Olds College

Founded 1913 | Olds, AB

Olds College is the largest agricultural college in Alberta and has maintained its small class sizes and practical training since its founding over a century ago. Most of the school’s 1,400 students attend the main campus in Olds, while the rest study at the Calgary site, which is home to the school’s fashion institute.

The college offers programming in agriculture, horticulture, land and environment management, animal science, food production, business and trades. The school’s extensive facilities include a “farm of the future,” which employs the latest technologies to boost productivity and use resources sustainably. The 2,800-acre smart farm is home to 160 cows and 120 sheep, as well as the Smart Ag Innovation Centre, which gathers and analyzes data from the farm. Through applied research, these facilities accelerate the development of technologies that improve productivity, profitability and sustainability in the agricultural and agri-food industries.

Students can opt to live on the main campus in townhouse-style residences that accommodate up to four people per unit or in the newer Centennial Village residence, which has 450 single rooms with double beds and private washrooms. Communal spaces include a fitness centre and a large student lounge with a fireplace and a big-screen TV.

Popular Programs

• Agricultural Management Diploma

• Agricultural and Heavy Equipment Diploma

• Business Management Diploma

• Veterinary Medical Receptionist Certificate

• Animal Health Technology Diploma

School Size

Small

Tuition

• Degree: $6,830

• Diploma: $6,830-$7,814

• Certificate: $3,540-$13,178

• Post-Grad: $6,378-$7,275

Residence Offerings

Yes

Cool Options

• Agriculture Technology Integration Post-Diploma Certificate: Students with previous skills in mechanics, agriculture, environment, technology or engineering strengthen their credentials by learning to link emerging technologies with existing farm infrastructure. This enables producers to optimize their time in the field.

• Brewmaster and Brewery Operations Management Diploma: Students learn the art, science and business of the brewing industry at the school’s very own 2,300-square-foot brewing facility.

• Meat Processing Certificate: During this 15-week program, students take a deep dive into each stage of the meat preparation, manufacturing and retail process at the school’s newly remodelled National Meat Training facilities.