KPU launches brewing certificate and engineering physics diploma

Starting this September, Kwantlen Polytechnic University will launch two new programs: a one-year certificate in brewing and a two-year diploma in engineering physics.

“We have developed these new programs … with flexibility in mind,” says Amy Jeon, dean pro tem of the Faculty of Science.

“[The] traditional four-year degree that we have in higher education may not meet the evolving needs of today’s diverse learners.”

According to Jeon, data from the Office of Planning and Accountability at KPU shows that only about 31 to 32 per cent of KPU science students take more than three courses per semester, and many balance their studies with part-time or full-time work. A recent student satisfaction survey highlighted the growing demand for flexible, student-centred options.

“These programs are designed with flexibility in mind,” Jeon says. “[They will] feature multiple entry and exit points while allowing students to pursue education at a pace and depth that suits the student’s need, in consideration for their circumstances while maintaining a sense of ongoing progress.” 

The brewing certificate is a 32-credit credential that complements KPU’s existing 62-credit brewing diploma. Students can complete the certificate in about a year of full-time study, gaining a solid foundation in brewing.

Similarly, the two-year engineering physics diploma provides a flexible pathway for students interested in pursuing further education in engineering and physics. The program supports both full-time and part-time study.

An added advantage of the new diploma is its eligibility for post-graduation work permit (PGWP), something the previous one-year engineering certificate could not offer.

“It does provide valuable opportunities for international students who wish to gain quality education in Canada and pursue work experience after graduation,” Jeon says. 

While KPU has faced declining enrolments in some programs, Jeon says the Faculty of Science has not experienced the same challenges.

“It is an extra credential that students can get after completing the existing courses that we currently offer. So it does not impact any faculty workload in that case,” she says. 

Both programs will accept students beginning September 2025, but Jeon encourages interested students to start planning now.

Students interested in brewing should be aware of certain prerequisites. Because of alcohol regulations, all students must be at least 19 years old to enrol in brewing courses. Some courses in the program may also require the Serving It Right certification, a program about legal regulations while serving alcohol.

For the engineering physics diploma, prerequisites vary by course and programming path.

“[These programs] are not free for all,” Jeon says. “All those prerequisites are stated on the course calendar, and [students] should be able to talk to an advisor and see what they can take,” she says. 

Students interested in applying or learning more about the programs can visit the KPU website or connect with an academic advisor.