Visual Art Diploma at Red Deer Polytechnic - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-06-19

Program overview

Program Overview

The Visual Art Diploma program at Red Deer Polytechnic is designed to unleash your artistic potential and develop your skills in a nurturing environment. This comprehensive two-year program serves as a robust foundation in the visual arts, equipping students with essential skills and knowledge, regardless of their prior experience. Students will have the opportunity to learn from experienced, practicing artists in state-of-the-art studios, focusing on various mediums such as ceramics, sculpture, painting, and drawing. This diploma not only prepares students for a career in creative fields but also serves as a stepping stone towards a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree.

Program Structure

The Visual Art Diploma program spans a two-year period, structured to provide a well-rounded education in the visual arts. The program includes:

First Year: Focuses on developing foundational skills in drawing, painting, ceramics, sculpture, design, art history, and English.
Second Year: Emphasizes creative growth and visual maturity through intensive studio work.
Work-Integrated Learning: Numerous classes incorporate experiential learning opportunities, enhancing students' practical skills.

This program is offered on a full-time basis and is available on campus, allowing students to immerse themselves fully in their artistic education. Additionally, students can customize their learning experience by choosing electives, including two full-year studio courses.

Featured Experiences

State-of-the-art studios equipped for various artistic mediums.
Learning from experienced, practicing artists.
Work-integrated learning opportunities that prepare students for real-world artistic challenges.
Access to diverse experiential learning through the Career Education and Experience Development Centre.
Opportunities to transfer to various Canadian universities for further studies.

Career Options

Graduates of the Visual Art Diploma program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Studio Artist: Create original works of art for exhibitions or private commissions.
Illustrator: Produce images for books, magazines, and other media, often working closely with authors and publishers.
Exhibit Designer: Plan and design exhibitions for galleries, museums, and other venues, ensuring a cohesive visual experience.
Curator: Manage collections of artwork, organize exhibitions, and engage with the public to promote art appreciation.
Art Educator: Teach art techniques and history in schools or community programs, inspiring the next generation of artists.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit Red Deer Polytechnic official website

Last updated on 2025-06-19

Program overview

Academic Requirements

To apply for the Visual Art Diploma program at Red Deer Polytechnic, international students must meet specific Academic Requirements. It is essential to understand that eligibility for admission requires applicants to fulfill minimum academic standards. Qualified applicants who meet all minimum requirements will be offered admission on a first-come, first-served basis.

Academic Requirements:

Students applying to the Visual Art Diploma must have a minimum average of 50% in:
- ELA 30-1 or ELA 30-2, or equivalent
A minimum score of 250 on the Reading component, 250 on the Writing component, and 5 on the WritePlacer Test.

Additional Requirements:

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

Indigenous Learners:

The Visual Art Diploma program recognizes the need to facilitate access to post-secondary education for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous learners. To increase participation of Indigenous Peoples, the program has designated seven (7) seats for qualified applicants who are First Nations, Metis, or Inuit. Indigenous applicants must meet the Academic Requirements for the program as outlined in the Academic Calendar and qualify for a designated seat by:

Self-identifying as an Indigenous applicant on the Application for Admission.
Providing proof of Indigenous ancestry.

If you have questions or want help with the process, please connect with LOA Portal's advisors for any clarification and support.

English Language Proficiency Requirements

At Red Deer Polytechnic, we support a diverse student population worldwide. Note: Applicants whose first language is English and who declared this on their application are exempt from English Language Proficiency requirements.

Certain RDP programs have unique ELP requirements; ensure you review the program-specific requirements below. Applicants must also meet all other program Academic Requirements to be considered for admission into the program.

Applicants applying to the Academic Upgrading program are not required to demonstrate English Language Proficiency at the levels noted for credit programs. Placement assessments are used for admission to these programs.

Understanding RDP's English Language Proficiency Requirements:

Applicants whose first language is not English must provide ELP official documentation to the Office of the Registrar by email or regular mail after you have applied.
ELP tests must be no older than two years before your program start date.
The Office of the Registrar can review your “unofficial” or scanned documents to initially admit you to a program and provide a Letter of Acceptance. However, official documentation must be received before the deadline, or you will not be granted “clear” admission until this step has been completed.

Requirements by Program

Applicants must meet English Language Proficiency requirements for admission to credit programs.
- Note: RDP programs may have different or additional requirements.
Applicants must also meet all other program Academic Requirements, including the English course and minimum percentage grade.
All ELP tests must have been obtained within two years of the start date of the program.
Applicants to the Academic Upgrading program are not required to demonstrate English language proficiency at the levels noted for credit programs.

Ensure you review the program-specific requirements below.

Approved English Proficiency Tests:

IELTS Academic – International English Language Testing System: 6.5 with at least 5.5 on each band score
Duolingo English Test: 115-125
TOEFL – Test of English as a Foreign Language: 83 iBT or 557 PBT
CAEL – Canadian Academic English Language: 60 with at least 55 on each band score
MET: 61 with at least 58 on each band score
PTE: 59 with at least 56 on each band score
Oxford: 7 overall

Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!

Last updated on 2025-12-06

Program overview