COURSE CURRICULUM

The four-year Bachelor of Arts Community Studies (BACS) degree at Cape Breton University is designed as an advanced, experiential program that builds a deep understanding of communities through progressive learning across social, cultural, and applied fields. In the first year, students complete introductory community studies courses along with general arts subjects, developing foundational skills in communication, critical thinking, and social analysis. The second year expands into more focused areas such as community development, diversity, cultural studies, and social justice, helping students understand how communities are shaped by economic, political, and historical forces. In the third year, students move into more applied and specialized learning, including leadership studies, public policy, community research methods, and program planning, with opportunities to engage in experiential or community-based learning activities. The fourth year emphasizes advanced integration of knowledge through senior seminars, independent research, and capstone projects that address real community issues and solutions. Throughout all four years, the program strongly emphasizes hands-on learning, teamwork, and problem-solving, often involving community partnerships, fieldwork, and applied research. Students also refine skills in communication, collaboration, and analysis. Overall, the curriculum prepares graduates for professional roles in community development, social services, public administration, non-profit organizations, and advocacy, as well as for further academic study.