Change and innovation these are hallmarks of Kwantlen Polytechnic University's Langley campus.
KPU is leading the way in many of its Langley-based programs, most notably in horticulture, sciences, health and music.
KPU's School of Horticulture is already being touted as a shining example of originality. The Canadian Foundation for Innovation awarded over $2.2 million to fund research into new production systems, crops for green energy greenhouses and development of biocontrols for horticulture crops.
"We have a great research institution in horticulture - a very strong program with strong instructors," says Dr. Alan Davis, KPU president and vice-chancellor.
Its ground-breaking courses are designed to prepare students for careers in sustainable agriculture, greenhouse production, environmental protection, plant health and more.
A well-regarded apprenticeship program is a key component.
Students literally get their hands dirty in an outdoor classroom for research, demonstration and crop production. The field lab has 0.3 hectares of gardens and beds representing a full range of landscapes.
"When you add the cutting-edge science labs, a botany lab, greenhouses, polyhouses, container and in-ground nurseries, you have created the best environment for students to succeed," says Dr. Davis.
KPU's Langley campus is also renowned for its strong music, health and science faculties.
KPU's Faculty of Community and Health Studies (CAHS) offers programs that are grounded in the concepts of caring, collaboration, inclusion and development of healthier communities. CAHS programs vary in length from four year bachelor degrees to five month citations.
The arts curriculum includes a Bachelor of Music in Musical Arts, a Diploma in Music and Associate of Arts: Music. KPU's classrooms, teaching studios and individual practice rooms were specifically created for music instruction from solo to orchestral performance.
"Our Langley campus is the most community-engaged campus of all four," adds Davis. "As the population of Langley and neighbouring communities grows, KPU will add programs to make sure that what we offer is always pertinent to Langley. In fact, we collaborate with both the City and Township regularly to ensure our programs are the right ones."
Building strong community connections is a key objective for KPU.
"The City of Langley is a great place to live, work and play. Our population density and thriving economy attract businesses that want to become part of our long-term growth," says Peter Fassbender, mayor, City of Langley. "KPU is a vital link between our young workforce and the diverse business opportunities that we have now and will continue to develop. KPU is well-positioned to respond to the growth of our region and its increased post-secondary education needs."
"Universities are key economic drivers in any community. We are proud to have KPU in our region," says Jack Froese, mayor, Township of Langley. "We look forward to strengthening our ties with KPU to help foster innovation as we move forward with our economic development plans and diversify our local economy, increase local employment opportunities and create a learning community. As the Township grows, so too will our need for increased access to education and skills training. KPU will be integral to filling that need."
