Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) has launched North America’s first four-year degree with zero textbook costs (ZTC). The Bachelor of Arts in General Studies is the seventh ZTC credential offered at the University.
“I couldn’t be more proud of the KPU community. With over 700 courses and now 7 credentials offered with zero textbook cost, we are working together to make access to post-secondary education more affordable for all,” says Rajiv Jhangiani, associate vice-provost, open education.
The new ZTC will save each student over $5,000 over four years, based on average textbook costs. With ZTC, students use open educational resources and other library materials to complete their studies.
It’s estimated that students enrolled in ZTC courses and programs during the fall semester have saved over $900,000, with over $3.1 million saved since the launch of the first ZTC two years ago.
The open textbooks are authored by KPU instructors and faculty from other institutions. Jhangiani says the plan is to launch more degree programs with zero textbook costs.
“Students in the general studies arts program will now be able to focus more on their studies instead of worrying about how to pay for their books,” says Diane Purvey, dean, Faculty of Arts at KPU. “We are proud and excited this arts program is now ZTC.”
The launch of this course coincides with Open Access Week which runs from October 21 – 27.
Learn more about the ZTC courses and programs at KPU here.