Students wanting to specialize in cloud computing security or the user experience in interactive apps will soon have new opportunities to do so at Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU).
Thanks to funding from the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills, KPU is creating two new programs: Cloud Architecture and Security citation, which will be offered through the Melville School of Business, and Front-End Development for Interactive Applications diploma, through the Wilson School of Design.
“Most organizations believe that cloud technology and its security are essential for survival, but the problem of having a skill gap has also become an urgent concern,” says Heather Harrison, dean pro tem of the Melville School of Business.
“To meet the needs of both employers and learners, KPU's Cloud Architecture and Security citation will prepare its graduates to pursue a rewarding and challenging career in cloud computing and security.”
The collaboration between the two schools combines business acumen with design and technology expertise, addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals in interactive application development and unlocking valuable career prospects in the ever-evolving technology industry.
“The Wilson School of Design eagerly welcomes this opportunity to collaborate with the Melville School of Business and to expand upon on existing successful tech-based programming”, says Andhra Goundrey, dean in the Wilson School of Design at KPU.
“This program will help students bring together their skills in design and technology and help respond to industry needs for high demand, career-ready graduates.”
More than $800,000 was allocated to create the two new courses from provincial funding for 3,000 new technology-relevant spaces in B.C. post-secondary education.
“Our economy is changing, workplaces are transforming, and we have more job openings in growing and in-demand fields than we have the skilled workers ready to fill them,” said Selina Robinson, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills.
“People with technological skills and knowledge are in high demand within nearly every sector – from agriculture to manufacturing. That’s why we launched our Future Ready Action Plan and are funding more training for in-demand careers.”
"We are thrilled, and grateful to the province, to be receiving the funds to develop these programs. Part of being a leading polytechnic institution is constant movement towards the cutting edge and our communities' concrete needs for education," says Dr. David Burns, associate vice president, academic.
More details about the new courses will be released later this year.