Two Visual Art students drawing faces

Visual Art Diploma

Develop your skills, foster creativity and sharpen critical and creative thinking in our incredible art studios. Your diploma may be a steppingstone to a Bachelor of Fine Arts or a career in creative fields such as studio art, art education, design, architecture and more. Unleash your artistic potential.
Domestic Status:
Open
International Status:
Open
Next Start date:
Diploma
2 Years
Accepting International Students
Full-Time On Campus

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 experience necessary. 

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 pursue higher education, enabling you to continue your academic journey at universities and work toward earning a bachelor's degree. This diploma is your gateway to an exciting world of artistic possibilities. See Further Study for more information.  

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. 

Intakes

Fall (Domestic) - Start Date: Sep 04, 2024
  • Application window:
    -
  • Registration start date:
  • Fee payment deadline:
  • First day of classes:
Spring (Domestic) - Start Date: May 01, 2025
  • Application window:
    -
  • Registration start date:
  • Fee payment deadline:
  • First day of classes:
Fall (International) - Start Date: Sep 04, 2024
  • Application window:
    -
  • Registration start date:
  • Fee payment deadline:
  • First day of classes:
Spring (International) - Start Date: May 01, 2025
  • Application window:
    -
  • Registration start date:
  • Fee payment deadline:
  • First day of classes:

NOTES:  

  • International students have to 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.   

International Students: 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 who declare English as first language are exempt from ELP requirements. 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 our Recognition of Prior Learning and Transfer Credit page to learn more.   

Program Cost

Students from Canada
Year 1
$11,430.00
Year 2
$11,615.00

These costs are an estimate of tuition and fees based on the recommended course load per year.       

NOTE: Additional fees apply. View here for a detailed, estimated breakdown of tuition, non-instructional mandatory fees, health and dental plan costs, and estimated textbooks and supplies costs.    

International Students
Year 1
$28,475.00
Year 2
$29,035.00

These costs are an estimate of tuition and fees based on the recommended course load per year.      

NOTE: Additional fees apply. View here for a detailed, estimated breakdown of tuition, non-instructional mandatory fees, health and dental plan costs, and estimated textbooks and supplies costs.    

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.