Kwantlen Polytechnic University
AC-3: Undergraduate Program

The Bachelor of Applied Science in Sustainable Agriculture degree is unique to North America and is distinguished from other agriculture degree programs by providing a broad scope of study related to sustainable food production as an integral and fundamentally critical element of sustainable human existence. Through a distinctive and exceptional combination of classroom and farm-based learning, the program offers a comprehensive perspective on:

• The science of agro-ecosystem design and stewardship


• Innovative and ecologically sound crop production methods


• Sustainable farm business management


• The economic, social, and environmental challenges facing our food system

The Bachelor of Arts, Major in Policy Studies (“POST”) is an interdisciplinary applied degree that integrates concepts from economics, geography, environmental protection, philosophy, political science, law, Indigenous studies, and psychology. Students will learn how public policy can be used to achieve sustainability goals and apply their skills to projects with community partners within and beyond Surrey. The Major includes core courses that present key elements of public policy and critical sustainability theory and issues. Additionally, students take applied seminars where they can use their research and analytical skills to develop solutions to contemporary challenges such as climate justice, inclusive and affordable housing, and biodiversity. Supplementary multidisciplinary courses strengthen the foundation and increase the depth of student knowledge by introducing diverse skills, methodologies, and practices. Over the course of a Policy Studies degree, students will develop strong analytical, writing, and critical thinking skills, a deep understanding of the complex sustainability issues facing society today, and knowledge of how to advance societal change. Students are encouraged to complete a complementary minor such as philosophy, economics, geography, Indigenous studies, or political science in addition to the major in Policy Studies. 

The Bachelor of Horticulture Science Urban Ecosystems Major is the only undergraduate degree in North America dedicated to the study of urban ecosystems. At KPU, the Urban Ecosystems Major is an interdisciplinary program that combines horticulture, ecology, design, biology, chemistry, mathematics, business, and student-selected electives from the breadth of courses offered throughout KPU. Students synthesize the science and practice of horticulture to resolve community, industry, and research-related problems in urban environments. Innovation and creative critical thinking are important essential skills that students gain through applied research projects. The Urban Ecosystems program puts theory into practice through student-led projects. They are testing and adapting ideas about urban ecosystems in real time, on the KPU Langley Campus through protection, design, and management of a living landscape. They have a 550 m2 dedicated Roof Ecosystem Research Lab where we test plants, grow food, and manage a permanent grassland habitat. On the ground, they have a 65-metre rain garden and a vertical living wall rain garden. They are actively repairing, re-Indigenizing and managing 1.5 hectares of floodplain habitat alongside Logan Creek, which flows through the campus.

The Bachelor of Horticulture Science program has the following strengths:

• Customized education through the selection of electives that support learner educational goals


• Emphasis on the economic, environmental, and social components of sustainability


• Strong connections with horticulture industry and community groups


• Development of essential skills such as teamwork, creative thinking, problem solving, and communication


• Capstone research courses which include business planning and the application of new skills to a community based issue


• Required work experience in horticulture

Certificate in non-governmental organizations and non-profit studies: https://calendar.kpu.ca/programs-az/arts/non-governmental-organizations-nonprofit-studies/non-governmental-organizations-nonprofit-studies-certificate/