Overview
Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) is a public, degree-granting polytechnic institute in Red Deer, Alberta, roughly midway between Calgary and Edmonton.
It was founded in 1964 as Red Deer College and operated for decades as a comprehensive community college offering certificates, diplomas and university-transfer arrangements. On May 5, 2021 the Government of Alberta announced the institution's conversion into a polytechnic, and it took the name Red Deer Polytechnic that June; the change came with its own legislated authority to grant bachelor's degrees, rather than only transfer credit toward one.
RDP is a standalone public institution: it is not federated with, and does not have its degrees conferred by, another university. Programming today spans four schools — the Donald School of Business, the School of Arts and Education, the School of Trades and Technology, and the School of Health & Wellness — delivering certificates, diplomas, apprenticeships and four-year bachelor's degrees across business, health sciences, creative and applied arts, sciences, and skilled trades.
RDP reports about 10,500 total learners across credit, non-credit and apprenticeship programming.
Some programs, such as its Bachelor of Science in Nursing, are delivered in collaboration with partner universities. RDP's earlier name, Red Deer College, is still widely used and continues to redirect from the institution's original rdc.ab.ca domain.
Location & Contact
Red Deer Polytechnic's campus location, postal address, and admissions contact channels are below.
Academic Details
A snapshot of Red Deer Polytechnic's academic profile — enrolment, staffing, and recognition.
Faculties & Divisions
The faculties at Red Deer Polytechnic, and what each one teaches, are listed below.
Donald School of Business (School) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
School of Arts and Education (School) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
School of Trades and Technology (School) 5 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Science
- Computing
- Culinary Arts
- Engineering Technologies
- Apprenticeships & Trades
School of Health & Wellness (School) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Programs Offered
Browse Red Deer Polytechnic's programmes by level, or filter by name.
56 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in Canada
Bachelor's Degree 9 programmes
Certificate 9 programmes
Diploma 20 programmes
Showing 10 of 20.
Postgraduate Certificate 1 programme
Trades - Apprenticeship 17 programmes
Showing 10 of 17.
How to apply to Red Deer Polytechnic
What applying to Red Deer Polytechnic involves, in five steps.
-
1
Find a programme that fits your goals
Red Deer Polytechnic's catalogue includes 56 programmes. Browse by level, identify candidates matching your prior qualifications, and note their entry requirements for the next step.
-
2
Confirm you meet the requirements
Entry requirements vary by programme and degree level. Verify academic minimums, language tests (if international), and any additional documents required for Red Deer Polytechnic's admissions process.
-
3
Assemble your application package
Typical documents include academic transcripts, identity proof (passport or national ID), language proficiency test scores, a personal statement or motivation letter, and recommendation letters. International applicants should account for translation and notarisation time.
-
4
Submit your application
Submit your completed application through Red Deer Polytechnic's official website at rdpolytech.ca. Most institutions use an online portal — register an account, complete the application form, and upload your prepared documents. Keep copies of all submissions and confirmation receipts.
-
5
Contact admissions and follow up
Follow up to confirm your application was received and is being processed. Admissions teams may request interviews or additional documents — respond promptly to keep your application active.
Frequently Asked Questions about Red Deer Polytechnic
Common questions about Red Deer Polytechnic — answers from its published profile.
When was Red Deer Polytechnic founded?
Red Deer Polytechnic was established in 1964 (approximately 62 years ago).
Where can I find Red Deer Polytechnic?
The institution is located in Red Deer, Canada.
Is Red Deer Polytechnic a public or private institution?
It is a public higher-education institution.
How many students does Red Deer Polytechnic have?
The institution has a student body of 10,500.
Where can I learn more about Red Deer Polytechnic?
Red Deer Polytechnic's official website is rdpolytech.ca.
Top-Ranked Universities in Canada
A quick benchmark: here are the top-ranked universities in Canada. Useful for understanding how Red Deer Polytechnic compares against the national reference points in higher education, and what alternatives exist if reach institutions are part of your strategy.
Faculties at nearby universities
Universities located near Red Deer Polytechnic are listed below.
Where Else to Study Civil Engineering & Construction
Civil Engineering & Construction is also taught at these universities in Canada.
Universities Compared with Red Deer Polytechnic
Universities of a similar scale and standing to Red Deer Polytechnic are listed below.
Studying in Canada: guides and resources
Spotted something outdated or missing?
Help us keep this page accurate — it takes about 30 seconds.
Save this university to your shortlist
Save universities and programs, follow countries, and get deadline reminders by email. Free, takes a few seconds.
