
Business Diploma
Red Deer Polytechnic Campus, Canada
Business Diploma
Red Deer Polytechnic
Business
Business Diploma Program Overview
The Business Diploma at Red Deer Polytechnic is a two-year program that equips you with essential business principles and operational knowledge. You will develop the skills to manage a business effectively in today's global marketplace while exploring key functional areas such as accounting, marketing, management, HR, operations, entrepreneurship, and finance.
This program is designed for individuals wanting to quickly progress into management positions, manage their own business location, or gain the skills, insight, and confidence to run a successful enterprise. With practical assignments, hands-on learning, and a 90-hour work-integrated learning opportunity, you will graduate ready to enter the workforce or continue your education.
Diploma graduates can enter Year 3 of the Bachelor of Business Administration program at RDP, creating an efficient pathway to complete a full bachelor's degree. The diploma also prepares you for potential transfer into a Bachelor of Commerce program at various Canadian universities, giving you flexible options for your academic future.
Key Program Highlights
- 90-hour work-integrated learning placement with Central Alberta employers for real-world business experience
- Direct pathway into Year 3 of the Bachelor of Business Administration at Red Deer Polytechnic
- Comprehensive coverage of all core business functions including accounting, marketing, HR, finance, and entrepreneurship
- Available for both full-time and part-time study with flexible scheduling to suit your needs
Curriculum & Course Modules
The Business Diploma consists of 20 courses totalling 60 credits. You will complete 18 core business courses and choose 2 elective options to customize your program. Year 1 builds a strong foundation across all business functions, while Year 2 deepens your expertise and includes the work-integrated learning experience.
Introduction to Business
3 CreditsAn overview of the business environment, covering fundamental concepts of how organizations operate, compete, and create value in the modern economy.
Financial Accounting
3 CreditsLearn the principles of financial accounting, including recording transactions, preparing financial statements, and analyzing financial data for business decision-making.
Marketing Principles
3 CreditsExplore the fundamentals of marketing strategy, consumer behaviour, market research, and the marketing mix including product, pricing, promotion, and distribution.
Human Resources Management
3 CreditsStudy the key functions of human resources including recruitment, employee relations, performance management, compensation, and workplace legislation.
Business Finance
3 CreditsDevelop skills in financial planning, analysis, and management. Topics include time value of money, risk assessment, capital budgeting, and investment evaluation.
Work-Integrated Learning
3 CreditsApply business concepts in real-world workplace or community settings during a 90-hour placement. Develop communication, teamwork, professionalism, and cross-cultural awareness skills valued by employers.
Elective Options
Admission Requirements
Admission to the Business Diploma program is offered on a first-come, first-served basis to qualified applicants who meet all minimum requirements. International students who have completed high school education outside of Alberta should have their coursework assessed for equivalency. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on how your credentials align with Canadian admission standards.
Academic Requirements
- English Language ArtsMinimum 65% in ELA 30-2, or minimum 60% in ELA 30-1 (or equivalent)
- MathematicsMinimum 65% in MATH 30-2, or minimum 60% in MATH 30-1 (or equivalent)
- Alternative EntrySuccessful completion of the RDP Business Certificate (or equivalent) with transfer credit for up to 10 courses
- Accuplacer TestMinimum 250 on Reading, 250 on Writing, 5 on WritePlacer Essay, and/or 250 on Arithmetic (if applicable)
- International CredentialsHigh school transcripts evaluated for Alberta equivalency; contact Uni4Edu for country-specific guidance
English Language Proficiency Requirements
- IELTS AcademicOverall 6.5 with at least 5.5 on each band score
- English Medium InstructionThree years of full-time education in English in a regular high school or post-secondary credit program
- Test ValidityAll English language proficiency test results must be obtained within two years of the program start date
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
Red Deer Polytechnic provides over CAD 1,000,000 in awards and scholarships each year to support students across its programs. These awards are granted based on academic achievement, community involvement, and financial need. Contact Uni4Edu to learn about funding opportunities available to international Business Diploma students.
RDP Entrance Awards
Merit-based entrance awards available to new students demonstrating strong academic performance in their prior education. Multiple awards are offered each intake cycle.
RDP Academic Achievement Awards
Awards recognizing students who maintain outstanding academic standing during their studies at Red Deer Polytechnic. Available to continuing students in the Business Diploma program.
External Scholarships & Government Aid
VariesVarious external scholarships and government financial aid options may be available depending on your country of origin and circumstances. Uni4Edu can help you identify and apply for relevant funding opportunities.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the Business Diploma program are well-prepared for a variety of roles across multiple sectors including finance, retail, corporate services, government, and non-profits. RDP's strong connections with Central Alberta employers and the 90-hour work-integrated learning placement help you build professional relationships and gain practical experience before graduation.
Potential Career Paths
Notable Employers of RDP Graduates
Rankings & Recognition
Red Deer Polytechnic is a publicly funded polytechnic institution founded in 1964 and accredited by the Ministry of Advanced Education in Alberta, Canada. As a polytechnic focused on applied and practical education, RDP is recognized nationally for its growing research capacity and strong industry partnerships rather than through traditional university ranking systems.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Applied Research (Polytechnics & Colleges) | Research Infosource Inc. | #31 in Canada |
| AI Research Partnerships | Research Infosource Inc. | #5 in Canada |
| AI Completed Research Projects | Research Infosource Inc. | #5 in Canada |
| Graduate Satisfaction Rate | Institutional Data | 89-94% |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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