Mabou will welcome university students this fall
If you are headed to post-secondary school this fall, you can take your courses on the west coast of Cape Breton Island.
The first year foundation program will be available at Beinn Mhàbu, the Mabou campus of Colaisde na Gàidhlig.
In partnership with Cape Breton University, this fresh, new program delivers an innovative, broad-based, foundation year which meets first year requirements for arts students at CBU.
Delivered through the language of English, students will gain a deep understanding of Gaelic culture by focusing on key areas from the ancient past to present day.
This is an inter-disciplinary program that dives into the depth of culture to provide a better understanding of the wider world and develop well-honed practical skills such as critical-thinking, research, writing, debating, self-directed learning and learning in a group setting.
Kenneth MacKenzie, Vice President of Beinn Mhàbu and Director of Education for Colaisde na Gàidhlig says this is an exciting opportunity in so many ways.
"It’s a fresh take on post-secondary education; in a rural setting, through a cultural lens, all while developing high level skills that are vital to each of us, no matter where our paths may take us.
We want to create global servants, grounded in who they are as Gaels.
Beinn Mhàbu is excited to continue the long history of education here at the former St. Joseph’s Convent and Renewal Centre, as well as building on our relationship with Cape Breton University.
Our Gaelic Foundations program will provide a framework for future programming opportunities here at Beinn Mhàbu."
How does this program work?
It is a foundational, first year, accredited university program delivered through English and focused on Gaelic culture.
There are four courses of six weeks each, offered consecutively from September to April with a week’s break between each. In parallel, students will complete a first year Gaelic language program running through the year from September to April. In total, students will receive 30 credit hours.
6-week courses are delivered in four lectures through the week (Monday to Thursday) with a tutorial session each afternoon designed to discuss themes and ideas arising in lectures and assigned readings.
Students will be housed at Beinn Mhàbu, a newly renovated campus of Colaisde na Gàidhlig in Mabou, Nova Scotia.
Students can continue in the BA or BACS program at CBU or seek transfer credits to another university.
Rodney MacDonald, President of Colaisde na Gàidhlig says the courses will be in English but will have Gaelic language content built in.
"Each course travels through time, from pre-history through to present day.
This program is ideal for those seeking a richer learning experience, eager for self-growth and strong bonds with peers and community."
MacDonald says Mabou is the perfect community to get a start on your education.
"As a person that grew up here, I wish this opportunity was available to me for my post-secondary education.
Mabou is full of life and we can't wait to welcome students to Beinn Mhàbu so they can experience what the community has to offer.
If you want to learn more about what Beinn Mhàbu has to offer you can click here.