At VanWest College, we offer career training and co-op study in Kelowna, BC, combining academic learning with practical work experience. Our current Kelowna vocational offering includes the Hospitality Management Co-op Diploma, which features six months of academic study and six months of co-op, supported by our co-op services and career-focused events.
Current Co-op and Career Training Programs in Kelowna, BC
At VanWest College, we currently offer career-focused vocational training at our Kelowna location, including a Hospitality Management Co-op Diploma that combines academic study with practical co-op experience. You can also explore our Hospitality Management single-course certificate options available at our Kelowna location.
Hospitality Management Co-op Diploma
Our Hospitality Management Co-op Diploma at VanWest College Kelowna is a 14-month program that includes six months of academic study and six months of co-op experience. The program provides foundational knowledge and techniques related to hotel and restaurant operations, international marketing, food preparation and service, financial analysis, accounting, front and back office operations, and intercultural team dynamics.
During the academic portion of the program, you will study areas such as food and beverage operations, front office operations, housekeeping operations, hospitality supervision, security and loss prevention, and hospitality facilities management and design. Upon successful completion, our graduates receive the Hospitality Management Co-op Diploma, an AHLEI Rooms Division Specialization certificate, and an individual certificate from each course.
Details
- Program Length: 14 months (56 weeks)
- Academic Study: 6 months / 600 hours
- Co-op: 6 months / 600 hours
- 2026 Start Dates: August 31, 2026
- 2027 Start Dates: August 30, 2027
Why Choose Career Training at VanWest College Kelowna?
Our Kelowna location is located in the Okanagan Valley in British Columbia. The location is within walking distance of the main bus station and the lake and includes eight classrooms, a computer lab and a student lounge.
For vocational students, we highlight paid co-op opportunities, hiring fairs, information sessions and on-location workshops. Students can work full-time during co-op terms and part-time during study terms, while the vocational programs are designed to help students gain practical, job-ready skills.
How to Apply for a Co-op Diploma Program at VanWest in BC
Students interested in a VanWest vocational program can complete the college’s online Application Form. The form asks applicants to provide personal information and select their vocational college program and applicable start date.
Applicants are also asked whether they have met the English and academic admission requirements. If they have already met these requirements, VanWest’s application form asks for proof of English results, the applicant’s graduation credential, and other supporting documents.
Start Your Career Training Journey at VanWest Kelowna
At VanWest College, our co-op and career training options combine academic learning with practical work experience. If you’re considering a co-op program in Kelowna, BC, you can currently explore our Hospitality Management Co-op Diploma, which includes both academic study and a co-op component. Our Kelowna location also offers vocational support, including hiring fairs, information sessions, and on-location workshops. If you want to explore other VanWest co-op programs, you can compare our current Vancouver and Kelowna options before reviewing program details and completing our application form.
FAQ
We currently offer the Hospitality Management Co-op Diploma at our Kelowna location. The program is 14 months long and includes six months of academic study and six months of co-op.
At VanWest College, we define a co-op as a program that combines academic studies with practical work experience. Students complete productive work with our partner employers, receive compensation, and we monitor their workplace progress.
Yes. Our vocational offerings include a guaranteed paid co-op component, meaning you will receive compensation for the work you perform during your co-op term.
Our program covers essential topics, including hotel and restaurant operations, international marketing, food preparation and service, financial analysis, accounting, front- and back-office operations, and intercultural team dynamics.
Yes, we do. While our Hospitality Management Co-op Diploma is available in Kelowna, we also offer other co-op programs at our Vancouver location, including Supply Chain Management, Commerce and Marketing, Business Management, and Professional Customer Service.
You can apply by completing our online Application Form. Simply enter your personal details, select your preferred vocational program and start date, and provide the necessary proof of your English results and academic credentials.