Bachelor of Applied Arts in Film Production
About the Bachelor of Applied Arts in Film Production
Grounded in the core principles of communication, collaboration, storytelling, business & entrepreneurial skills, our program will guide you through the practical application of storytelling and film production to thrive on film sets, in the editing suite and within production companies.
Our courses provide opportunities for hands-on studio practice with state-of-the-art equipment, fostering close collaboration with artists from creative arts programs at RDP and instruction from film industry experts. By the time you’re done, you'll be creating content tailored for screens of all sizes!
Work-integrated Learning
In the fourth year of this program, you'll engage in an Applied Practicum, offering you the chance to work in a relevant industry segment or pursue a personal film project in-studio at RDP. During this phase, you will develop individual and collaborative film projects while pursuing placements as a young professional in the film industry.
"The film program at Red Deer Polytechnic has taught me so much throughout my past four years as a student. I have developed skills, both technical and creative, which have allowed me to form industry connections, as well as create award-winning productions. Throughout my time in the program, I have been given the opportunity to learn and grow through trial and error, and through receiving constructive criticism from my instructors and peers. "
"This program gave me the opportunity to build my skill set and network, leading to a very successful and fulfilling career in the Film and TV industry. It is thanks to my instructors' feedback and support that I am in a place to give back to the current film students, continuing what alum did for me when I was a student by offering workshops and mentorship opportunities. "
Related Careers
Film/Theatre/Television Actor
Scriptwriter
Producer
Director
Cinematographer
Camera Operator
Set/Lighting Designer
Wardrobe
Sound Recordist/Engineer
Picture/Sound Editor
Production Manager
Script Supervisor
Carpenter/Grip
Lighting Technician/Gaffer
Special Effects Technician
Set Decorator/Scenic Painter
Property Master
Technical Director
Location Manager
Meet the Faculty
At Red Deer Polytechnic we are proud of our faculty members and staff who are experts in their disciplines and subject areas.
Domestic Intakes
Fall 2025 - Open
- Application window:
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- Registration start date:
- Fee payment deadline:
- First day of classes:
International Intakes
Fall 2025 - Closed
- Application window:
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- Registration start date:
- Fee payment deadline:
- First day of classes:
Note:
- Program CIP code: 50.0101 View Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility.
- International students must pay their tuition deposit to receive their letters of acceptance
- This program requires students to obtain a Co-op Work permit
- Important dates may change
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements for specific programs will often refer to Alberta Grade 12 course groups. Visit the Admission Requirements page for detailed group descriptions.
If you are an international student or have completed your high school education outside of Alberta, please refer to our International Course Equivalencies page for information on how your coursework may align with our admission requirements.
Eligibility for admission to the Bachelor of Applied Arts in Film Production program at Red Deer Polytechnic requires applicants to meet minimum academic requirements. Qualified applicants who meet all minimum requirements will be offered admission on a first-come, first-served basis.
Academic Requirements
Students applying to Film Production must have a minimum of 60% in:
- ELA 30-1, or higher, or equivalent
And a minimum of 50% in an additional Group A, B, or C course. A 30-level Fine Arts course is recommended.
- Group A • Aboriginal Studies 30 • English Language Arts (ELA) 30-1 • Social Studies 30-1 • Language 30 or 35 (other than English)
- Group B • Art 30 • Art 31 • Band 35 • Choir 35 • Dance 35 • Drama 30 • Music 35 • Performing Arts 35A
- Note: Other 5-credit Fine Arts and/or Advanced Level CTS courses may be considered.
- Group C • Biology 30 • Chemistry 30 • Mathematics 30-1 or 30-2 • Mathematics 31 • Physics 30 • Science 30 • Five credits of Advanced Level Computer Science (CSE)
- Group D • Five credits of coursework at the 30, 33 or 35 level • Two 3-credit subjects at the 30 level (excluding Special Projects)
- Note: Some courses can be considered Group D subjects if a higher level of the same subject has not fulfilled a Group A, B or C admission requirement (i.e., French Language Arts 30-2, Social Studies 30-2, Mathematics 30 Applied)
Additional Requirements
Interview
The interview requirement has been WAIVED for Fall 2025.
To be accepted into the Film Production program, students must have a successful interview.
NOTE: The interview requirement has been WAIVED for Fall 2025.
English Language Proficiency
Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate English language proficiency in addition to the program admission requirements.
Prior Learning and Transfer
Students presenting Diplomas from other recognized post-secondary institutions may be granted transfer credit towards the Bachelor of Applied Arts in Film Production, visit our Recognition of Prior Learning and Transfer Credit page to learn more.
Indigenous Learners
Information for Indigenous Learners
The Bachelor of Applied Arts in Film Production 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 two (2) seats for qualified applicants who are First Nations, Metis, or Inuit. After June 1 for the Fall term and October 1 for the Winter term unallocated seats will be released to qualified applicants on the waitlist if one exists for the program.
Indigenous applicants must meet the admission 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
Proof of Indigenous ancestry (one of the following):
- Certified copy of a Status or Treaty card, Metis membership card, Nunavut Trust Certificate card, roll number or any other proof accepted by Inuit communities.
- Proof that an ancestor’s name has been entered in the Indian Register according to the Indian Act, band list of an individual band, or the Inuit roll.
- Written confirmation of Indigenous ancestry from Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada.
- Statutory Declaration by an applicant attesting to Aboriginal ancestry with supporting documentation.
Other forms of proof may also be considered at the discretion of the Registrar.
If you have questions or want help with the process, please connect with Indigenous Student Services.
Program Cost
These costs are an estimate of tuition based on the recommended course load per year, additional fees apply.
These costs are an estimate of tuition based on the recommended course load per year, additional fees apply.
Financial Aid Options
Student life can be very expensive, and few individuals have enough money to pay up-front for their post-secondary education.
Program Content
In the Bachelor of Applied Arts in Film Production program, students must complete a core curriculum of Film Production courses, which includes classes in Acting, Directing, Production, Storytelling, History and various other aspects of Film Production.
During the initial three years, you have the freedom to tailor your learning experience by selecting a combination of both Creative Arts and non-Creative Arts electives.
In the fourth and final year, the program's emphasis shifts to the Applied Practicum, where you will focus on building a portfolio within your chosen area of specialization. These specializations encompass a broad spectrum, ranging from directing and cinematography to screenwriting, film editing and sound design.
Graduation Requirements
Students must pass all courses required for the degree with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0.
Continuing and Professional Education
Further your career by advancing your existing skills through flexible courses, micro-credentials and programs.