Professional Development Guide
Âba Wathtech Aaniin Oki Je aa haanché Edláneťe Tânsi Háu Tawnshi Greetings
Red Deer Polytechnic acknowledges that we learn and work on Treaty 7, Treaty 6 and Métis ancestral lands, the gathering place of many Indigenous Peoples. This is where we will strive to honour and transform our relationships with one another.
Welcome to Continuing Education and Corporate Training at Red Deer Polytechnic
Invest in your personal growth through lifelong learning! Let Red Deer Polytechnic’s Continuing Education and Corporate Training (CECT) department support your aspirations and ambitions and help you prepare for a better future as you develop new skills and pursue your passions. We are committed to serving our learners and communities by delivering certificate programs, professional development courses, community programming and customized corporate training that enhances individual and business success.
We remain committed to building and strengthening relationships with communities across Alberta as we collectively develop and solidify partnerships, educational opportunities or other community-based initiatives. From all of us in Continuing Education and Corporate Training, we look forward to continuing to provide relevant, high-quality and flexible learning opportunities to help you gain the knowledge and competencies you need to reach your goals and take your career to the next level.
Thank you for choosing to pursue learning opportunities through Red Deer Polytechnic’s Continuing Education and Corporate Training Department.
“Glenn Anthony Fetalvero
Network Administration
Professional Diploma Student, 2024
I can distill my experience at Red Deer Polytechnic in two words: industry-relevant. I love how The Network Administration Professional Diploma program has practical lab simulations in addition to the actual lectures. The hands-on approach helped me better understand key concepts and pass industry certifications. The course content is also aligned with current market needs, which allowed me to secure an IT job while still a student.
Continuing and Professional Education
Our continuing and professional education courses and programs offer a robust range of opportunities to help you start a new career or advance your skills in your current role. One pathway for you to enhance your resume and career opportunities is by enrolling in one of our immersive, short-term career development programs.
With flexible delivery models for these non-credit diploma, certificate and micro-credentials programs, you can effectively advance your lifelong learning goals while balancing competing life priorities. Our learning experiences are innovative, industry-relevant and connected to high-demand sectors.
We invite you to view our detailed program information on page 10.
These programs, and more, can be customized and delivered to teams of all sizes, as well.
Learn more about our customized and group training on page 16.
Our learning experiences are innovative, industryrelevant and connected to high-demand sectors.
Faculty Spotlight
Meet Tammy Pollock
Tammy teaches the Life and Employment Skills for Independence (LESI) diploma program to adults with developmental disabilities. She holds a Bachelor of Education Degree with professional development in the curriculum and development field. Not only does Tammy instruct the LESI program, but she was instrumental in developing it and has been teaching it since its inception three years ago.
Tammy finds instructing the LESI program a very rewarding field because she can often see the immediate effect on her students’ lives as they journey to independence. Whether it is seeing them challenge obstacles previously perceived as insurmountable, advocate for themselves for the first time as adults, or successfully navigate new work environments, she finds it very gratifying to have a front-row seat on this journey.
To learn more about LESI, visit rdpolytech.ca/LESI
Our instructors are experienced educators and subject matter experts.
Our Programs
Business
Take your business skills to the next level. Explore these options today:
PROGRAMS
• Accounting Technician Certificate
• Bookkeeping Basics Certificate
• Business Communication Certificate
• Digital Marketing Certificate
• Statistical Consultant Micro-credential
Creative Arts
Spark your creativity in our summer programs and courses:
PROGRAMS
• Series Summer Art Workshops
• Series Visual Arts Camp for Teens
Computer and Information Technologies
Advance your career by growing your digital literacy. Discover our non-credit computer and information technology certificate and diploma courses:
PROGRAMS
• Computer Skills for the Office Certificate
• Cybersecurity Certificate
• Network Administration Diploma
• Software Development Diploma
Engineering Technologies and Trades
As technology advances, you should, too. Browse course options that will enable you to keep up-to-date:
PROGRAMS
• Power Engineering Fourth Class Part A & Part B
• Residential Heating & Cooling Troubleshooting Certificate
• Solar Photovoltaic Systems
Health and Community Wellness
Whether you are just entering the health and wellness field or are looking to enhance your current credentials, these programs will help jumpstart your career:
PROGRAMS
• Activity Coordinator Certificate in Collaboration with ASCHA
• Community Housing Certificate in Collaboration with ASCHA
• Complex Care & Patient Navigator Micro-credential
• Health Care Aide Certificate
• Indigenous Care Foundations Micro-credential
• Medical Office Assistant Certificate
• Trauma-Informed Workforce Micro-credential
• Unit Clerk Extension Certificate
Personal Development and Life Skills
These programs and courses are designed to help learners gain confidence in the early stages of their careers:
PROGRAMS
• Career-Building Courses
• Life & Employment Skills for Independence (LESI) Certificate
Leadership
These preparatory and certificate programs will equip you to lead with confidence and skill.
PROGRAMS
• Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)® Exam Preparation Training
• Creativity & Innovation Certificate
• Introduction to Management
• Leadership for Women in Business Certificate
• Lean Six Sigma
• Management Skills for Supervisors Certificate
• Managing Change and Resolving Conflict
• Project Management Professional (PMP)® Exam
• Recreation Facility Management in Collaboration with AARFP Certificate
• Site Manager Certificate in Collaboration with ASCHA
In 2023/2024, 4,532 learners participated in CECT programming.
2,511 DOMESTIC
63 INDIGENOUS
1,958 INTERNATIONAL both here and abroad
Program Calendar
Program information and cost are subject to change after printing. Please refer to rdpolytech.ca/CECT for approved changes. Some programs are subject to GST.
FT – Full-time | PT – Part-time | A – Asynchronous (online anytime) | OC – On Campus (M for Main & D for Downtown) | OL – Online | B – Blended (mix of online & in-person instruction) | I – Immersive Workplace Learning (studies take place in conjunction with workplace experience)
BUSINESS
ACCOUNTING TECHNICIAN
Professional Certificate - The Accounting Technician Certificate prepares students to work in various organizations as an Accounting Technician, Accounting Assistant, Professional Bookkeeper or Data Support Technician. $4999 Fast track
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BOOKKEEPING BASICS
Professional Certificate - This program will enhance your knowledge of fundamental accounting concepts, processes and manual bookkeeping systems. Completing this program will improve your basic bookkeeping skills and help you become more confident in managing your personal or professional finances. *Courses can be taken individually.
BUSINESS COMMUNICATION
249 Hours May 5, 2025 Fall 2025 Must have a laptop and a stable wifi connection.
$1995 PT | OL 80 Hours Feb 4, 2025 Fall 2025
Online learners will require a personal computer (PC) or laptop with a reliable wifi connection to access coursework.
Certificate of Completion - The five-course Business Communication Certificate program will provide you with the tools to communicate effectively, enhance collaboration with team members and deliver impactful presentations with confidence. *Courses can be taken individually. $499 PT | OL | A 24 Hours Learners will require a personal computer, laptop or mobile device with a reliable wifi connection to access coursework.
DIGITAL MARKETING
Certificate of Completion - This program covers a wide range of strategic issues, marketing methods and industry best practices. It includes nine comprehensive courses that feature engaging videos, interactive games and review questions to help you master the content. *Courses can be taken individually.
NEW! STATISTICAL CONSULTANT
Micro-credential - Immerse yourself in a program meticulously designed to empower individuals working across various sectors, including energy, education, agriculture, technology, business, financial technology and sustainability in Alberta. Gain the essential skills to understand and interpret data and transform it into insightful visualizations.
$799
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$1500
30 Hours Learners will require a personal computer, laptop or mobile device with a reliable wifi connection to access coursework.
Learners will require a personal computer (PC) or laptop with a reliable wifi connection to access coursework.
COMPUTER AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES
COMPUTER SKILLS FOR THE OFFICE
Certificate of Completion - Increase your knowledge about Microsoft Excel and Word and how to create a visually appealing PowerPoint presentation. Watch well-crafted video tutorials while reinforcing your learning with builtin knowledge checks, interactive exercises and games. *Courses can be taken individually.
CYBERSECURITY
Certificate of Completion - Acquire the skills necessary to detect and protect sensitive data and personal information from malicious attacks, theft and damage.
NETWORK ADMINISTRATION
Professional Diploma - Curious, analytical and logical learners will learn the necessary skills and knowledge to work as network administrators. If you are fascinated by cloud computing and network security and aspire to become the go-to desktop or server support team member, this program is perfect for you.
SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT
Professional Diploma - With this diploma, you’ll gain the expertise to identify software solutions, design web and mobile applications, create databases and launch them using cutting-edge programming languages.
CREATIVE ARTS
SERIES SUMMER ART WORKSHOPS
Community Program - From the beginner to the seasoned professional, Series students will advance their creative skills through engaging instruction delivered by practicing artists in RDP’s world-class art studios.
SERIES VISUAL ARTS CAMP FOR TEENS
Community Program - Youth aged 13 - 18 are invited to challenge themselves and develop as artists and individuals. Students will strengthen and expand their creative skills in this focused, hands-on workshops covering art mediums like painting, drawing, ceramics, sculpting, etc.
Jul 7 – 11, 2025
Jul 14 – 18, 2025
Jul 21 – 25, 2025
Jul 28 – Aug 1, 2025 1 Day Workshops Jul 19, 2025
Supply lists vary based on the workshop. For a complete list of workshops visit:
Supply lists vary. For more information visit:
August 11 - 15, 2025
ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGIES AND TRADES
NEW! POWER ENGINEERING FOURTH CLASS PART A & PART B
Certificate of Completion - These courses will cover subjects listed in the ABSA fourth class syllabus, including Basic Mathematics, Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Boiler Construction and Design, Codes and Standards, Electricity and Instrumentation.
RESIDENTIAL HEATING & COOLING TROUBLESHOOTING
Certificate of Completion - Through this program, you’ll develop focused troubleshooting methods and procedures to help you identify common issues with heating and cooling systems and make necessary repairs.
NEW! SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS
Micro-credential - The program is designed for individuals wanting to increase or gain essential skills in the solar installation industry. After completing the online self-directed learning at the participants’ own pace, students will attend a one-day hands-on session in RDP’s Alternative Energy Lab.
HEALTH AND COMMUNITY WELLNESS
ACTIVITY COORDINATOR IN COLLABORATION WITH ASCHA
Professional Certificate - This seven course certificate program provides a plethora of tools and techniques that will assist you in building a strong sense of community and creating a welcoming, socially inclusive environment for seniors. *Please note this program requires 7 Core Courses.
NEW! COMMUNITY HOUSING IN COLLABORATION WITH ASCHA
Professional Certificate - Learn to confidently navigate the complex landscape of community housing, addressing unique challenges such as government subsidy programs, rent-geared-to-income frameworks and supporting tenants with mental or developmental disabilities with empathy and understanding. *Please note this program requires 4 Core Courses and 3 Electives which can be taken in any order.
COMPLEX CARE & PATIENT NAVIGATOR
Micro-credential - This course will equip you with the skills to analyze and comprehend complex health information, allowing you to guide clients toward informed decisions about their healthcare journey. You will gain expertise in managing care coordination with different healthcare professionals.
Part A Feb 4, 2024
Part B Fall 2025
Residential Heating Troubleshooting
$1270
Residential Cooling Troubleshooting
$1270
2 Weeks | March 31, 2025 | PT | OC-M
Theory + 6 Hours
Hands-on Apr 14, 2025
Applicants must meet entrance requirements. View full requirements here:
Enrolment runs from September –May
Prior education as a Journeyman plumber, gasfitter, sheet metal or electrician.
Prior electrical certification is encouraged but not required. Learners will require a personal computer (PC) or laptop and a reliable wifi connection to access coursework.
Learners will require a personal computer (PC) or laptop with headset, microphone and a reliable wifi connection to access coursework.
Enrolment runs from September –May Learners will require a personal computer (PC) or laptop with headset, microphone and a reliable wifi connection to access coursework.
35 Hours Applicants must meet entrance requirements. View full requirements here:
HEALTH AND COMMUNITY WELLNESS – continued
HEALTH CARE AIDE
Certificate - Learn to assist individuals who need care in various ways including eating, dressing, washing and moving while establishing meaningful relationships with them and their families.
INDIGENOUS CARE FOUNDATIONS
Micro-credential - Our curriculum covers common mental health issues faced by Indigenous Peoples in Canada and equips you with strategies to identify and address health concerns.
MEDICAL OFFICE ASSISTANT
Professional Certificate - This program equips you with the necessary skills to support doctors and other health care professionals in medical clinics, hospitals, doctors’ offices, public and private insurance companies, as well as health software companies.
TRAUMA-INFORMED WORKFORCE
Certificate of Completion - This six-module micro-credential is designed to help individuals working with the public develop a trauma-informed approach to promote positive interactions with clients and colleagues. *Modules can be taken individually.
UNIT CLERK EXTENSION
Professional Certificate - Gain both theoretical and practical training throughout this program. You will hone your skills to effectively perform administrative, reception and clerical tasks at nursing stations, in units or wards of hospitals and continuing care centers.
NEW! CERTIFIED ASSOCIATE IN PROJECT MANAGEMENT (CAPM)® EXAM PREPARATION TRAINING
Certificate of Completion - The Certified Associate Project Manager (CAPM)® Exam Preparation Training will prepare you to ace the Project Management Institute (PMI)CAPM® exam, showing the world you have foundational project management team skills.
CREATIVITY & INNOVATION
Certificate of Completion - In today’s competitive market, organizations must stay innovative to thrive. This certificate program helps you tap into your creativity and provides the tools to identify and solve organizational challenges, driving success. *Courses can be taken individually.
8 Months May 1, 2025
Sept 2025
Jan 2026
Applicants must meet minimum requirements. View requirements here:
Dates TBD You will require a personal computer with a microphone, and reliable wifi to access class.
Theory + 105 Hours
Preceptorship
May 5, 2025
Fall 2025
Oct 21, 2024
Jan 20, 2025
Apr 21, 2025
View suggested requirements here:
Theory + 105 Hours
Preceptorship
May 5, 2025
You will require a personal computer with a microphone, and reliable wifi to access class.
Academic, Health & Safety Requirements. View full requirements here:
over 3 days
Feb 18, 2025
Mar 18, 2025
Apr 22, 2025
May 20, 2025
Jun 17, 2025
Learners will require a personal computer (PC) or laptop with a reliable wifi connection to access coursework.
Learners will require a personal computer, laptop or mobile device with a reliable wifi connection to access coursework.
LEADERSHIP – continued
INTRODUCTION TO MANAGEMENT
Certificate of Completion - This course will help current and aspiring managers grasp effective management foundations. Learn the fundamental tools, skills and competencies for navigating workplace relationships, coaching employees and leading teams while adhering to HR laws and best practices.
LEADERSHIP FOR WOMEN IN BUSINESS
Certificate of Completion - Explore the social and psychological mechanisms that pose unique challenges for professional women and learn key concepts and practices to address these challenges.
NEW! LEAN SIX SIGMA
One Day Workshop - learn Lean Six Sigma principles using the DMAIC (define, measure, analyze, improve and control) steps for continuous improvement to increase business value.
LEAN SIX SIGMA
Certificate of Completion - Lean Six Sigma methodology helps to identify problems, optimize resources and achieve the best results in the most efficient and cost-effective ways. These courses will teach you how to transform workflow challenges into statistical opportunities and develop effective strategies for streamlined operations to meet the needs of your clients.
MANAGEMENT SKILLS FOR SUPERVISORS
Professional Certificate - Through in-person collaboration with peers and instructors, you will acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to confidently manage people and increase productivity.
MANAGING CHANGE AND RESOLVING CONFLICT
Certificate of Completion - Leaders and managers are often called upon to deal with the challenging impacts of change, resolve disputes with partners and customers, and resolve conflict within the organization. This sevencourse program covers the key issues and best practices for managers dealing with contentious situations in the workplace. *Courses can be taken individually.
NEW! PROJECT MANAGEMENT
One Day Workshop - learn the twelve basic project management principles and tools to increase productivity and create business value regardless of project size, type or complexity in any industry.
$119 PT | OL | A 3 Hours
Learners will require a personal computer, laptop or mobile device with a reliable wifi connection to access coursework.
$699 PT | OL | A 23 Hours Learners will require a personal computer, laptop or mobile device with a reliable wifi connection to access coursework.
$249 6.5 Hours OL | S
Mar 21, 2025 or Apr 15, 2025 OC-D
Apr 17, 2025 or Apr 25, 2025
Yellow Belt
$899 Green Belt
$1100 PT | OL | A Yellow Belt 28 Hours Green Belt 40 Hours
Online learners will require a personal computer (PC) or laptop with a reliable wifi connection to access coursework.
Online learners will require a personal computer (PC) or laptop with a reliable wifi connection to access coursework. *The Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt must proceed the Green Belt
$995 26 Hours
PT | OC-D | Fri x 4
Mar 7, 2025 | May 23, 2025
FT | IP | Lacombe | Mon - Thurs Jul 28, 2025
PT | OL | S | Thurs x 4 Apr 3, 2025
N/A
$899 PT | OL | A 30 Hours Learners will require a personal computer, laptop or mobile device with a reliable wifi connection to access coursework.
$249 6.5 Hours
OC-D
Mar 11, 2025 or Apr 10, 2025
OL | S
Mar 13, 2025 or Apr 8, 2025
Online learners will require a personal computer (PC) or laptop with a reliable wifi connection to access coursework.
LEADERSHIP – continued
NEW! PROJECT MANAGEMENT PROFESSIONAL (PMP)® EXAM PREPARATION TRAINING
Certificate of Completion - The Project Management Professional (PMP)® certification is a globally recognized, distinguished credential. It conveys an individual’s expertise in directing projects across various industries by skillfully managing personnel, processes and business priorities.
$1395 PT | OL | S 35 Hours days (5)
Feb 24, 2025
Mar 24, 2025
Apr 28, 2025
May 26, 2025
Jun 23, 2025 evenings (3 weeks M,W,F)
Mar 31, 2025
Jun 30, 2025
Before you apply, make sure you meet one of the following sets of PMP® Certification requirements: View full requirements here:
RECREATION FACILITY MANAGEMENT IN COLLABORATION WITH AARFP
Professional Certificate - The Recreation Facility Management Certificate program, in partnership with the Alberta Association of Recreation Facility Personnel (AARFP), delivers technical and management skills specific to the recreation industry to aspiring supervisors and managers and those with less than five years of experience in a management role. *Please note that all Level 1 Courses are registered through AARFP. Registration for the mandatory Management Skills for Supervisors (MSFS) takes place through RDP.
SITE MANAGER IN COLLABORATION WITH ASCHA
Professional Certificate - In the collaborative Site Manager Certificate program, you will learn from instructors who deliver theoretical and practical principles that teach frontline management skills for operations and personnel. In this program, you will also learn how to effectively handle communication and conflict resolution within the parameters of the aging process. *Please note this program requires four Core Courses and three Electives.
PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT AND LIFE SKILLS
CAREER-BUILDING COURSES
Certificate of Completion - All professionals can benefit from skill development and reinforcement, whether they are just entering their fields or currently holding leadership roles. These career-building courses can equip you with the essential skills along your journey.
LIFE & EMPLOYMENT SKILLS FOR INDEPENDENCE (LESI)
Professional Diploma - Throughout the program, learners with developmental disabilities will earn ProServe, First Aid and WHIMS certifications that will allow them to gain practical skills while increasing their employability.
$100 Registration Fee PLUS
• Arena Operator Level 1
• Parks and Sports Fields Level 1
• Building Maintenance Level 1
• Swimming Pool Operator Level 1
$467.25 each + GST via AARFP
90 Hours | AARFP Availability varies |
MSFS - Mar 7, Apr 3, May 23 or Jul 28, 2025
$3675 NonASCHA Member
$2756.26 ASCHA Member
PT | OL 42 Hours Enrolment runs from September –May
Learners must complete Management Skills for Supervisors Certification program before enrolling in this program
Learners will require a personal computer (PC) or laptop with a reliable wifi connection to access coursework.
$15,690
Learners will require a personal computer, laptop or mobile device with a reliable wifi connection to access coursework.
View full requirements here:
Corporate Training Solutions
Let us help you grow your business!
Supportive, explorative and client-centred.
Investing in your team’s training is crucial for your organization’s growth and success. By providing your employees with the right training solutions, you can improve their engagement, increase talent attraction and retention and reduce turnover. Our customized training programs are designed to cater to your team’s individual development needs, helping you achieve your goals and gain a competitive advantage. We can customize training from the programs and courses identified throughout this guide or find a different solution that may better suit your team.
GROUP TRAINING
Our extensive and flexible suite of training solutions will help you create a more efficient, effective and productive work environment for your team.
CUSTOMIZED TRAINING
Your business is unique and has specific objectives. We can help you by evaluating your needs and developing a comprehensive custom training plan specifically aimed at meeting your organization’s specific needs.
WE PARTNER IN THREE PRIORITY AREAS WHICH INCLUDE:
• Local business and industry
Local organizations, municipal and provincial governments
• Indigenous communities
First Nations, Métis and Inuit students and communities
• International
Post-secondary institutional partners, local and territorial governments
OUR FOUR-STEP CLIENT-CENTRED APPROACH
Experience a client-centred approach when it comes to your corporate training initiatives. What does client-centred mean? To us – it means learning about your organization and its unique objectives.
1
CANADA-ALBERTA JOB GRANT
The Canada-Alberta Job Grant is a training program where an employer applies on behalf of their present or future employees for eligible training costs. Employers decide who gets training and what type of training may be needed for their employees.
For funding availability and eligibility, scan:
2
TRAINING NEEDS ASSESSMENT
We help you understand and identify the gaps and opportunities by taking time to learn about your organization and your objectives.
DESIGN
We develop a customized training program that is designed to meet your objectives.
3
DELIVER
We deliver customized training to your team utilizing delivery methods and timing that work best for your organization, including online, on campus or onsite.
4
EVALUATE & SHARE
We measure what matters. By utilizing learner feedback instruments, we can provide your organization with relevant and specific feedback to support their continued development further.
CONTACT
Not sure where to begin? Our dedicated team would be happy to meet with you to determine the next steps for you and your organization. corporate.training@rdpolytech.ca 403.356.4900
Submit an online inquiry here:
“ Student Scholarship Award Winner
I am so glad I chose to enrol at Red Deer Polytechnic. Having the opportunity to apply for and win the Laura Crawford Scholarship was an extra bonus!
If you are thinking about online education, do it! The instructors at Red Deer Polytechnic are just an email away and will help you with any questions. Put in the time and work, and you will gain many invaluable skills to use in your workplace from this program. Red Deer Polytechnic opens the gateway to a career in the senior housing sector.
Colleen Young, Activity Coordinator Certificate, 2023/2024
Tuition Payment and Funding Information
SCHOLARSHIPS, GRANTS AND PAYMENT PLANS
Activity Coordinator and Site Manager Collaborative Programs Scholarship
Learners registered in the Activity Coordinator and Site Manager Certificate programs can apply for the Laura Crawford Scholarship worth $1000. This scholarship is granted to one student each year who is enrolled in either certificate programs. Learn more or apply at:
Series Summer Arts Workshops Scholarship and Award
Learners registered in our Series Summer Art Workshops or students registered in the Red Deer Polytechnic Visual Arts program are eligible to apply for a Scholarship (General Applicants) or Award (current RDP Visual Arts Students).
Learn more or apply at:
Foundational Learning Assistance for Life and Employment Skills for Independence Students
Foundational Learning Assistance offers grant funding to adult learners enrolled in Red Deer Polytechnic’s Life and Employment Skills for Independence (LESI) program. For funding availability and eligibility, scan:
The following programs qualify for our payment plan option
To access the plan please email continuing. education@rdpolytech.ca prior to registration and we can connect you with a member on our team who will walk you through the process one-on-one.
• Accounting Technician (evening online cohort)
• Medical Office Assistant
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