But if you're investing in or reinventing yourself, you don't have time to waste. KPU is the place where thought meets action and we understand you need to get working, get that promotion or get started on your new career as soon as possible.
As Canada's only polytechnic university, you'll learn through practical, hands-on experiences, gaining in-demand, industry skills you need to be confident and job-ready. Most of our programs have a practical career or experiential learning component tied to local industry. In fact, many students are hired before they finish their education. We also have expert staff at our Career Development Centre who can help coach you on career transitions, applying for work, interviewing and networking.
We have classes offered in all learning modes, online, in-person or a hybrid mix of both, so you can choose what suits the way you learn best. Add to that, flexibility to study full- or part-time with classes in the morning, afternoon or evening, so you can learn at your own pace and what fits your current lifestyle. And depending on your program, you have the option to take classes at any of our campuses across the lower mainland.
Who are KPU's Adult Learners?
At KPU, we have a diverse population with students coming from different backgrounds and age groups. Chances are you're not the only adult learner in your class. You'll find like-minded people at KPU. People who are driven. Driven to make a better life for their family. For themselves. For the world.
So, whether you're trying to start your career, advance in it or remake yourself, this is the place. The place where people come to learn. The place where you can discover who you are. The place where you can be who you were meant to be.
Prior Learning Assessment and Transfer Credit
Transferring to KPU from another college or university? If so, you'll want to have as many of your credits as possible formally recognized. Visit Requesting Transfer Credit to learn more about the transfer credit process or consult with a KPU recruiter to get started.
As a mature student, KPU recognizes you've have a wealth of knowledge from formal academic learning, as well as work, training, and other experiences outside the formal post-secondary education system. Through Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR), KPU may award credit for learning that is directly applicable to the student's declared program of study.
Financing your future
While your education is an investment in yourself and your future, it shouldn't break the bank. KPU's tuition rates are affordable and competitive with other post-secondary institutions. Our online tuition estimator can help you calculate the approximate costs for your specific situation and provides a full breakdown of fees. Tuition and student fees are calculated based on your specific program and courses, and how many classes (or credits) you're taking each term.
But we know starting school can be expensive. That's why at KPU we're proud to offer a range of scholarships, awards, bursaries and financial assistance to all students studying at KPU. We offer almost $2 million in scholarships annually, with $265,000 set aside for new KPU students. We're also proud to be the first institution in Canada to offer courses with zero textbook costs, providing you an alternative to buying expensive books every semester.
You can also earn while you learn through co-operative education. Co-op is a paid-work experience that allows students to get a taste of their profession before they graduate, while making valuable industry connections, and discovering the wealth of possibilities ahead. Why wait to start your career? The Career Development Centre offers other employment opportunities, including full- and part-time job postings and on-campus opportunities, like work study and student assistant positions.
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Contact Us
Sheri Browning
Student Recruitment Coordinator
sheri.browning1@kpu.ca