As advanced credentials play an increasingly important role in economic mobility across Canada, Adler University and Capilano University (CapU) are launching a graduate pathway designed to expand access to master’s degree-level education and support long-term career advancement.
Through a new five-year partnership agreement, the universities have established an expedited admission process for eligible CapU bachelor’s degree graduates entering select Adler graduate programs. The initiative removes common application barriers, including fees and supplemental materials, while maintaining academic standards and momentum for students ready to advance their education. Upon enrolling at Adler, students will receive a one-time $2,000 scholarship, which will be applied to their tuition and fees.
“Graduate education serves a distinct and necessary function within Canada’s postsecondary ecosystem, particularly in preparing scholars and practitioners to lead in complex social, organizational, and health systems,” said Lisa Coleman, president of Adler University. “Our partnership with Capilano will strengthen that leadership pipeline by creating intentional pathways that support students’ transition from undergraduate study to graduate education in British Columbia, reinforcing Adler’s role as a global university advancing well-being across borders.”
National data indicate that relatively few Canadians pursue graduate degrees, yet those who do experience clear economic benefits. Only about one in eight Canadians holds a master’s or doctoral degree, while individuals with a master’s degree earn substantially more than the national average income. The gap between undergraduate and graduate earnings underscores the increasing importance of advanced education as work becomes more specialized, interdisciplinary, and leadership-driven.
“This partnership reflects our vision for a future where learners have clear, accessible pathways to achieve their goals,” said Tracy Penny Light, Ph.D., vice-president, academic and provost at CapU. “We are committed to fostering student success and strengthening connections that prepare graduates to lead with purpose. By working collaboratively with Adler University, we are creating opportunities that empower learners to advance their education, contribute to innovation, and make a meaningful impact in their communities.”
Students from CapU with degrees in psychology, communication studies, business administration, kinesiology, design, music therapy, legal studies, environmental studies, and writing and literature are eligible to take advantage of the pathway. Graduates of these programs who meet minimum GPA requirements may pursue expedited admission to the following Adler University graduate programs offered in Vancouver:
- Master of Arts in Industrial and Organizational Psychology.
- Master of Industrial and Organizational Psychology.
- Master of Psychology in Health and Wellness.
Expedited admission is also available to select American-based online graduate programs:
- Master of Arts in Industrial and Organizational Psychology.
- Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership.
- Master of Arts in Psychology.
Beyond admissions, the agreement establishes a framework for continued collaboration between the institutions. Planned activities include campus visits, information sessions, and opportunities for engagement with faculty and academic leadership. Adler and CapU will also explore additional collaboration in applied learning, research, and community-based initiatives that support professional preparation and service across British Columbia.
About Capilano University
Capilano University offers students a remarkable space to thrive with industry-leading instructors, small classes and more than 100 programs across five distinctive faculties. Serving British Columbia’s Sea-to-Sky region with locations in North Vancouver, Squamish and the Sunshine Coast, CapU is a unique space where students are encouraged to make their mark, in and out of the classroom. Capilano University is named after Chief Joe Capilano (1854–1910), an important leader of the Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) Nation of the Coast Salish Peoples. We respectfully acknowledge that our campuses are located on the unceded territories of the səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh), shíshálh (Sechelt), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and xʷməθkʷəỷəm (Musqueam) Nations.