Bachelor of Business Administration (concentration) in Human Resources (Co-op)

at Cape Breton University Canada

Help contribute to a future we can all be proud of with a Bachelor of Arts and Science in Environment (BASE). CBU’s first fully interdisciplinary degree, the BASE program takes advantage of the natural resources available among the breathtaking scenery on Cape Breton Island. The BASE program reflects a university-wide commitment to teaching and research in environment and sustainability, and is enriched by Indigenous perspectives.

With dedicated professors and unprecedented research opportunities, the breadth of the BASE program ensures graduates have wide-ranging skill sets. When you enroll in BASE, you are immersed in three streams simultaneously: a science concentration; an arts/social science concentration; and a core set of environment-themed courses specially designed for this program.

Each year, the themes of these courses may change to reflect our world-class faculty’s specialties or timely environmental issues. Respect for, and inclusion of, Indigenous knowledge is a guiding principle of BASE. All students will have the opportunity to take Mi’kmaq Studies courses toward their degree, preparing you to be an active and responsible agent in the development of sustainable environmental practices.

What skills will I gain from this program?

• Communication and writing in science and arts/humanities fields.
• Critical thinking skills.
• Experience in multiple academic disciplines.
• Solid background in science and arts/humanities/social science.
• Deep knowledge of relevant environmental issues.

Why study at CBU?

• This dynamic program attracts students from around the globe who are passionate about making a positive impact on the ever-changing world around them.
• The BASE program was developed with two primary objectives: to bridge the arts and sciences; and to provide a unique education in environmental issues and sustainability.
• The entire island is yours to explore. That’s why you’ll find learning outcomes include knowledge about local and global environmental issues, as well as practical skills in writing, and quantitative and qualitative analysis. Plus, the fluid communication of ideas in a small-knit community means your hard work will get noticed. At its core, this program prepares students to consider environmental issues from a broad range of angles, and to develop interdisciplinary approaches to creating solutions.

Experiential Learning Opportunities

• Field Course (ENVS3104)
• Volunteer and extracurricular opportunities (e. CBU Environmental Society, Science Atlantic Environment Conference)
• Co-op option, examples include:
  • Parks Canada technical positions
  • Parks Canada Outreach and Education positions
  • ACAP
  • Cape Breton Fish Harvesters Association technical positions
  • CBU research assistantships
  • Tourism organizations outreach positions

Communication helps the world work together. It helps people see the world more clearly, and helps to create mutual understanding. This is especially true when your world is an island wonderland filled with unlimited opportunity and intellectual resources. That’s Cape Breton and this is CBU – a place where you can learn to communicate with efficiency, respect and effectiveness. Here, you leverage your naturally existing communication skills to amplify and expand your other communication-based talents.

Clear and creative communication is critically important for safe, stable communities and workplaces. That’s why we’re proud to say Cape Breton University offers the only communication major in the Maritimes.

The theories and skills learned in our program are essential for successful careers, healthy relationships and the development of a deep understanding of communication and its functions in society. Through our on-campus and distance courses, communication students explore various areas of interpersonal and public communication, media studies and cultural studies. These dynamic and energetic environments allow students to develop the skills and knowledge base needed to critically examine and understand communication in all aspects of society

What skills will I gain from this program?

• Critical thinking and reflection skills
• Conflict management / resolution
• Effective public speaking skills
• Effective interpersonal communication skills
• Media literacy and analytic approaches to media messages
• Leadership, team building and collaborative working skills
• Ability to apply communication theory in wide-ranging contexts

Why study at CBU?

• At CBU, our modern facilities and experienced faculty guide you through the intricacies of communication. This includes areas that touch on relationships, communities, culture, history and technology. We believe communication is ever-changing and evolving, so our faculty continue to stay up-to-date by exploring the impact that new technologies, practices and forms have on our daily lives.
• With the guidance of a communication lab peer facilitator, students work in small groups and participate in dynamic, hands-on activities and discussions. These discussions help them put into practice the communication theories and skills they study in the classroom. Peer facilitators are upper-level students who have excelled in their studies and have a passion for helping other students develop as communicators. Peer facilitators take our communication facilitation courses and receive training to gain personal and professional experience in this unique leadership role.

Cape Breton Island is a hotbed of culture, with a rich, varied landscape of traditions and lore. Traditionally, folklore is the study of informal culture.

The study of a group’s folklore yields valuable insights into how that group operates in the world, but also reveals biases, prejudices and other obstacles to a more inclusive worldview. Most often, folklore is expressive and manifests itself in certain forms, such as story and song, festival and feast, architecture and craft. Although these forms may be manifested in a distinct way by each group, they recur in similar ways across cultures, so folklore examines both the particular context and the general formal patterns of expressive culture.

After providing a solid introduction to folklore genres, analytical approaches and ethnographic methods, folklore students take a balance of regional folklore courses (courses primarily about folklore in Atlantic Canada), and courses emphasizing genres and issues (such as urban legend, gender, food and cultural tourism).

CBU students learn practical skills in interviewing, fieldwork, and ethnographic research while also gaining an awareness of international heritage policy. Folklore’s interdisciplinary nature promotes sharing concerns, methods and insights with others. Through this group learning dynamic, folklore students acquire skills and knowledge that are applicable in a wide range of careers.

What skills will I gain from this program?

• Understand how folklore informs our worldview.
• Recognize the prevalence of folklore in contemporary society.
• Ethnographic fieldwork.
• Analyze the use of traditional forms and styles in popular culture.
• Research and writing.

With the winds of inspiration blowing in from the Atlantic Ocean, you naturally get the energy you need to excel at anything you put your mind to. Our inspiring environment and relaxed atmosphere attracts students from more than 40 countries to live, work and play on the island we’re proud to call home. Voted #8 on the top islands to visit in the world by Travel + Leisure Magazine, students come here for the abundance of opportunities for outdoor adventure. Experience the very best of education while studying sport and physical activity leadership with active, well-being-focused courses within the BACS degree.

At CBU, we aim to help students deepen their insights into issues around leadership of sport and physical activity. Students graduate with a deep understanding of how their field affects individuals and communities alike, gaining skills and experience in outdoor leadership, sport management and coaching. We teach the essentials needed to stay prepared for leadership in various careers that range from education to entertainment and beyond.

What skills will I gain from this program?

• Understanding of physical activity at various levels
• Learn the relationship between sport and community
• Discover the importance of outdoor and indoor activities

Why study at CBU?
There are so many advantages to living, working and studying in Cape Breton. That’s because CBU has competitive advantages other places can’t offer. Wide open spaces. Incredible views. A welcoming community. Plus, our community-based sport, recreation and physical activity programs are facilitated by approachable faculty who use an experience-based learning style.

CBU is a top choice for students around the world. Partly because it’s the only program in Canada that focuses on sport and physical activity, which includes a core competence of interdisciplinary, community-oriented and process-based learning courses. Additionally, the flexibility and variety of options you can take in conjunction with the major in Sport and Physical Activity Leadership gives students opportunities to develop knowledge from multiple disciplines, subjects and perspectives.

One look at island life and it becomes clear: CBU is a special place that is focused and determined to make the world a better place. The passion for innovation and collaboration runs deep in our history and fuels our future.

The engineering transfer program is offered at CBU on an associate basis with Dalhousie University. CBU is one of the few Associated Universities to offer the first two years of all seven engineering disciplines. These include civil, environmental, mineral resource, electrical, industrial, mechanical and chemical engineering. We deliver the first two years of the four-year Bachelor of Engineering program.

The first year of the program is common for all seven discipline options. At the end of the first year, you must make a decision on a specialty. Application is made at this time to both CBU and Dalhousie for a seat in the particular discipline of choice.

During year two, you will be registered at both CBU and Dalhousie University.

Students can also combine a BSc in either chemistry or mathematics with the Engineering Diploma. This program requires a third year of study at CBU to complete the BSc, followed by two years at Dalhousie University to complete the BEng.

What skills will I gain from this program?

• Reduce complex problems using appropriate assumptions.
• Identify appropriate engineering tools for real-world problems.
• Learn to plan for safety and sustainability issues.
• Explain interactions between technical systems in various contexts.
• Become an effective leader and team member.

Why study at CBU?

• Our friendly, welcoming, respectful community helps engineering students connect solutions with real-world problems.
• By starting the BEng Transfer Program at a smaller institution, students get individualized attention and support from experienced faculty, which is critical for success.
• CBU is home to the newest Engineering Department in Nova Scotia, and second in size only to Dalhousie University. CBU is also one of the few Associated Universities to offer the first two years of all eight engineering disciplines.

Every business depends on key marketing decisions, from branding to advertising, to help drive revenue and increase market share. At Cape Breton University, we provide a comprehensive approach using modern facilities and approachable faculty who have real experience in the marketing world. You will learn the skills needed to connect with consumers and solve marketing problems that businesses face every day.

At CBU, you’ll learn about ways to make business decisions with the use of simulations and case studies. Learn about the role various stakeholders play in an organization’s marketing decisions, while immersed in a friendly culture that inspires creativity and communication.

What skills will I gain from this program?

• Critical marketing skills
• Strategic development skills
• Data collection and analysis
• Analysis of consumer behaviour

Why study at CBU?

• When it comes to helping a business achieve clarity in marketing communication and strategic planning, a perspective makes all the difference. to visit in the world as rated by Travel + Leisure Magazine, not many places offer the incredible benefits of studying in a place like Cape Breton Island.
• Our marketing program is taught by professors who have connected with the local business community to bring real-life marketing situations into the classroom. With modern facilities, and accessible, engaged faculty, students at CBU have the opportunity to gain a well-rounded learning experience every single day. You will learn how to use strategic marketing skills to analyze the market and develop marketing plans, all in the spirit of helping local, national, and international businesses attract customers and drive sales.

Experiential Learning Opportunities

• Co-op internship option
• Local business engagement
• Analyze actual marketing plans

Hospitality is an important part of our Cape Breton culture. At CBU, our Bachelor of Hospitality and Tourism Management (BHTM) degree is a three-year program that combines tourism and hospitality, business education and the opportunity to augment a specialty area with elective courses. This blended approach to the program, in conjunction with two paid internships, prepares students for a position in this multifaceted industry.

From event planning and management, to service training and hands-on learning, this program provides students with the opportunity to get up close and personal. Discover how small details make every guest feel special, and how unforgettable moments are brought to life every single day. Here, the skills you learn truly impact real lives and influence real experiences.

With results-oriented courses that explore destination marketing, international travel, and event management, it’s no wonder students from more than 40 countries come to Cape Breton Island to learn what they need to succeed in the hospitality industry. Careers in tourism, hotel management, food and beverage, and much more are easy to envision when you spend time living and learning in one of Canada’s most popular tourist destinations.

One look at island life and it becomes clear: CBU is a special place that is focused and determined to make the world a better place. The passion for innovation and collaboration runs deep in our history and fuels our future.

The engineering transfer program is offered at CBU on an associate basis with Dalhousie University. CBU is one of the few Associated Universities to offer the first two years of all seven engineering disciplines. These include civil, environmental, mineral resource, electrical, industrial, mechanical and chemical engineering. We deliver the first two years of the four-year Bachelor of Engineering program.

The first year of the program is common for all seven discipline options. At the end of the first year, you must make a decision on a specialty. Application is made at this time to both CBU and Dalhousie for a seat in the particular discipline of choice.

During year two, you will be registered at both CBU and Dalhousie University.

Students can also combine a BSc in either chemistry or mathematics with the Engineering Diploma. This program requires a third year of study at CBU to complete the BSc, followed by two years at Dalhousie University to complete the BEng.

What skills will I gain from this program?

• Reduce complex problems using appropriate assumptions.
• Identify appropriate engineering tools for real-world problems.
• Learn to plan for safety and sustainability issues.
• Explain interactions between technical systems in various contexts.
• Become an effective leader and team member.

Why study at CBU?

• Our friendly, welcoming, respectful community helps engineering students connect solutions with real-world problems.
• By starting the BEng Transfer Program at a smaller institution, students get individualized attention and support from experienced faculty, which is critical for success.
• CBU is home to the newest Engineering Department in Nova Scotia, and second in size only to Dalhousie University. CBU is also one of the few Associated Universities to offer the first two years of all eight engineering disciplines.

The English language is central to the way billions of people work, play, think and relate to one another. The English program at CBU teaches you to become an expert user of the language, understanding the history and applications in all its linguistically splendid detail and nuance.

A big part of that nuance will come from understanding humanity’s richest literary tradition, engaging with some of the world’s most profound imaginations.

Studying English means learning to think not just critically, but curiously and courageously. It’s opening your eyes to cutting-edge ideas while also being skeptical and analytical.

Studying English means coming to understand the way our language shapes us, our societies and even our physical environment. We study how we can use language – and its texts – to understand our past, to remake ourselves and to understand the world around us.

What skills will I gain from this program?

• Deep critical interpretation skills
• Cultural literacy
• Advanced writing skills
• In-depth knowledge of literary texts and forms
• Flexible and adaptable research skills

Why study at CBU?

• Study English in a place where inspiration comes naturally. Our English faculty are active scholars with an impressive record of publications and awards. CBU faculty care deeply about inspiring their students to become engaged readers, brave writers and thoughtful citizens.
• We will be here from your first day as a student to your first day as a graduate and beyond, guiding you through the program and helping you engage with the intricacies of scholarship. We’ll be here to help you craft a brilliant writing style and hone unparalleled research skills. We’ll be here to help you sharpen your critical prose, to make your creative writing sing, and even to help you make a splash at your first academic conference.

From the soothing sounds of our singing shores, to the everlasting beat of our vibrant culture, Cape Breton holds music close to its heart.

Build your skills for a solid foundation in music and carve your own path, wherever the tempo takes you. Our BACS music major is the only undergraduate program in Canada to focus on traditional and tradition-based popular music, with particular emphasis on Cape Breton’s rich music traditions.

Students learn about music career options, develop a career network and gain valuable work experience through courses such as Understanding the Music Industry, and Arts Entrepreneurship, as well as our Archival Internship and work placements.

Our music offerings focus on three broad areas: Atlantic Canadian cultures and traditions; popular music; and the study of global traditions (e.g., West African, Eastern European, etc.) through ethnomusicology and folklore approaches.

In all of our program options, we offer a variety of courses, including courses in performance, music theory and composition, genre surveys and histories, issues (e.g., protest, cultural tourism), research methods and business.
What skills will I gain from this program?

• Awareness and appreciation of music from around the world
• Greater understanding of music’s roles and functions in society
• Ability to analyze music
• Improved ability to perform
• Knowledge of the music industry

Why study at CBU?
As a music student at CBU, you’ll be excited to learn some of Cape Breton’s best-known traditional musicians teach here, including popular local artists such as Kyle MacNeil of the Barra MacNeils. That means you’ll be taught by experienced instructors who are both accessible and approachable, which makes a major difference in the intricate world of music.

Our music program uniquely ties together liberal arts courses, performance classes, work placements and community learning to create a truly well-rounded experience. Join students from around the world in one of the most breathtaking locations on the planet, in harmony, as you realize your true potential in music.

Cape Breton is known for its musical traditions. As one of the most celebrated cultural regions in the country, we offer courses that introduce students to a variety of music. From local traditions to music from around the world, popular music to classical music, students learn to analyze the music they love in order to see how it works.