Wilson School of Design at Kwantlen Polytechnic University

The Wilson School of Design at Kwantlen Polytechnic University emphasizes practical experience and strong industry ties, leading to high graduate employment rates. Its collaborations with local and international design firms provide students with internships, co-op placements, and real-world projects, ensuring they develop relevant skills and professional networks. Although specific employment statistics are not publicly available, the school’s focus on industry integration suggests that many graduates quickly find roles in fashion, graphic design, and related fields. 

The Wilson School of Design at Kwantlen Polytechnic University has its roots in the evolution of KPU’s commitment to fostering industry-relevant education in the creative arts. Originally established as part of KPU’s broader mission to serve the community through accessible, applied learning, the school has grown over the years to become a prominent hub for design education in British Columbia. Its focus has always been on integrating academic learning with practical, real-world experience to prepare students for successful careers in design-related fields.

The school was formally named the Wilson School of Design in recognition of a significant donation from the Wilson family, which underscored the institution’s dedication to advancing design education. This naming reflects a partnership and commitment to fostering excellence in design training, innovation, and industry engagement. The Wilson School of Design has since expanded its program offerings, including Fashion Design, Interior Design, Graphic Design, and Product Design, aiming to provide comprehensive, industry-focused education that aligns with current market demands.

Throughout its history, the Wilson School of Design has emphasized collaboration with industry leaders and the integration of experiential learning into its curriculum. This approach has helped the school build a reputation for producing graduates who are well-prepared for the workforce, with strong portfolios and professional networks. The school continually updates its programs to reflect technological advancements and shifts within the design industry, ensuring students are equipped with cutting-edge skills and knowledge.

Today, the Wilson School of Design stands as a leading institution in design education within Canada, known for its innovative programs, industry partnerships, and commitment to student success. Its ongoing development includes state-of-the-art facilities, faculty with industry experience, and a focus on sustainability and entrepreneurship. The school’s history of growth and adaptation demonstrates its dedication to maintaining relevance and excellence in the ever-evolving field of design, making it a respected name in tertiary education nationwide

The Wilson School of Design offers four Bachelor of Design degrees, three diplomas, one certificate, and CIDA accreditation for interior designers.

The Fashion Marketing Diploma is a rigorous, full-time, two year program. The faculty of experienced professionals have industry knowledge of technique, process and context to help guide each student on a path of self and creative discovery. The small class sizes ensure that the faculty can mentor each student and help them realize their own unique  potential. The purpose-built building for the KPU Wilson School of Design allows for collaboration and community-building with designers in other disciplines. 
 

The Fashion and Technology degree program has an international reputation for building tomorrow’s fashion leaders. Its unique, industry-focused curriculum gives students the design skills, business acumen and marketing savvy needed to compete in the global fashion marketplace. Many of the graduates secure positions in local apparel and design companies well before graduation and others find that the often sold-out graduation showcase events — attended by industry and media —  help launch their design career.

The ‘Foundations in Design’ program actively nurture the community of alumni to form a reservoir of support, connections and advice which will assist new graduates. In just eight months, they’ll graduate with a portfolio that will open doors to the top design schools across Canada. And, the faculty of experienced, working professionals bring industry knowledge to guide the learning experience. 

The Graphic Design for Marketing Program at the KPU Wilson School of Design is the only program of its kind in Canada. Students consistently place highly in prestigious design and scholarship competitions such as the RDG Trail Blazer Awards. Graduates are job-ready as they can problem-solve or create novel solutions — necessary skills for the designers of the future.

The  Bachelor of  Interior Design Program at the KPU Wilson School of Design is accreted by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation and has professional degree status, making it the quickest path to becoming a professional interior designer. The CIDA accreditation ensures that the curriculum meets and exceeds industry standards. the school provides a practical and theoretical knowledge base that meets the definition and practice of interior design as described by the National Council for Interior Design Qualification. 
 

The Wilson School of Design at Kwantlen Polytechnic University is recognized for its innovative approach to design education in Canada, but it does not typically feature in global MBA rankings because its primary focus is on design and creative disciplines rather than business or management programs. The school is well-regarded within Canada for its emphasis on practical, industry-focused training and its strong connections with local and international design industries, making it a respected institution for students pursuing careers in design, fashion, and related fields.

The Wilson School of Design at Kwantlen Polytechnic University is recognised for its strong emphasis on practical experience and industry integration, which significantly enhances its job placement and employment rates for graduates. The program maintains close ties with local and international design firms, fashion companies, and creative industries, providing students with valuable internship opportunities, co-op placements, and real-world projects. This hands-on approach ensures that students graduate with relevant skills, professional networks, and industry insights, making them highly employable upon completion of their studies.

While specific job integration rate statistics for the Wilson School of Design are not publicly detailed, the school’s reputation for fostering industry connections and practical training suggests a high employment rate for graduates within the design and creative sectors. Many alumni secure positions in fashion, graphic design, product development, and related fields shortly after graduation, reflecting the school’s commitment to industry readiness. The focus on experiential learning and industry collaboration continues to be a key factor in preparing students for successful careers and smooth transitions into the workforce.

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