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more on the way

Two more degrees approved for Red Deer Polytechnic

Jul 15, 2021 | 12:00 PM

Two more degrees have been approved for Red Deer Polytechnic.

RDP now can and will offer as of this fall, a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology.

Also approved are a University Arts Diploma and University Sciences Diploma.

“We are pleased to expand our offering of credentials at Red Deer Polytechnic to meet the demand of learners. These new programs signal another important benchmark in the evolution of our post-secondary institution,” says Kylie Thomas, Vice President Academic and Research. “As a unique polytechnic, we are committed to offering diverse academic pathways for students. Pathways including apprenticeship, micro-credentials, collaborative degrees, certificates, more of our own degrees, and diplomas.”

The new degrees will give Red Deer Polytechnic students strong foundational knowledge in a range of areas, including behaviour, biology, environment, cognition, neuroscience, and how those areas intersect.

“Offering of these psychology degrees at Red Deer Polytechnic provides learners the access to complete all four years of their program right here in central Alberta. The value of these opportunities cannot be understated,” says Dr. Jane MacNeil, Dean of the School of Arts and Culture. “Throughout their academic journey, students will also benefit from the ability to collaborate with regional partners through participation in experiential learning such as community service and applied research opportunities.”

The new two-year diploma programs also provide necessary skills, knowledge and experiences to students to get them prepared for the workforce.

Within the University Arts Diploma, learners may choose one of three academic themes: Global Perspectives; Science and Society; or Culture, Societies, and Gender.

University Sciences Diploma students will explore subject areas including Chemistry, Calculus, and Physics, with an initial specialization in Biological Sciences. This diploma prepares grads to work in biology-related fields, to enter a professional school after two years of undergraduate studies, and to transfer into the last two years of Red Deer Polytechnic’s Bachelor of Science Degree in Biological Sciences.

“Using a holistic interdisciplinary approach, learners will have the opportunity to advance their multi-faceted education as they engage in independent and collaborative scholarly inquiry throughout these diplomas,” says Dr. Nancy Brown, Dean of the Donald School of Business, Science, and Technology. “With a host of hands-on learning opportunities, students will also expand their competencies in solving problems and conducting research projects.”

RDP has also submitted proposals for a Bachelor of Business Administration, and Bachelor of Education. The institution is also developing a Bachelor of Art in Multidisciplinary Studies.

More information is at rdc.ab.ca/apply.