Program Overview

Program Overview

The Gaelic Language and Cultural Sustainability program is designed to support the maintenance and revitalization of Gaelic traditions, aiming to empower future leaders and stewards of this historic culture. The program seeks to strengthen relationships crucial for language revitalization and cultural sustainability, including Cape Breton University's partnership with Colaisde na Gàidhlig (the Gaelic College), while offering experiential learning opportunities to study in the only region outside Scotland where Gaelic remains a community language.

Admission Requirements

• General Requirements for High School Graduates:
  • See Cape Breton University's English Language Requirements.
• Transfer Student Requirements:
  • In order to transfer to Cape Breton University, you must be in good academic standing at your current/previous institution.
  • You must meet the general admissions requirements (or the post-secondary equivalent) for the program.
  • To see if your institution is an articulation partner, please view Cape Breton University's articulation agreements page.

Program Types

• The Gaelic Language and Cultural Sustainability program is offered as a major, comprised of 48 credits within the Bachelor of Arts Community Studies degree.
• Alternatively, there are options for certificates in Gaelic Language and/or Cultural Sustainability, totaling 30 credits each.

Fields of Study

• Arts, Social Sciences & Culture

Program Details

• Enrolment for this program commences in Fall 2024.
• The program offers students an opportunity to immerse themselves in Gaelic language and culture, complemented with courses in research methods, language revitalization, language teaching and learning, and resilient communities.

Tuition and Fees

• Details on tuition and fees are available through Cape Breton University's official channels.

Scholarships and Bursaries

• Information on scholarships and bursaries can be found through Cape Breton University's student finance resources.

Experiential Learning Programs

• The program provides hands-on experience and the ability for students to engage deeply with the Gaelic community through established partnerships.

Sample Courses and Resources

• Undergraduate Courses:
  • Details on specific courses are available through Cape Breton University's course catalogue.

Why Study at Cape Breton University?

Studying Gaelic Language at Cape Breton University offers a unique and enriching learning experience, with a deep connection to Gaelic culture through study, activities, and traditions. The university provides students with the option for comprehensive and flexible study, taught by faculty who are passionate about revitalizing and maintaining the Gaelic Language.

Skills Gained

• Language Proficiency: Gaelic reading, writing, speaking, and aural comprehension
• Cultural Production and Expression: develop a deep understanding of the links between Gaelic culture, traditions, and history
• Researching Gaelic Language and Culture: acquire qualitative research and dissemination strengths such as archival and ethnographic skills
• Language Revitalization and Leadership: recognize the indicators of an endangered language and best practices for language revitalization
• Inclusiveness and Reconciliation: gain critical awareness of the legacies of colonialism for Indigenous peoples and for settlers
• Ability to engage and appreciate diverse cultural perspectives
• Develop and support strategic cultural sustainability initiatives
• Build and maintain relationships with cultural organizations and community groups
• Advocate and promote language preservation

Possible Career Paths

• Teacher / Educator
• Government Relations
• Employment at Grassroots Institutions
• Historian
• Archivist
• Museum professional
• Social Work
• Managerial and Administrative roles in levels of government
• Employment in Tourism and Culture Industries
• Journalism

Faculty and Staff

• Heather Sparling: Canada Research Chair in Musical Traditions and Professor of Ethnomusicology
• Joseph Parish: Department of L'nu, Political and Social Studies
• View all faculty and staff profiles for more information on their expertise and research areas.