COURSE CURRICULUM

The four-year Bachelor of Arts Community Studies (BACS) in Philosophy at Cape Breton University is designed to develop advanced skills in critical thinking, logical reasoning, and ethical analysis through a structured and progressive curriculum. In the first year, students take introductory philosophy courses along with core community studies and general arts electives, focusing on foundational topics such as logic, ethics, and basic philosophical ideas while building skills in reading, writing, and argument analysis. In the second year, students study major areas of philosophy including ancient, modern, and contemporary traditions, as well as core branches such as epistemology, metaphysics, and political philosophy, helping them understand how philosophical ideas develop and connect across time. In the third year, the program moves into advanced and applied study, including courses in ethics, philosophy of mind, philosophy of science, and social and political philosophy, often using seminar-based learning and in-depth textual analysis. In the fourth year, students complete senior seminars, advanced electives, and an independent research project or capstone experience that allows them to explore complex philosophical questions in detail. Across all four years, students strengthen reasoning, communication, and analytical skills. The flexible BACS structure also allows interdisciplinary electives, preparing graduates for careers or further study in law, education, public policy, business, and related fields.