Employment and Community Studies (EACS) Program
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Employment and Community Studies (EACS) Program
The EACS Program is designed for students with diverse learning needs that hinder educational success. The courses and learning experiences in our program will prepare students for lifelong learning, employment, and community engagement opportunities. Students will participate in hands-on and work-integrated learning opportunities.
Courses
- EACS 0010 Employability Skills
- EACS 0020 Career Exploration
- EACS 0021 Work Experience
- EACS 0022 Introduction to Disability Rights
- EACS 0023 Social Justice in Action
Within each of these courses, we focus on employability, social justice, communication, advocacy, and technology.
Program Details
Since 1981, KPU has offered an Accessible Education and Training (AET) program focused on employability skill development and career exploration. The former program was called Access Program for People with Disabilities. Every year, over 60 APPD students have taken either – Job Preparation, Work Exploration, or Vocational Skills Training.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, this hands-on experiential program moved to operate online. This change made it possible to redesign how ASE was offered. EACS is the new program, still with a focus on employability skill development but with a broader range of courses that focus on lifelong learning and community engagement as well.
We now offer both on-campus courses at three of our KPU campuses: Langley, Richmond, and Surrey, and some online courses.
Admission Requirements
- Attend an EACS Program Information Session (REQUIRED)
- Request a chat with an EACS instructor
- OR
- Apply online to KPU for the EACS Program
- Attend a Program Interview with an EACS instructor
- Receive an Offer of Admission into the EACS program by email
- Apply for the Adult Upgrading Grant (AUG)
- OR
- Pay your Confirmation Deposit
- Receive assistance in using your Online Self-Service portal and setting up your student email account
- Register for your classes online - assistance is available
Tuition Fees
- If you wish to take 15 credits to achieve a Citation (Certificate) in the Employment & Community Studies (EACS) Program, tuition fees are approximately $2,800.
- Base Tuition fees for a 3-credit course are approximately $560, and a 6-credit course is approximately $1,120.
- Additional Student fees are also charged. See KPU's Tuition Estimator link.
Funding
Eligible students have access to the Adult Upgrading Grant to cover program fees. The Student Awards and Financial Services Department and the Access Programs Department will assist in the student's application.
Career Outcomes
Through the EACS program, students will gain knowledge that will strengthen their abilities and possibilities for lifelong learning, employment, and community engagement in, for example:
- Community Service
- Retail and Customer Service
- Personal Service
- Manufacturing and Warehouse Service
- Restaurant and Food Service
- Business and Administration
- Entrepreneurship
- Volunteerism
- Further training and coursework
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can attend the EACS program?
EACS is open for students with diverse learning needs that hinder educational success, and who meet the admission requirements for this program.
Can I attend part-time?
Yes, the EACS courses can be taken independently.
How many students does EACS take a semester?
Each class may have up to 12 students, except the EACS 0021 Work Experience course, which accepts up to 16 students per section. The number of classes will vary in each semester, both online or on campus.
What are the entrance requirements for EACS?
Attend an EACS Program Information Session (in-person or online)
Interview with one of our program instructors to determine:
- Fit for the academic program
- Satisfactory English ability as assessed according to departmental guidelines
What are the departmental guidelines?
- Able to travel in community independently
- Able to navigate the university campus independently
- Able to complete assignments and activities
- Able to use email and course learning platforms (e.g., Moodle, Pebble Pad, Zoom)
- Able to understand and respond to directions and questions
What is the cost for the program?
- If you wish to take 15 credits to achieve a Citation (Certificate) in the Employment & Community Studies (EACS) Program, tuition fees are approximately $2,800.
- Base Tuition fees for a 3-credit course are approximately $560, and a 6-credit course is approximately $1,120.
- Additional Student fees are also charged. See KPU's Tuition Estimator link.
What funding is available for this program?
Eligible students have access to the Adult Upgrading Grant to cover program fees. The Student Awards and Financial Services Department and the Access Programs Department will assist in the student's application.
How do I apply?
Step 1 - Attend an EACS Information Session
Step 2 - Apply to KPU for the Employment & Community Studies Program - you will receive instructions once you have attended an EACS Information Session
Step 3 - Once you have applied, you will receive an invitation to attend an interview with one of our EACS instructors - it more like a conversation to check that this program is a good fit for the student.
Step 4 - If accepted, then the Admissions Department will contact you to let you know of a deadline date to either:
- Pay a $500 Confirmation Deposit
- OR
- Apply for the Adult Upgrading Grant to cover all your tuition fees - we will be sending you instructions on how to do either of these tasks
Step 5 - Students will receive an email from the Office of the Registrar informing when they can register for their classes
What are the employment opportunities after completing the EACS program?
Through this program, students will gain knowledge that will strengthen their employability skills. They may have the opportunity to complete a work experience in one or two of these areas:
- Community Service
- Retail and Customer Service
- Personal Service – ex. Child care
- Manufacturing and Warehouse Service
- Restaurant and Food Service
- Business and Administration
- Entrepreneurship
- Landscaping and Gardening
If I need more information, whom do I contact?
If you have further questions following attending one of our EACS Information Sessions, please call either our Access Programs Department Assistant, Malvis Okika at , or the Future Students Office at , or connect directly with the Student Recruitment Coordinator, Brooks Lewis at ,
How do I register for my courses?
Successful applicants will receive an email from KPU letting them know when they can register for their courses. The Access Programs Department will assist with registration if needed. Or you can go to the KPU.ca website and select the Registration Guide.
Can I withdraw from my program?
KPU has a policy and procedure for anyone wishing to withdraw from their program.
Do I need textbooks?
Our Employment & Community Studies (EACS) Program seeks to reduce any financial barriers that our students may face, and so no, our EACS courses do not require textbooks.
Program Outline
Outline:
The EACS program offers five courses:
- EACS 0010 Employability Skills: This course focuses on developing the skills needed to be successful in the workplace, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
- EACS 0020 Career Exploration: This course helps students explore different career options and develop a career plan.
- EACS 0021 Work Experience: This course provides students with the opportunity to gain hands-on work experience in a field of their interest.
- EACS 0022 Introduction to Disability Rights: This course provides students with an understanding of their rights as individuals with disabilities.
- EACS 0023 Social Justice in Action: This course helps students develop the skills and knowledge needed to be advocates for social justice. Each course focuses on employability, social justice, communication, advocacy, and technology. ## Teaching: The EACS program is taught by instructors who are experienced in working with students with diverse learning needs. The program uses a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, discussions, group work, and hands-on activities. ## Careers: The EACS program can help students prepare for a variety of careers in different fields, such as:
- Community Service
- Retail and Customer Service
- Personal Service
- Manufacturing and Warehouse Service
- Restaurant and Food Service
- Business and Administration
- Entrepreneurship
- Volunteerism
- Further training and coursework ## Other:
- The EACS program is open to students with diverse learning needs that hinder educational success.
- The program can be taken part-time.
- The program is classified as "upgrading courses", so students may be eligible for the Adult Upgrading Grant (AUG) which will cover all your tuition fees.
- The program is offered both online and on campus.
- Students will need to attend an information session before applying to the program.
- Students will need to be able to travel in the community independently, navigate the university campus independently, complete assignments and activities, use email and course learning platforms, and understand and respond to directions and questions. ## Important Dates:
- New information sessions will be available soon.
- Fall 2024 Applications are now being accepted. ## Contact Information:
- Access Programs Department Assistant, Malvis Okika at 604-599-3095 or apd@kpu.ca
- Future Students Office at 604-599-3030
- Student Recruitment Coordinator, Brooks Lewis at 604-599-3101 or brooks.lewis@kpu.ca
Kwantlen Polytechnic University
Overview:
Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) is a public polytechnic university located in British Columbia, Canada. It offers over 140 programs across five campuses, focusing on providing students with the skills they need for their chosen careers. KPU emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world experience through co-ops, practicums, and paid internships.
Services Offered:
KPU provides a range of services to students, including:
Academic Support:
Counseling, tutoring, and other resources to help students succeed in their studies.Financial Aid:
Information and assistance with financial aid options.International Student Support:
Dedicated services for international students, including admissions, visa guidance, and cultural adjustment support.Indigenous Student Services:
A welcoming and inclusive environment for Indigenous students, with dedicated resources and support.Mature Student Support:
Flexible learning options and resources tailored to the needs of mature students.Alumni Services:
Benefits and opportunities for KPU graduates, including networking events and career support.Key Reasons to Study There:
Career-Focused Programs:
KPU offers a wide range of programs designed to prepare students for specific careers.Hands-On Learning:
Emphasis on practical experience through co-ops, practicums, and internships.Industry Connections:
Strong relationships with industry partners, providing students with valuable networking opportunities.Flexible Learning Options:
Various campus locations and flexible learning modes to accommodate different schedules and lifestyles.Supportive Environment:
Dedicated support services for students from diverse backgrounds.Academic Programs:
KPU offers over 140 programs across seven faculties, including:
Faculty of Arts:
Programs in areas such as communication, creative writing, and visual arts.Faculty of Business:
Programs in areas such as accounting, marketing, and management.Faculty of Education:
Programs in areas such as early childhood education and teacher education.Faculty of Health:
Programs in areas such as nursing, health sciences, and social work.Faculty of Science and Technology:
Programs in areas such as engineering, computer science, and environmental science.Faculty of Trades and Technology:
Programs in areas such as carpentry, welding, and automotive technology.Wilson School of Design:
Programs in areas such as fashion design, graphic design, and interior design.Other:
KPU hosts various university events and provides regular updates through its university news section.
Entry Requirements:
Attendance at an EACS Information Session:
This is the essential first step for prospective students, as well as anyone else who will be supporting their application. These sessions can be attended virtually or in person. Details on upcoming sessions are available on the "Attend Info Session" link provided.
Interview with an EACS Instructor:
During this interview, the instructor will assess the student's:
- Fit for the academic program
- English ability, as assessed according to departmental guidelines
- Ability to travel independently in the community
- Ability to navigate the university campus independently
- Ability to complete assignments and activities
- Ability to use email and course learning platforms like Moodle, Pebble Pad, and Zoom
- Ability to understand and respond to directions and questions
Additional Requirements:
- Students should be able to travel independently in the community.
- Students should be able to navigate the university campus independently.
- Students should be able to complete assignments and activities.
- Students should be able to use email and course learning platforms such as Moodle, Pebble Pad, and Zoom.
- Students should be able to understand and respond to directions and questions.
Optional Requirements:
- Completing the Adult Upgrading Grant (AUG) application. This grant will cover the program's tuition fees. ## Language Proficiency Requirements:
English Ability:
While the program description does not explicitly state the required level of English proficiency, it emphasizes that English ability will be assessed during the interview with the EACS instructor. This suggests that sufficient English language skills are necessary for understanding lectures, discussions, and program materials.
Additional Information:
- The program description mentions that students are not required to purchase textbooks.
- Students who are unsure about their eligibility are encouraged to reach out to the Access Programs Department at apd@kpu.ca or 604-599-3095.
