COURSE CURRICULUM

The first year of the Community Development program at Acadia University offers students a strong and balanced introduction to leadership, communication, sustainability, and practical community engagement. In the first semester, students begin with Foundations of Leadership (CODE 1013), where they explore core principles of leadership and personal development in a community context. They also take Environment and Sustainable Society (CODE 1023), which introduces environmental challenges and sustainable practices, linking local action to global concerns. Communication and Professional Skills (CODE 1043) helps students build strong written and verbal communication abilities that are essential for effective community work and leadership. Introduction to Business 1 (BUSI 1703) provides insight into the basics of organizational management and entrepreneurship, which can support future work in community-based organizations or social enterprises. An elective course allows students to begin shaping their degree based on personal interests. In the second semester, students take Community Development (CODE 1033) paired with a Community Experience Lab (CODE 1030L), where classroom learning is applied to real-life community engagement activities. This hands-on component gives students early exposure to fieldwork and allows them to reflect critically on their role in community development. Students also choose another business course, selecting from a range of first- or second-year BUSI offerings to deepen their understanding of organizational dynamics. Three additional electives, including at least one in arts or science, allow for flexibility and exploration across disciplines. This combination of theory, practical experience, and interdisciplinary learning prepares students for the challenges and opportunities of working in diverse communities. By the end of their first year, students will have begun building the leadership, collaboration, and communication skills that are essential for success in the program and in their future roles as community leaders and changemakers.