Visual Art Diploma
Develop your skills, foster creativity and sharpen critical and creative thinking in our incredible art studios. Your diploma may be a stepping stone to a Bachelor of Fine Arts or a kickstart career in creative fields such as studio art, art education, design, architecture and more.
About the Visual Art Diploma
Inspire the world with your creativity through our comprehensive two-year Visual Art Diploma program. This curriculum serves as a robust foundation in the visual arts, equipping you with essential skills and knowledge, no matter your experience level.
In this program, you'll have the privilege of learning from experienced, practicing artists in state-of-the-art studios equipped for ceramics, sculpture, painting, drawing and design.
The first year focuses on developing skills in drawing, painting, ceramics, sculpture, design, art history and English. It offers a broad spectrum of visual experiences to nurture your artistic vocabulary and refine your skills in composition and technique.
The second year encourages creative growth and fosters visual maturity through intensive studio work.
Our program also opens doors to work toward earning a bachelor's degree. This diploma is your gateway to an exciting world of artistic possibilities.
Work-integrated Learning
Numerous classes within our program incorporate work-integrated learning, a vital component in shaping you into an artist leader. Discover more about the diverse experiential learning opportunities offered at Red Deer Polytechnic through the Career Education and Experience Development Centre.
Further Study
The Bachelor of Fine Art program offers a comprehensive study in visual art, whether you're considering a career in the field or seeking a well-rounded visual arts education. Additionally, transferring to various Canadian universities is a viable option.
Up to 20 course equivalents taken at RDP can be transferred to institutions like the University of Alberta, University of Calgary, University of Lethbridge, Alberta University of the Arts, NSCAD University and the Emily Carr University of Art + Design.
Credits earned in the Visual Art Diploma program are also generally transferable to other Canadian universities and art colleges. Specific transfer requirements may vary, so for detailed transfer policies, consult the Alberta Transfer Guide.
Related Careers
Studio Artist
Illustrator
Exhibit Designer
Curator
Photographer
Art Historian/Educator
Interior Designer
Art Therapist
Art Writer
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
Winter 2025 - Open
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Spring 2025 - Bachelor of Fine Arts (University Transfer only) - Open
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Fall 2025 - Open
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International Intakes
Winter 2025 - Closed
- Application window:
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- Registration start date:
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- First day of classes:
Spring 2025 - Bachelor of Fine Arts (University Transfer only) - Open
- Application window:
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- Registration start date:
- Fee payment deadline:
- First day of classes:
Fall 2025 - Open
- Application window:
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- Registration start date:
- Fee payment deadline:
- First day of classes:
Note
- International students must pay their tuition deposit to receive their letters of acceptance
- 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 Visual Art Diploma 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 Visual Art must have a minimum average of 50% in:
ELA 30-1 or ELA 30-2, or equivalent
OR
A minimum score of 250 on the Reading component, 250 on the Writing component and 5 on the WritePlacer Test.
Additional Requirements
English Language Proficiency
Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate English Language Proficiency (ELP) for admission to credit programs by providing official documentation to the Office of the Registrar at international.admissions@rdpolytech.ca or by regular mail, after an online application has been submitted. All ELP tests must have been obtained within two years of the date their program starts. ELP requirements are in addition to the other admission requirements noted above.
Prior Learning and Transfer
Students presenting courses from other recognized post-secondary institutions may be granted transfer credit towards the Visual Arts Diploma, visit Recognition of Prior Learning and Transfer Credit to learn more.
Indigenous Learners
Information for 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 five (5) 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.
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
Most courses in the Visual Art Diploma program will be completed by all students. You’ll be able to customize your learning experience by choosing electives in both years, including two full-year studio courses.
Program Courses
Graduation Requirements
Students must pass all courses (25 courses, 63 credits) as specified in the Program Content section of the Academic Calendar and achieve a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.00 for the program.
Continuing and Professional Education
Further your career by advancing your existing skills through flexible courses, micro-credentials and programs.