RDP Enhances Access for Indigenous Students
Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) has taken another step toward improving access to post-secondary education for Indigenous students by deferring the requirement of a tuition fee deposit. This initiative, a partnership between the Office of the Registrar and Indigenous Initiatives, expands upon last year’s policy of waiving the application fee for prospective Indigenous learners, making enrolment more accessible in RDP’s breadth of career-ready programs.
“We are proud to continue removing barriers for Indigenous learners so they can pursue an education at RDP,” says Lloyd Desjarlais, Dean, Indigenous Initiatives, Red Deer Polytechnic. “The post-secondary funding many Indigenous students rely on is often not approved before the tuition deposit deadline, which creates financial challenges.”
Previously, Indigenous students accepted into RDP’s credit programs had to pay a $400 tuition deposit to secure their place in a program and before registering for classes. For many Indigenous students, waiting on third-party funding made this step a barrier. Now, the tuition deposit is deferred until full tuition fees are paid, once funding has been secured.
“This new process will help more Indigenous students pursue rewarding careers through enhanced education, training and applied research opportunities at the Polytechnic,” says Dr. Trish Nuyten, Dean of Enrolment Management and Registrar, Red Deer Polytechnic. “RDP prepares students to become leaders in their careers and communities, contributing to Alberta’s productivity.”
This policy supports the goals in RDP’s Indigenous Reconcili-Action Plan 2023-28, which focuses on eliminating systemic barriers Indigenous learners face in accessing post-secondary education.
During the 2024–25 academic year, Red Deer Polytechnic welcomed 450 Indigenous students across its programs. The institution remains committed to fostering an inclusive environment by offering a variety of services, including counselling, health and well-being, financial aid, academic testing and tutoring to all students.
Indigenous learners also benefit from the services provided by the Indigenous Initiatives team, which offers culturally specific guidance, ensuring students feel connected and supported throughout their academic journey.
RDP also supports younger Indigenous learners through dual-credit and outreach programs that create pathways to academic success. One initiative, Red Hot Science, engages students from elementary to high school in hands-on STEM activities. A recent $162,000 Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) grant will expand hands-on dual-credit learning opportunities for Indigenous youth, blending cultural knowledge with academic credit.
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