Red Deer Polytechnic

Red Deer Polytechnic is central Alberta’s largest post-secondary institution, serving more than 10,000 credit, non-credit and apprenticeship students. Since becoming a polytechnic institute in 2021, RDP has fundamentally shifted its purpose, elevated its impact and become focused on advancing Alberta’s economic and social priorities.

RDP stands apart from other polytechnics with its program breadth; Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences, and Education programs are delivered alongside Skilled Trades, Sciences, Health Sciences, Engineering Technology and Business. RDP offers credentials including degrees, diplomas, certificates, micro-credentials and dual credit for youth.

Ranked as one of Canada’s Top 50 Research Colleges in 2022, and first in the country in annual growth in research income, RDP conducts world-class applied research within innovation ecosystems such as the Centre for Innovation in Manufacturing-Technology Access Centre and Energy Innovation Centre. RDP also houses a new social innovation ecosystem, the Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre.

A recognized leader in sustainability, RDP has received several national and international awards for initiatives in emissions reduction, green energy generation and waste reduction.

RDP acknowledges the Indigenous history of the land upon which we teach and learn, offering an inclusive environment for all. RDP aims to be a polytechnic that is provincially focused, nationally recognized, and internationally engaged.

Fast Facts

• Each year, RDP contributes over $327 million to the central Alberta economy and over $601 million to the provincial economy.
• Our students love our small class sizes, with most classes having 40 students or less.
• 97% of our graduates, as well as university transfer and academic preparation students, are satisfied with the quality of their education experience.
• RDP’s 15 Athletics teams made national ACAC and CCAA history for both academic and athletic excellence in 2013-2014 with the best season of any College in Canada.