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Product Design

Kwantlen Polytechnic University

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Checked 2026-11-05

Symbolic subject artwork; no university facility depicted

Deadlines

March 2027

MonTueWedThuFriSatSun
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Next deadline

  • Wilson School of Design application

    Fall 2027 entry · Wilson School of Design applicants

    Official deadline
Other deadline details
No central deadline, each B.C. institution sets its own application open and close datesEducationPlannerBC, deadlines are set per institutionRecurring annual · Every year
  • No central deadline, each B.C. institution sets its own application open and close dates
  • No central B.C. deadline
  • Each institution and sometimes each program sets its own dates
Full source wording

Verbatim: "Each institution sets their own application open and close dates. These dates also may vary based on the program you are applying to. You can use the search database to explore programs you are interested in applying to or visit the institution's website directly. Please refer to the institution's website or contact the Admissions/Registrar's Office directly for application deadlines and details." EducationPlannerBC is the single application service for B.C.'s 25 public post-secondary institutions but publishes no deadline dates of its own.

SourceChecked
July 1Fall final/open-intake applicationStanding annual Fall admission timeline · Every year
  • Canadian/PR applicants
  • programme-specific earlier deadlines remain applicable
  • July 1
  • No entry year is stated
  • Programme intake type and availability must be checked in the calendar and application checklist
  • The domestic table permits some select limited-intake consideration after the final/open-intake date
SourceChecked
July 1Fall final/open-intake applicationStanding annual Fall admission timeline · Every year
  • International applicants
  • programme-specific earlier deadlines remain applicable
  • July 1
  • No entry year is stated
  • Programme intake type and availability must be checked in the calendar and application checklist
  • The international table says no applications after this final date
SourceChecked
March 1Fall limited-intake applicationStanding annual Fall admission timeline · Every year
  • Canadian/PR limited-intake applicants
  • March 1
  • No entry year is stated
  • Programme intake type and availability must be checked in the calendar and application checklist
  • Some limited intakes close early or have published extensions
SourceChecked
March 1Fall limited-intake applicationStanding annual Fall admission timeline · Every year
  • International limited-intake applicants
  • March 1
  • No entry year is stated
  • Programme intake type and availability must be checked in the calendar and application checklist
  • Some limited intakes close early or have published extensions
SourceChecked

Requirements

Admission requirements

High-school prerequisites
  • English 12 or equivalent (minimum C+)
  • Meet the applicable KPU general applicant-category and undergraduate English-proficiency requirements.
KPU Product Design: official programme model, admission requirements on page 2
Application steps

Entry terms · Fall

Wilson School of Design first-entry Bachelor of Design degrees, Richmond.

Wilson School of Design fall-only intake policy
  1. Step 1Check the admission requirements
    • Check the published entry route for your applicant category.
    KPU Product Design: official programme model, admission requirements on page 2KPU Product Design: official programme model, admission requirements on page 2
  2. Step 2Apply through EducationPlannerBC
    • Create your application and select this program.
    EducationPlannerBCEducationPlannerBC
  3. Step 3Official secondary-school transcript
    • KPU requires transcripts from every secondary and postsecondary institution attended.
    KPU official transcript requirementsKPU official transcript requirements
  4. Step 4$40 domestic application fee
    • The non-refundable fee applies to one application term.
    KPU application fees and depositsKPU application fees and deposits
  5. Step 5Design admission package or portfolio
    • The Wilson School of Design publishes a program-specific portfolio or entrance-package requirement for each bachelor program.
    Wilson School of Design admission requirementsWilson School of Design admission requirements
  6. Step 6Design interview
    • An interview is part of the published selection process for the Wilson School of Design bachelor programs.
    Wilson School of Design admission requirementsWilson School of Design admission requirements
  7. Step 7Apply to KPU through EducationPlannerBC in your applicable applicant category.
    • Complete this item using the university’s applicant instructions.
    KPU Product Design: official programme model, admission requirements on page 2KPU Product Design: official programme model, admission requirements on page 2
  8. Step 8Provide required academic and English-proficiency evidence to Admissions, using the instructions emailed after applying; English proof is not uploaded to SlideRoom.
    • Complete this item using the university’s applicant instructions.
    KPU Product Design: official programme model, admission requirements on page 2KPU Product Design: official programme model, admission requirements on page 2
  9. Step 9Prepare a PDF portfolio with six to eight recent work examples, process documentation and at least one complete project.
    • Complete this item using the university’s applicant instructions.
    KPU Product Design: official programme model, admission requirements on page 2KPU Product Design: official programme model, admission requirements on page 2
  10. Step 10Use the emailed SlideRoom link to upload the complete original-work entrance package, provide data privacy consent and pay the supplemental portal fee.
    • Complete this item using the university’s applicant instructions.
    KPU Product Design: official programme model, admission requirements on page 2KPU Product Design: official programme model, admission requirements on page 2
  11. Step 11Use the myKPU Application Checklist & Status record to identify outstanding documents, programme-specific requirements and any assigned deadline. Limited-intake additional items are conditional, not universal.
    • Complete this item using the university’s applicant instructions.
    KPU Product Design: official programme model, admission requirements on page 2KPU Product Design: official programme model, admission requirements on page 2
  12. Step 12Arrange official academic records under the correct high-school or post-secondary procedure. Current BC high-school students release records through StudentTranscripts Service; other applicants use the published issuing-institution and out-of-country rules.
    • Complete this item using the university’s applicant instructions.
    KPU Product Design: official programme model, admission requirements on page 2KPU Product Design: official programme model, admission requirements on page 2
  13. Step 13Current high-school branches publish March 1 interim and August 1 final-record timing, subject to earlier limited-intake requirements. If transfer credit is requested, provide the required prior records and any requested course outlines.
    • Complete this item using the university’s applicant instructions.
    KPU Product Design: official programme model, admission requirements on page 2KPU Product Design: official programme model, admission requirements on page 2
Applicant pathways
Applicant category

High-school, transfer, mature or Indigenous applicants as explicitly defined

  • High School : A graduate of a BC secondary school or an equivalent school system. ( Note: Proof of June graduation must be received in order to be eligible for Fall admission. High school students graduating in August are considered for Spring admission. High school students graduating in January are considered for Summer admission. )
  • Transfer: An applicant who has successfully completed 9 or more credits above the preparatory level from a recognized post-secondary institution.
  • Mature: An applicant who will be 19 years of age or older on the first day of the term of admission.
  • Indigenous: An Indigenous applicant who wishes to be considered for admission by the Indigenous Admissions Committee on an individual basis.
  • For further details on all of KPU's applicant categories, refer to the university Calendar.
KPU current general applicant categories and named open/limited admission directory
English evidence

All undergraduate applicants; exact programme criteria can be higher

  • Meet KPU undergraduate English proficiency using an accepted high-school, university/KPU course or testing route. The current official FAQ names English Studies 12 C+ or three undergraduate English credits C− as qualifying course routes; other accepted routes require calendar review.
KPU current undergraduate admission FAQ
Product Design: portfolio

Applicants to this named design degree; entrance package submitted through SlideRoom

  • A PDF portfolio with six to eight examples of work produced in the last two years, using varied media.
  • Show your process through a journal, sketchbook or other process documentation.
  • Include at least one complete project from initial research and sketches through revisions and tests to the final result.
  • Explain each project’s goals, date, size and medium, and whether it was completed for school or independently.
  • Applicants from engineering, science, trades or technical programmes should include projects showing programming, building or design skills.
KPU Product Design: exact current entrance package
Product Design: interview stage

Applicants to this named design degree; entrance package submitted through SlideRoom

  • Successful entrance-package applicants are contacted for an in-person or remote interview; complete it when invited. An interview invitation does not guarantee admission.
  • Information sessions are recommended, not required.
KPU Product Design: exact current entrance package
Original applicant work

All design entrance-package submissions

  • Written and creative submissions must be your original work. Explicitly identify group projects and credit each contributor.
  • Plagiarism and generative AI content are prohibited by the programme’s entrance-package policy.
KPU Product Design: exact current entrance package
Individually assessed transfer and experience credit

Applicants with previous postsecondary coursework or relevant industry experience

  • Transfer credit is individually assessed; consult the Office of the Registrar with your previous coursework.
  • Relevant industry experience may be assessed for Prior Learning Assessment credit. This is not a guaranteed amount of transfer credit or an alternative to the entrance package.
KPU Product Design: current degree programme details
High-school applicant category and graduation timing

BC secondary-school graduates or an equivalent school system

  • Qualify through secondary graduation or an equivalent school system, then satisfy the chosen programme/faculty requirements. For Fall entry the page requires proof of June graduation. August graduates are considered for Spring; January graduates for Summer. No new admission year or ISO deadline is inferred.
kpu categories · official applicant policy
Transfer applicant category

Applicants with recognized prior postsecondary credits

  • The public category requires at least9 successfully completed credits above preparatory level from a recognized postsecondary institution. Category recognition is followed by the programme’s actual entry requirements; it does not guarantee credit transfer or waive a later-entry programme’s higher credit requirement.
kpu categories · official applicant policy
Mature applicant category

Applicants aged19 or older on the first day of the admission term

  • Age establishes the mature applicant category. Applicants must still satisfy the stated programme/faculty and appropriate English-proficiency requirements. No general age-based prerequisite waiver is published here.
kpu categories · official applicant policy
Indigenous individual admission category

Indigenous applicants requesting individual committee consideration

  • An Indigenous applicant may request consideration by the Indigenous Admissions Committee on an individual basis. The category does not itself promise admission to a limited intake or satisfy a programme’s special requirements.
kpu categories · official applicant policy
Open versus limited intake after applicant-category review

All KPU applicants; exact programme intake classification remains controlling

  • Qualifying for an applicant category is only the first step. Open-intake study follows the relevant faculty admission requirements; limited-intake programmes follow their own programme requirements and capacity limits.
  • Undergraduate applicants must satisfy the undergraduate English-proficiency requirement through an accepted school course, undergraduate/KPU course or test. Those unable to satisfy undergraduate requirements may be eligible for the separate Pathway to Undergraduate Studies; no automatic progression or approved equivalence is inferred.
kpu categories · official applicant policy

Degree requirements

Credits and degree requirements
  • 2026–27 calendar minimum credits required for the complete credential: 120. Major-only course tables do not replace linked degree-framework requirements.
ReferencesKPU current-linked Product Design programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1KPU current Product Design programme detailsKPU current programme duration and cohortKPU exact published course content from the held native catalogueKPU exact published course content from the held native catalogueKPU exact published course content from the held native catalogueKPU exact published course content from the held native catalogueKPU 2026–27 exact degree/major requirementsKPU Wilson School of Design: actual Richmond campus study facilities

Program facts

Entering averageNot published

The university does not publish a comparable percentage minimum or entering-average range for this program.

KPU current exact design entrance requirements
Work experiencePracticum placements

Third-year industry placement, shown as DESN 3630 Industry Experience in the Spring model. Pay is not established by this source.

KPU current Product Design programme details
KPU current Product Design programme detailsCheck work experience options

Courses

Published eight-semester programme model, revised 10/07/2025. Course credits are not printed in this planner. Elective slots are retained in the term notes.

Year 1: Fall5 listed
KPU current-linked Product Design programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1
Year 1: Spring5 listed

Choose DEPD 1260 or DESN 1220. The planner prints only the DESN 1220 code, not its individual title.

  • DEPD 1200Studio 2: Design Methods for Soft Materials3 credits

    Students will be introduced to the properties, potential, and language of soft materials.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DEPD 1240Computer-Aided Design Fundamentals3 credits

    Students will examine computer aided design hardware and software in relation to product design.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DEPD 1140Model Making3 credits

    Students will apply creative and innovative problem-solving skills to comprehensive three-dimensional design projects focusing on hard materials, such as wood and derivates like paper or medium-density fibreboard (MDF), plastics, resins, foams, and metals.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DESN 1150Designing for Humanity3 credits

    Students will examine the relationship between design decisions and current and historical environmental issues contributing to anthropogenic climate change.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DEPD 1260Design Histories3 credits

    Students will examine developments in design through artifacts generated and used by humans from prehistory to the present day.

    Choose DEPD 1260 or DESN 1220 for this model slot.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
KPU current-linked Product Design programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1
Year 2: Fall4 listed
KPU current-linked Product Design programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1
Year 2: Spring4 listed
KPU current-linked Product Design programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1
Year 3: Fall4 listed
  • DEPD 3500Studio 5: Design for Systems Change6 credits

    Students will further explore product-service-system concepts in response to specific criteria for diverse contexts in product design.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DEPD 3520Production Cycles3 credits

    Students will study production cycles as they relate to production operations management and process sequencing.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DEPD 3530Semiotics and Affordances for Product Design3 credits

    Students will examine how semiotics impact affordances (the relation between the user and the object) in product design.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DEPD 3560New Extremes - Future Designing for Climate Adaptation3 credits

    Despite the warnings of scientists around the world and multiple reports from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the world is still on a path for extreme climate disruption.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
KPU current-linked Product Design programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1
Year 3: Spring3 listed

One elective slot.

  • DEPD 3610Studio 6: Design for Protective Apparel and Gear6 credits

    Students will further their skills in responding critically and creatively to designing apparel and protective gear for specialized markets such as high-risk, and unpredictable contexts, e.g. search and rescue, law enforcement, health and safety, and military activities.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DEPD 3640Special Topics: Design for a Changing Climate3 credits

    The climate is changing, and this affects the health of the planet and all life.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DESN 3630Industry Experience3 credits

    Students will prepare for, research, initiate and complete a faculty-approved, industry-related 120-hour practicum relevant to design, producing evidence of the practical knowledge gained during their experience and its potential application.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
KPU current-linked Product Design programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1
Year 4: Fall2 listed

Two elective slots.

KPU current-linked Product Design programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1
Year 4: Spring2 listed

One elective slot.

  • DEPD 4810Studio 8: Design for Capstone Production9 credits

    Students will produce a final prototype of their major, industry-related project in product design.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DEPD 4820Design Research Knowledge Mobilization3 credits

    Based on the students' research project conducted in parallel and complementary to DEPD 4810, students will organize, process, and reflect on data they collected in DEPD 4810, and present their findings and conclusions in the form of infographics, artifacts, presentations, posters, videos, reels, reports, short articles and/or research papers.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
KPU current-linked Product Design programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1
Year 1: Fall5 listed
  • DEPD 1100Studio 1: Design Methods for Hard Materials3 credits

    Students will be introduced to properties, potential, and the language of materials.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • DEPD 1110Visualization for Product Design3 credits

    Students will develop fundamental skills in visualization for product design (sketching, drawing, and rendering).

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • DEPD 1130Design Research Methods3 credits

    Research helps us understand the world and improve human wellbeing while alleviating the damage created to the planet.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • DEPD 1250Construction Technologies for Soft Materials3 credits

    Students will learn fundamental techniques and methods of construction technology related to soft materials for applications in product design.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • ENGL 1100Introduction to University Writing3 credits

    In this introductory university writing course, students will develop their abilities in critical reading and thinking, analysis, and clear written expression.

    KPU 2026–27 native course content
KPU current-linked Product Design programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1
Year 1: Spring5 listed

Choose DEPD 1260 or DESN 1220. The planner prints only the DESN 1220 code, not its individual title.

  • DEPD 1200Studio 2: Design Methods for Soft Materials3 credits

    Students will be introduced to the properties, potential, and language of soft materials.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • DEPD 1240Computer-Aided Design Fundamentals3 credits

    Students will examine computer aided design hardware and software in relation to product design.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • DEPD 1140Model Making3 credits

    Students will apply creative and innovative problem-solving skills to comprehensive three-dimensional design projects focusing on hard materials, such as wood and derivates like paper or medium-density fibreboard (MDF), plastics, resins, foams, and metals.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • DESN 1150Designing for Humanity3 credits

    Students will examine the relationship between design decisions and current and historical environmental issues contributing to anthropogenic climate change.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • DEPD 1260Design Histories3 credits

    Students will examine developments in design through artifacts generated and used by humans from prehistory to the present day.

    Choose DEPD 1260 or DESN 1220 for this model slot.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
KPU current-linked Product Design programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1
Year 2: Fall4 listed
  • DEPD 2310Studio 3: Design for Industry Context6 credits

    Students will explore concepts, using soft and hard materials, in industry context appropriate to product design.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • DEPD 2320Material Technology3 credits

    Students will investigate the technical aspects of materials in relation to product design.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • DEPD 2331Human Factors for Product Design3 credits

    Students will develop an understanding of ergonomics and human factors within the context of designing recreational and technical apparel and related soft products.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • DEPD 2340Primary Research and Ethics for Design3 credits

    Students will be introduced to the concepts and practices related to primary research.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
KPU current-linked Product Design programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1
Year 2: Spring4 listed
  • DEPD 2400Studio 4: Design for Performance: Sport and Industry6 credits

    Students will respond to design briefs and engage in rigorous research for the design of products of high performance for sport and/or diverse industries.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • DEPD 2420Production Technology3 credits

    Students will study various types of production technologies in product design.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • DEPD 2430Socio-Cultural and Planetary Context3 credits

    Students will be introduced to the complexities of societal-cultural threats and opportunities, and their interconnexion to our planetary context.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • MRKT 1199Introduction to Marketing3 credits

    Students will learn the fundamentals of marketing and explore the relationships between companies, their customers and their competition.

    KPU 2026–27 native course content
KPU current-linked Product Design programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1
Year 3: Fall4 listed
  • DEPD 3500Studio 5: Design for Systems Change6 credits

    Students will further explore product-service-system concepts in response to specific criteria for diverse contexts in product design.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • DEPD 3520Production Cycles3 credits

    Students will study production cycles as they relate to production operations management and process sequencing.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • DEPD 3530Semiotics and Affordances for Product Design3 credits

    Students will examine how semiotics impact affordances (the relation between the user and the object) in product design.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • DEPD 3560New Extremes - Future Designing for Climate Adaptation3 credits

    Despite the warnings of scientists around the world and multiple reports from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the world is still on a path for extreme climate disruption.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
KPU current-linked Product Design programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1
Year 3: Spring3 listed

One elective slot.

  • DEPD 3610Studio 6: Design for Protective Apparel and Gear6 credits

    Students will further their skills in responding critically and creatively to designing apparel and protective gear for specialized markets such as high-risk, and unpredictable contexts, e.g. search and rescue, law enforcement, health and safety, and military activities.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • DEPD 3640Special Topics: Design for a Changing Climate3 credits

    The climate is changing, and this affects the health of the planet and all life.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • DESN 3630Industry Experience3 credits

    Students will prepare for, research, initiate and complete a faculty-approved, industry-related 120-hour practicum relevant to design, producing evidence of the practical knowledge gained during their experience and its potential application.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
KPU current-linked Product Design programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1
Year 4: Fall2 listed

Two elective slots.

  • DEPD 4710Studio 7: Design Research for Capstone6 credits

    Students will synthesize their knowledge and skills, by completing feasibility studies of a major industry-related project that highlights their personal abilities in product design.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • DEPD 4720Products & Business Design3 credits

    Students will analyze the relationship between product and business opportunities.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
KPU current-linked Product Design programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1
Year 4: Spring2 listed

One elective slot.

  • DEPD 4810Studio 8: Design for Capstone Production9 credits

    Students will produce a final prototype of their major, industry-related project in product design.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • DEPD 4820Design Research Knowledge Mobilization3 credits

    Based on the students' research project conducted in parallel and complementary to DEPD 4810, students will organize, process, and reflect on data they collected in DEPD 4810, and present their findings and conclusions in the form of infographics, artifacts, presentations, posters, videos, reels, reports, short articles and/or research papers.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
KPU current-linked Product Design programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1
2026–27: Curricular Requirements31 listed

Published requirement group, with course alternatives retained. This is not a fixed academic-term timetable or an assertion that every option is required. | Credits | 15. One of: | 3. | Credits | 15. | Credits | 15. | Credits | 15. | Credits | 15. Elective | 3. | Credits | 15. Electives | 6. | Credits | 15. Elective | 3. | Credits | 15. | Total Credits | 120

  • DEPD 1100Studio 1: Design Methods for Hard Materials3 credits

    Students will be introduced to properties, potential, and the language of materials.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DEPD 1110Visualization for Product Design3 credits

    Students will develop fundamental skills in visualization for product design (sketching, drawing, and rendering).

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DEPD 1130Design Research Methods3 credits

    Research helps us understand the world and improve human wellbeing while alleviating the damage created to the planet.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DEPD 1250Construction Technologies for Soft Materials3 credits

    Students will learn fundamental techniques and methods of construction technology related to soft materials for applications in product design.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • ENGL 1100Introduction to University Writing3 credits

    In this introductory university writing course, students will develop their abilities in critical reading and thinking, analysis, and clear written expression.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DEPD 1200Studio 2: Design Methods for Soft Materials3 credits

    Students will be introduced to the properties, potential, and language of soft materials.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DEPD 1240Computer-Aided Design Fundamentals3 credits

    Students will examine computer aided design hardware and software in relation to product design.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DEPD 1140Model Making3 credits

    Students will apply creative and innovative problem-solving skills to comprehensive three-dimensional design projects focusing on hard materials, such as wood and derivates like paper or medium-density fibreboard (MDF), plastics, resins, foams, and metals.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DESN 1150Designing for Humanity3 credits

    Students will examine the relationship between design decisions and current and historical environmental issues contributing to anthropogenic climate change.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DEPD 1260Design Histories3 credits

    Students will examine developments in design through artifacts generated and used by humans from prehistory to the present day.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DESN 1121Design Connections: Then and Now3 credits

    Students will examine the ways in which the past and present are connected through designed objects, particularly how designs from the past have inspired contemporary design ideas.

    KPU 2026–27 native course content
  • DESN 1220Design History: 19th Century Onward3 credits

    Students will examine developments in graphic design, interior design, product design, fashion design, architecture, and fine arts from the Industrial Revolution to the present day, primarily in the context of the Western world.

    KPU 2026–27 native course content
  • DEPD 2310Studio 3: Design for Industry Context6 credits

    Students will explore concepts, using soft and hard materials, in industry context appropriate to product design.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DEPD 2320Material Technology3 credits

    Students will investigate the technical aspects of materials in relation to product design.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DEPD 2331Human Factors for Product Design3 credits

    Students will develop an understanding of ergonomics and human factors within the context of designing recreational and technical apparel and related soft products.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DEPD 2340Primary Research and Ethics for Design3 credits

    Students will be introduced to the concepts and practices related to primary research.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DEPD 2400Studio 4: Design for Performance: Sport and Industry6 credits

    Students will respond to design briefs and engage in rigorous research for the design of products of high performance for sport and/or diverse industries.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DEPD 2420Production Technology3 credits

    Students will study various types of production technologies in product design.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DEPD 2430Socio-Cultural and Planetary Context3 credits

    Students will be introduced to the complexities of societal-cultural threats and opportunities, and their interconnexion to our planetary context.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • MRKT 1199Introduction to Marketing3 credits

    Students will learn the fundamentals of marketing and explore the relationships between companies, their customers and their competition.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DEPD 3500Studio 5: Design for Systems Change6 credits

    Students will further explore product-service-system concepts in response to specific criteria for diverse contexts in product design.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DEPD 3520Production Cycles3 credits

    Students will study production cycles as they relate to production operations management and process sequencing.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DEPD 3530Semiotics and Affordances for Product Design3 credits

    Students will examine how semiotics impact affordances (the relation between the user and the object) in product design.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DEPD 3560New Extremes - Future Designing for Climate Adaptation3 credits

    Despite the warnings of scientists around the world and multiple reports from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the world is still on a path for extreme climate disruption.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DEPD 3610Studio 6: Design for Protective Apparel and Gear6 credits

    Students will further their skills in responding critically and creatively to designing apparel and protective gear for specialized markets such as high-risk, and unpredictable contexts, e.g. search and rescue, law enforcement, health and safety, and military activities.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DESN 3630Industry Experience3 credits

    Students will prepare for, research, initiate and complete a faculty-approved, industry-related 120-hour practicum relevant to design, producing evidence of the practical knowledge gained during their experience and its potential application.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DEPD 3640Special Topics: Design for a Changing Climate3 credits

    The climate is changing, and this affects the health of the planet and all life.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DEPD 4710Studio 7: Design Research for Capstone6 credits

    Students will synthesize their knowledge and skills, by completing feasibility studies of a major industry-related project that highlights their personal abilities in product design.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DEPD 4720Products & Business Design3 credits

    Students will analyze the relationship between product and business opportunities.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DEPD 4810Studio 8: Design for Capstone Production9 credits

    Students will produce a final prototype of their major, industry-related project in product design.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • DEPD 4820Design Research Knowledge Mobilization3 credits

    Based on the students' research project conducted in parallel and complementary to DEPD 4810, students will organize, process, and reflect on data they collected in DEPD 4810, and present their findings and conclusions in the form of infographics, artifacts, presentations, posters, videos, reels, reports, short articles and/or research papers.

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KPU 2026–27 exact degree/major requirements
Mapped terms

Eight-term Product Design programme model revised October 7, 2025. DEPD-1260 is the displayed option; its DESN-1220 alternative and four elective slots remain in notes. Original held course objects and source dates are preserved; no new 2027 cohort plan is asserted. Choice-slot coverage is partial.

Year 1
Year 1: Fall
Year 1: Spring

Choose DEPD 1260 or DESN 1220. The planner prints only the DESN 1220 code, not its individual title. This map shows DEPD 1260; DESN 1220 is the alternative and is not simultaneously required.

  • DEPD 1200Studio 2: Design Methods for Soft Materials3 credits

    Students will be introduced to the properties, potential, and language of soft materials.

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  • DEPD 1240Computer-Aided Design Fundamentals3 credits

    Students will examine computer aided design hardware and software in relation to product design.

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  • DEPD 1140Model Making3 credits

    Students will apply creative and innovative problem-solving skills to comprehensive three-dimensional design projects focusing on hard materials, such as wood and derivates like paper or medium-density fibreboard (MDF), plastics, resins, foams, and metals.

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  • DESN 1150Designing for Humanity3 credits

    Students will examine the relationship between design decisions and current and historical environmental issues contributing to anthropogenic climate change.

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  • DEPD 1260Design Histories3 creditsChoose one

    Students will examine developments in design through artifacts generated and used by humans from prehistory to the present day.

    Choose DEPD 1260 or DESN 1220 for this model slot.

    Choose one

    2026–27 calendar; curriculum effective 01-Sep-2024.

    • DEPD 1260 · Design Histories
    • DESN 1121 · Design Connections: Then and Now
    • DESN 1220 · Design History: 19th Century Onward
    KPU 2026–27 published programme alternative menu
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Year 2
Year 2: Fall
Year 2: Spring
Year 3
Year 3: Fall
  • DEPD 3500Studio 5: Design for Systems Change6 credits

    Students will further explore product-service-system concepts in response to specific criteria for diverse contexts in product design.

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  • DEPD 3520Production Cycles3 credits

    Students will study production cycles as they relate to production operations management and process sequencing.

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  • DEPD 3530Semiotics and Affordances for Product Design3 credits

    Students will examine how semiotics impact affordances (the relation between the user and the object) in product design.

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  • DEPD 3560New Extremes - Future Designing for Climate Adaptation3 credits

    Despite the warnings of scientists around the world and multiple reports from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the world is still on a path for extreme climate disruption.

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Year 3: Spring

One elective slot.

  • DEPD 3610Studio 6: Design for Protective Apparel and Gear6 credits

    Students will further their skills in responding critically and creatively to designing apparel and protective gear for specialized markets such as high-risk, and unpredictable contexts, e.g. search and rescue, law enforcement, health and safety, and military activities.

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  • DEPD 3640Special Topics: Design for a Changing Climate3 credits

    The climate is changing, and this affects the health of the planet and all life.

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  • DESN 3630Industry Experience3 credits

    Students will prepare for, research, initiate and complete a faculty-approved, industry-related 120-hour practicum relevant to design, producing evidence of the practical knowledge gained during their experience and its potential application.

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Year 4
Year 4: Fall

Two elective slots.

Year 4: Spring

One elective slot.

  • DEPD 4810Studio 8: Design for Capstone Production9 credits

    Students will produce a final prototype of their major, industry-related project in product design.

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  • DEPD 4820Design Research Knowledge Mobilization3 credits

    Based on the students' research project conducted in parallel and complementary to DEPD 4810, students will organize, process, and reflect on data they collected in DEPD 4810, and present their findings and conclusions in the form of infographics, artifacts, presentations, posters, videos, reels, reports, short articles and/or research papers.

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KPU current-linked Product Design programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit headerKPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit headerKPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit headerKPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
Elective choices
  • The published model shows one elective in Year 3 Spring, two in Year 4 Fall and one in Year 4 Spring. The programme describes electives in business, marketing or another field; no complete restriction list is established here.
Study locations
Published programme teaching location
The school’s Richmond campus page explicitly lists Product Design in the same purpose-built design building as the other named design programmes. Shared facilities include teaching studios, labs, a testing centre, gallery, and study/design areas. Individual course rooms are not assigned on this page.KPU Wilson School of Design: actual Richmond campus study facilities

Careers

Career examples

  • Product designer
  • Product developer
  • Product buyer
Scope and qualifications

University-published career examples and fields, including the currently linked October 2025 planner. Some roles require further study, certification or experience. These are not ranked outcomes.

Costs

Product Design · Tuition category 2.a.3

Published tuition

September 1,2026 through August 31,2027 · Registered native credit categories · CAD

Canadian students example · Choose your category

Tuition$224.19/credit

Course-category tuition; university and KSA fees are extra

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