RDP expands opportunities for learners with new micro-credentials

Red Deer Polytechnic has received approval to offer five new micro-credentials in a variety of in-demand sectors. 

Over the next two years, Red Deer Polytechnic’s Extended Education will offer the following micro-credential programs: Complex Care and Patient Navigator, Classroom Support Aide, Statistical Consultant, Photovoltaic Systems: Design and Install, and Substance and Addictions Support Worker. 

“We are excited to expand our breadth of programming in the micro-credential space and are appreciative of the support from the Ministry of Advanced Education to develop and launch new micro-credentials at Red Deer Polytechnic,” says Kylie Thomas, Vice President Academic and Provost. “These micro-credentials increase opportunities for learners and the workforce to evolve their skills in their current profession or to prepare them to embark on a new career path. Micro-credentials are a means to upskill and reskill for today’s labour market.”

Two micro-credentials will be launched in 2022/2023:

• Complex Care and Patient Navigator – this unique program in Alberta will provide individuals with the skills and knowledge to assist patients and their families in understanding the interconnected healthcare systems. In this emerging field, Patient Navigators support the effective, efficient and equitable use of health care resources using a patient-focused framework. 
• Classroom Support Aide – this four-month micro-credential prepares individuals to collaborate with educators and to help support learners in the classroom with literacy and numeracy skills, and additional needs. This micro-credential provides a pathway into Red Deer Polytechnic’s Educational Assistant Certificate Program. 

Three micro-credential programs will be launched in 2023/2024:

• Statistical Consultant – prepares learners to understand and interpret data, and effectively communicate about it in a variety of sectors.
• Photovoltaic Systems: Design and Install – this micro-credential is designed to equip journeyperson electricians and electrical engineers with the operating theory and safety requirements to design, install and maintain effective solar-generation systems.
• Substance and Addictions Support Worker – provides individuals with the competencies to recognize symptoms in at-risk individuals, to provide support and to assist with accessing appropriate care for those with addictions.

“The five new Red Deer Polytechnic micro-credentials incorporate the pillars contained within the Government of Alberta’s Recovery Plan,” adds Thomas. “These micro-credentials will help to address labour market demands, to strengthen the province’s workforce, and to contribute to the economic growth of the province in diverse ways.” 

Over the next several weeks, more information about the five micro-credentials will be shared on Red Deer Polytechnic Extended Education’s webpage, including program details and registration.