A powerful new partnership is opening doors for high school students across Delta, Richmond, and Langley. Thanks to a Ministry of Education and Child Care grant, the three districts have teamed up with Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) to launch an exciting new Biomedical and Health Science Program a dual credit opportunity designed to give students a head start on in-demand careers.
KPU Dual Credit Biomedical Program Students from Delta, Richmond and Langley School Districts
This innovative program offers a direct pathway into fields such as nursing, psychiatric nursing, medical and health services manager, biomedical scientist, public health office/analyst, biotechnologist. Students can also begin progressing toward Bachelor of Science degrees at KPU, including Health Science, Biology, and Nursing/Psych Nursing.
"The first cohort of students started the course on February 3 at the KPU Surrey campus and will be taking four courses including Anatomy and Physiology I, Anatomy and Physiology II, Introduction to University Writing, and Introduction to Psychology," said Lisa Chapieski, District Coordinator, Student Options & Opportunities, Delta School District.
Early feedback from participants shows a mix of excitement, pride, and a healthy dose of nerves as they begin their transition into university-level learning.
"I want to pursue biology as my job in the future," said Zachary from Sands Secondary who shared that the dual credit opportunity allows him to explore the subject he loves and earn high school and university credits at the same time, for free. "I'm most excited for the biology classes and the ability to learn more about living organisms."
"This program allows me to get ahead on learning more," said Julianna from Burnsview Secondary. "It also offers a slower transition from high school to university. It felt exciting to be graduating differently than my peers because I have worked a long time to get somewhere I've wanted to be. I'm looking forward to all the new things I am going to learn, but also a little nervous about the change in expectations."
"It's exciting to be part of this amazing opportunity," said Luke from Delview Secondary. "I enrolled because of my fascination with biology and the medical field. I'm really looking forward to the biology labs."
Anahcel, from Delta Secondary who plans to pursue nursing, says the program gives her valuable exposure to the healthcare field. "I'm excited to start learning about the healthcare field early and to gain new skills and experience but also nervous about quizzes, exams, and the increased workload. I feel proud to take a different path that pushed me out of my comfort zone as its helping me prepare me for the future."
A New Business Pathway on the Horizon
Building on the success of the Biomedical program and supported by another Ministry grant Delta, Richmond, and Langley will launch a dual credit Business Program at KPU next year. Students will complete their first semester at their home school before transitioning to full-time study at KPU in their second semester.
This pathway can lead to diverse careers such as becoming an entrepreneur, accountant, human resources manager, social media manager, marketing manager, and project manager. It also connects students to KPU degree and diploma programs including Accounting, Entrepreneurial Leadership, Human Resources Management, Marketing, and Business Administration.
Both new dual credit programs give Grade 11 and 12 students the chance to accelerate their post-secondary journey and building confidence early.
"Our goal is to make sure every student in B.C. graduates with confidence in their ability to shape a successful future," said Lisa Beare, Minister of Education and Child Care. "Dual credit programs reduce the amount of time and money that high school students will need to complete their post-secondary education because participating students don't pay tuition, and they earn both high school and college credits. As careers and technologies continue to evolve, giving young people real-world skills and opportunities to explore different career paths will help them thrive in post-secondary and today's job market."
"Collaboration between secondary schools and post-secondary institutions is essential because it allows us to create intentional, well-aligned pathways for students," said Zena Mitchell, KPU's Vice President of Students. "These partnerships help build confidence, demystify post-secondary education, and open doors that might otherwise remain closed."
Lisa Chapieski agrees:
"Programs such as these open doors for students who may never have envisioned themselves on a college campus. They help students see that they belong in post-secondary, all while supported by familiar faces and a supervising teacher they can turn to with questions. We're delighted that the Ministry is supporting these partnerships with KPU. We know the Ministry is keen to expand dual credit opportunities in areas of high demand, so it's a win-win for everyone."
"This type of collaboration between schools and post-secondary institutions is so important and aligns perfectly with our mission to inspire and nurture thriving future-ready learners," shared Doug Sheppard, Superintendent of Schools.
