CBU Launches Two New Master of Education Programs

Cape Breton University has launched two new Master of Education Programs. Both the Master of Education in Critical Curriculum Studies (CSS) and the Master of Education in Holistic School Health and Well-Being are now accepting applications for the Fall 2025 semester.

“At Cape Breton University, we recognize the need for innovative programming to better serve our local community, and global citizens,” says President and Vice-Chancellor, David C. Dingwall. “We are thrilled to be offering two new fully online Master of Education Programs that will better prepare those working in the education field. Graduates of these programs will obtain the skill sets to tackle issues related to social justice in education and will have the ability to improve inclusive education practices and well-being in school communities.”

The M.Ed. in Critical Curriculum Studies (CSS) emphasizes critical explorations of educational phenomena, within and beyond the scope of schools. At the core of CCS are inquiries into social justice issues in education, including those related to colonialism, race, disability, gender, sexuality, class or socio-economic status, cultural and linguistic difference, and environmental justice for populations including those of African descent, Indigenous peoples and newcomers. Several concepts serve as central lenses to explore matters of curriculum including:

•               Criticality, creativity, reimagination and transformation

•               Intersectionality and identity

•               Reflexive inquiry

•               Interconnectedness and Interrelatedness

The M.Ed. in Holistic School Health and Well-Being will provide educators with graduate level experiences to explore the knowledge, skills and practice of how best to support all people and abilities within an educational setting. It draws upon the need to improve inclusive education practices while improving well-being in school communities. The program is organized through a lens of Contributing to Holistic School Health and Well-Being including:

•               Embracing Diverse Perspectives

•               Leveraging the Outdoors, Movement, and Physical and Mental Health Literacies

•               Education for Sustainability

“We are delighted to offer two new Master of Education programs, both of which cultivate creativity and curiosity while nurturing well-being and good relations with people and planet,” says Ellyn Lyle, Dean of the School of Education and Health. “Our vibrant community of passionate educators and experienced practitioners look forward to welcoming you into these programs and supporting you in your pursuit of graduate education.”

The structure of both programs is designed to allow for a balance between work, study and life responsibilities, ensuring that students can continue their professional development while maintaining other commitments.

The M.Ed. in Critical Curriculum Studies is offered in a flexible format to accommodate working professionals. Students can choose between full-time or part-time study with courses delivered fully online. All students are required to complete certain courses and then may choose to fulfil program requirements through either course-based, project-based or thesis-based pathways.

The M.Ed. in Holistic School Health & Well-Being can be completed as quickly as 2.5 years of study (with a maximum of 7 years to complete – aligning with Teacher Certification requirements). Schedules are flexible, with an online asynchronous format, and designed to accommodate the diverse needs of students.

Those looking to apply to either program can do so by visiting cbu.ca/apply.