Where thought meets action.
We’re the only 7 program, interdisciplinary university design school in Western Canada.
Good design doesn’t just happen. We push boundaries and challenge assumptions, always moving forward in pursuing potential. Because true brilliance is born not from chance, but from purposeful transformation. We foster empowered, gutsy and progressive thinkers, we embrace uncertainty and failure, to fuel new thinking and real solutions. Students explore, discover and apply the design process, they continuously gain confidence in the process itself and ultimately themselves.
We are proud to be one of seven faculties at Kwantlen Polytechnic University. Established by the government of British Columbia in 1981, Kwantlen, now Kwantlen Polytechnic University, has five campuses located in the Metro Vancouver region of British Columbia. KPU offers bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, diplomas, certificates and citations in more than 140 programs.
The Wilson School of Design offers four Bachelor of Design degrees, two diplomas, one certificate, and CIDA accreditation for interior designers. Curious? Take the next step forward in your pursuit of potential.
Learn more about our seven design programs:
Territorial Acknowledgement
Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) takes its name from the Kwantlen First Nation.
We work, study, and live in a region south of the Fraser River which overlaps with the unceded traditional and ancestral lands of the Kwantlen, Musqueam, Katzie, Semiahmoo, Tsawwassen, Qayqayt and Kwikwetlem peoples.
Proudly sharing the name of the Kwantlen First Nation, the word ‘Kwantlen’ means Tireless Runner, and is reflected in the university’s motto: “through tireless effort, knowledge, and understanding.” The representation of a wolf and salmon in KPU’s Coat of Arms, was created by former KPU Fine Arts student, Brandon Gabriel, nephew of the hereditary Chief of the Kwantlen People, Chief Marilyn Gabriel.
In 2015, KPU appointed its first Elder in Residence, Lekeyten of the Kwantlen First Nation. In his role, Lekeyten supports Indigenous students on their educational journey sharing knowledge, traditions, teachings, and promoting an understanding and respect for Indigenous perspectives, cultures, and values.
Further underscoring the respect and interconnectedness of the university and the First Nation, KPU’s Chancellor and President, and Vice Chancellor, have both been given the title and responsibility of Sí:yá:m (Leader) by the Chief of the Kwantlen First Nation.
More information about the school can be found at kpu.ca/design or by contacting our Future Students’ Office.
Gabrielle Durning, Communications & Events Coordinator – Wilson School of Design gabrielle.durning
