Program Overview

Environmental Studies Program Overview

The Environmental Studies program at Cape Breton University provides students with the skills needed to thrive in the real world. The program is located in Cape Breton, one of the most biodiverse places on earth, offering a unique ecosystem with untouched elements on land, sea, and air. Through this program, students gain an understanding of the fundamental sciences, including biology, chemistry, and geology, as well as engineering principles with a focus on the environment.

Program Types and Fields of Study

• Program Types: Bachelor of Engineering Technology (BET)
• Fields of Study: Engineering & Technology, Sustainability

Admission Requirements

General Requirements for High School Graduates

• English 12 (academic or advanced)
• Math 12 (academic or advanced)
• 2 Science 12 level (chemistry recommended)
• 1 additional grade 12 academic or advanced level course
• See CBU’s English Language Requirements

General Transfer Student Requirements

• In order to transfer to CBU, students must be in good academic standing at their current/previous institution.
• Students must meet the general admissions requirements (or the post-secondary equivalent) for the program.
• To see if an institution is an articulation partner, please view the articulation agreements page.

Program Details

Areas of Study and Sample Courses

• Within Bachelor of Engineering Technology
• Environmental Studies Courses
• Sample Course Schedule: BET, Environmental Studies (Year 1)

Skills Gained

• Understand the interconnectedness of physical, chemical, and biological processes in natural and built environments.
• Balance environmental sustainability with economic development and technological progress.
• Perform contaminated site assessments.
• Perform environmental impact assessments.
• Measure water, soil, and air quality and determine appropriate pollution control and treatment strategies.

Possible Career Paths

• Environmental field technician
• Government clerk
• Environmental consultant
• Environmental remediation professional
• Water/wastewater treatment professional

Faculty and Staff

The Engineering department at Cape Breton University has a diverse range of faculty and staff, including instructors, assistant professors, and associate deans. Some notable faculty members include:

• Paula Condon, Instructor, Engineering
• Sean MacNeil, Instructor, Engineering
• Tanya MacDonald, Department of Engineering
• Wei Shang, Department of Engineering
• Allison Mackie, Assistant Professor, Department of Engineering
• Bill Robinson, Associate Dean of Engineering

Research and Events

Cape Breton University is involved in various research initiatives and events, including:

• Early Detection Research at CBU Could Transform Skin Cancer Screening
• From Student to Franchise Owner: How Mira Built Her Dream Career on a CBU Foundation
• A Partnership Aimed at Improving Mental Health: CBU and Nova Scotia Health
• Newly Funded Climate Literacy Research Calls on Teachers to Participate in National Networked Classroom

About Cape Breton University

Cape Breton University is located in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaw People. The university offers a range of programs and services, including research initiatives, academic programs, and community engagement.