Creative design students from across Canada can take advantage of the first ever partnership between Olds College and the University of Lethbridge.

Beginning with the Fall 2015 Semester, the new agreement provides for an easy transfer from Olds College’s Apparel Technology diploma program to a degree program in the University of Lethbridge’s Department of Theatre and Dramatic Arts.

This innovative two-plus-two opportunity enables college students, who meet program criteria, to transfer to the University and receive two years of credit for their previous studies at the College. These students enroll in the University’s post-diploma Bachelor of Fine Arts – Dramatic Arts program with a major in Technical/Design and finish their last two years of the degree program at the U of L.

“Consistent with the vision of Campus Alberta, this direct transfer agreement to the University of Lethbridge's Bachelor of Fine Arts is a great example of simplifying our students’ transition to university,” says Teri McKinnon, Calgary Campus Manager, Olds College Fashion Institute. “The University of Lethbridge continues our students’ access to enhanced, personalized teaching from instructors with extensive experience in performing arts.”

“This agreement really adds value for students wanting to broaden their knowledge, and skills,” adds Dr. Edward Jurkowski, dean, Faculty of Fine Arts, University of Lethbridge. “Students will have numerous opportunities to gain varied experience during their studies, given the enormous number of fine arts activities at the College, University and, in particular, within the Calgary and Lethbridge communities.”

At the U of L, Technical/Design majors combine academic studies with an immersive approach that prepares graduates for the ever-changing world of theatre, whether they want to work with established theatre companies or on their own artist plans.