The Bachelor of Arts in Community Studies (BACS) in Music at Cape Breton University is a flexible and innovative program that blends academic specialization, applied learning, and focused study across diverse areas, while grounding students in Cape Breton’s vibrant musical traditions. As the only undergraduate program in Canada to emphasize traditional and tradition based popular music, it offers a unique focus on Atlantic Canadian cultures, popular music, and global traditions studied through ethnomusicology and folklore. Students build strong foundations in performance, theory, and composition while exploring career pathways through courses such as Understanding the Music Industry, Arts Entrepreneurship, and experiential opportunities like archival internships and work placements. With offerings that include genre surveys, histories, cultural issues such as protest music and cultural tourism, research methods, and business, the program ties together liberal arts courses, performance classes, work placements, and community.
Career Path
Graduate careers include Professional Musician / Performer, Composer/Songwriter, Music Producer / Arranger, Recording Artist, Conductor / Ensemble Leader, Music Teacher (schools, private instruction, or higher education with further study), Ethnomusicologist/Folklorist, Music Historian/Archivist, Curriculum Developer (arts and culture), Researcher in global music tradition, Cultural Program Coordinator, Community Arts Facilitator, Festival Organizer / Event Manager, Heritage Interpreter (living history sites, museums), Arts Outreach Specialist, Music Industry Professional (management, publishing, distribution), Arts Entrepreneurship / Creative Startups, Marketing and Promotion Specialist (music and cultural industries).
Post Study Work Visa availability – YES
We’ve simplified the admission process to help you get started quickly and easily. You can find all requirements for admission to Cape Breton University below;
1. WASSCE/A level Certificate (80% Pass in Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
2. School Transcript
3. Passport
4. Recommendation Letter
5. Statement of Purpose
6. CV
Cape Breton University will accept, for the purposes of meeting the English proficiency requirement, evidence of English study within a 12‑year education system where English is designated as the primary and official language and the principal language of instruction. For applicants who do not yet meet the English language requirement, there are two pathways to achieve the necessary level:
Pre‑sessional English Programme; Students may successfully complete a preparatory English programme offered by the university before beginning their academic course. Recognized English Proficiency Tests; Students may submit one of the following minimum scores prior to the start of their program: IELTS: 6.5 overall band score (or equivalent), TOEFL or PTE: Score of 60, Duolingo English Test: Score of 120.
