Metro Vancouver, BC – The Ministry of Advanced Education has approved Kwantlen Polytechnic University’s (KPU) Bachelor of Science, Physics for Modern Technology Major Degree, a four-year program that will fully launch next fall.
The strong emphasis on the applied nature of physics in technological contexts sets this highly unique program apart from those offered by other Canadian universities. Local and multinational industries, as well as several European post-secondary institutions, were consulted in the creation of a degree that will specifically prepare graduates for immediate employment in areas that match the labour market and industry’s needs, such as electronics, robotics, optics, computer programming, process control and business.
“Whether or not we do it on purpose, most science degrees tend to prepare successful students for graduate school and ultimately to become university professors – but the world only needs so many professors. Our approach is to prepare scientists for industry, not academics,” says Dr. Takashi Sato, with the Department of Physics. “The resulting curriculum is a marked departure from traditional baccalaureate science curricula which implicitly prepare students primarily for further studies. Our degree maintains a strong focus on applied skills, and is underscored with a work placement.”
The new degree’s focus on applied education upholds the university’s commitment to preparing graduates for successful and rewarding careers.
“I am extremely excited about the launch of the new Physics for Modern Technology degree, a one-of-a-kind hands-on program designed with the needs of local industry in mind. This program embodies the true polytechnic mandate of KPU and the spirit of the Faculty of Science,” says Dean Elizabeth Worobec.
Program content will include topics such as: Quantum physics, optics and optoelectronics, electricity and magnetism, electronics, computer programming, business, industrial process control and signal and image processing. Special topics concerning green energy technology and geographical information systems are also planned.
First-year courses are available this fall, with the full program launch beginning September 2014. The program will be offered on KPU's Richmond campus.
For more information on the new degree and to view the full proposal, visit: http://www.kpu.ca/science/physics/ModernTechnology or contact Takashi Sato at takashi.sato@kpu.ca or 604-599-2656.
Kwantlen Polytechnic University has been serving the Metro Vancouver region for 30 years, and has opened doors to success for more than 250,000 people. Four campuses—Richmond, Surrey, Cloverdale and Langley—offer a comprehensive range of sought-after programs, including business, liberal arts, science, design, health, trades and technology, apprenticeships, horticulture, and academic and career advancement. Over 18,000 students annually have a choice from over 200 programs, including bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, diplomas, certificates and citations. Learn more at www.kpu.ca.
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For more information about KPU, contact:
Hayley Woodin
Media Specialist
Tel: 604.599.2883
hayley.woodin@kpu.ca