Study Arts & Community Studies on Canada’s #1 Island
Unique to Cape Breton University, the Bachelor of Arts Community Studies program is a highly flexible, process-oriented, experiential program that will prepare you for today’s job market. With community at its core, the Bachelor of Arts Community Studies program is focused on problem-solving, critical thinking and community-based research. The career possibilities are endless, including social work, counseling, law enforcement and more.
Program Start Dates:
September, January & May
View Important Dates & Deadlines
Estimated Tuition & Fees:
$8,500 (Nova Scotian Resident)
$9,800 (Canadian Resident)
$19,600 (International)
View Cost Breakdown
Program Overview
Upon completing this program, you’ll walk away with:
- Universal Skills. With courses in public speaking, communication, and writing, you’ll earn noteworthy skills that position you for successful entry into the job market.
- Career Opportunities. Understand the day-to-day functions and roles that operate within a multitude of environments and industries.
- Co-op Experience. Take the hands-on approach and apply your knowledge to real workplace experiences in the community.
Course Details
Connect to the essence of community.
COMS-1100 Introduction to Community Studies
Within the context of a small group, students are encouraged to develop and employ a variety of skills including problem solving, critical analysis, research and writing. Both individual and group projects are required. Student groups will meet during scheduled class times. This applies to all delivery methods: online, on campus and in community. Core course in the BACS degree program and an elective in other programs.
COMS-2100 Applied Research
Special arrangements will be made for students who have completed COMS2103 but not COMS2105. Students engage in group projects which apply the problem-solving skills of the first year and develop additional abilities and techniques of primary research, analysis, and evaluation. Student groups will meet during scheduled class times. This applies to all delivery methods: online, on campus and in community.
COMS-3100 Community Action Project
Students work together in small groups to investigate an issue and then design, implement and evaluate an appropriate community action project. Student groups will meet during scheduled class times. This applies to all delivery methods: online, on campus and in community.
Hear From One of Our Students
Who You’ll Learn From
The Bachelor of Arts Community Studies program is guided by Cape Breton University’s School of Arts & Social Sciences faculty, as well as industry experts who share a wealth of work experience, in-depth knowledge and career insights.
Teena Campbell, Lecturer
Teena Campbell holds a Bachelor of Science, Physical Education from St. Francis Xavier University 1993, along with a Master of Education with a specialization in Sport Administration from Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 2003. Currently Teena is a Lecturer at CBU in the area of Experiential Studies in Community and Sport. Teena has taught the following classes during her time at CBU; FRNC 1102, Experiential Studies in Community and Sporties in Community and Sport 1104, 2108, COMS 2105.
Bettina Callery, Canada Research Chair in Sport Coaching and Adult Learning, Associate Professor
Dr. Bettina Callary teaches in the Sport and Physical Activity Leadership program, focusing on coaching and sport psychology. Her research expertise is in the development of coach learning and coaching effectiveness, especially regarding marginalized or understudied populations, such as older adult (Masters) sport and women in coaching. She is the Editor-in Chief of the International Sport Coaching Journal, and a trained Coach Developer through the International Council for Coaching Excellence, as well as the National Coaching Certification Program and Alpine Canada.
Jane Connell, Assistant Professor, Community Studies
Dr. Jane Connell is an Assistant Professor in the department of Community Studies focusing in Experiential Studies in Community and Sport. Dr. Connell holds a BACS degree from CBU, an M.Ed in Adult Education from St.FX, and her PhD from the University of South Australia. She is current the Chair of the Community Studies Department here at CBU.
Want to Know More?
To view the admission requirements for this program, please visit cbu.ca/bacs.
Like many institutions, CBU recognizes education completed at other post-secondary institutions. Students who have been successfully admitted to CBU and who already have some education behind them can apply for transfer credit.
Transfer credit is awarded for any course a student has successfully taken that is a good match with a course offered by CBU. Students can then use these credits to fulfill up to 50% of the requirements for their CBU degree. Learn more at cbu.ca/transfer.
Your time spent at CBU isn’t just about what you study, it’s much more than that. It’s about the friendships you make, the adventures you take and the sense of CBU pride you build while earning your degree.
Whether you decide to live off campus or on campus, getting involved in CBU’s campus life is an important piece of your university experience. Visit cbu.ca/recreation to learn more about ways you can get involved.
On Campus Housing
If you will require housing, our on-campus residence will be a big part of your university experience. It’s true when they say CBU residence will be your new home away from home. View our residence options by visiting cbu.ca/residence.
Off Campus Housing
CBU is surrounded by close-knit communities that offer amenities like grocery stores, fitness centres, urgent care centres and pharmacies. Visit cbu.ca/off-campus-living to learn more about housing options.
Get a glimpse of campus and academic life and some of our favorite places on Cape Breton Island by exploring our virtual tour or book a guided tour in person at cbu.ca/tour.
Start Your Application Today
Enrol in the Bachelor of Arts Community Studies program at Cape Breton University.
Interested in a different program? With more than 20 programs and 60 areas of study, the choice is yours.