Heritage and Culture — Concentration in Ethnomusicology

The Bachelor of Arts in Heritage and Culture with a Concentration in Ethnomusicology at Cape Breton University offers students a comprehensive exploration of the diverse musical traditions and cultural practices that shape communities around the world. This program is designed for students passionate about understanding the social, historical, and cultural contexts of music and their role in fostering cultural identity and preserving intangible heritage. Throughout the program, students engage in interdisciplinary coursework that combines musicology, anthropology, history, and cultural studies, providing a well-rounded education in ethnomusicology. They will examine various musical genres, performance practices, and oral traditions, learning how these elements function within different societies and how they are transmitted across generations. The curriculum emphasizes experiential learning, encouraging students to participate in fieldwork, recordings, and community projects to gain firsthand insights into living musical traditions. Students also explore topics such as music and identity, the role of music in rituals and ceremonies, and the impact of globalization on traditional music forms. The program aims to develop critical thinking, research skills, and cultural sensitivity, preparing graduates for careers in cultural preservation, musicology, community development, education, or further academic study. With access to the rich musical heritage of Cape Breton and beyond, students benefit from a vibrant learning environment fostered by experienced faculty and community partnerships. Graduates of this program are equipped to contribute meaningfully to the safeguarding and promotion of cultural heritage through music and related cultural expressions, making a significant impact in academic, community, and policy contexts.

The Heritage and Culture — Concentration in Ethnomusicology program at Cape Breton University offers students an in-depth exploration of the diverse musical traditions and cultural expressions from around the world, with a special emphasis on Atlantic Canadian, Indigenous, and Gaelic musical heritages. This program is designed to equip students with a multidisciplinary understanding of music as a vital component of cultural identity and social history. Throughout the coursework, students will investigate the history, social significance, and performance practices of various musical traditions, including folk music, indigenous musics, and diasporic genres. The program combines theoretical studies with practical applications, encouraging students to engage in field research, ethnographic methods, and community collaborations, fostering a hands-on approach to ethnomusicological inquiry. Students will have the opportunity to analyze sound recordings, participate in local and regional music performances, and develop their skills in music analysis, cultural interpretation, and ethnographic documentation. Courses cover topics such as music and identity, cultural preservation, music and social change, and the role of music within community settings. The program also emphasizes interdisciplinary perspectives, integrating history, anthropology, and cultural studies to provide a comprehensive understanding of music's role in shaping cultural landscapes. Graduates of this concentration will be prepared for careers in cultural preservation, musicology, community development, or further academic research. They will gain valuable skills in ethnographic research, cultural analysis, and community engagement, making them well-equipped to work in museums, cultural organizations, educational institutions, or as independent researchers and artists. The Heritage and Culture — Concentration in Ethnomusicology at Cape Breton University is ideal for students passionate about music, culture, and community, seeking to make meaningful contributions to the preservation and celebration of diverse musical traditions.

Program Requirements for Heritage and Culture — Concentration in Ethnomusicology at Cape Breton University

To successfully complete the Bachelor of Arts degree with a concentration in Ethnomusicology within the Heritage and Culture program at Cape Breton University, students are typically required to fulfill a combination of core courses, electives, and a capstone project. The core curriculum includes foundational courses in heritage studies, intercultural communication, and musicology, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of ethnomusicological principles, cultural heritage preservation, and the social contexts of music. Students are expected to engage in theoretical and practical coursework that explores the diverse musical traditions of Nova Scotia, Indigenous communities, and other cultural groups. Elective courses allow students to specialize further in areas such as music technology, ethnographic fieldwork methods, and language studies pertinent to their research interests. As part of their degree requirements, students participate in experiential learning through internships, community projects, or field research, which affords real-world applications of ethnomusicological techniques. A significant component involves a culminating research project or thesis, demonstrating mastery of ethnomusicological methods, critical analysis, and original contribution to the field. Additionally, students may be required to attend seminars, workshops, and guest lectures to enhance their understanding of current issues in heritage and culture preservation. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, combining insights from anthropology, history, musicology, and cultural studies to prepare graduates for careers in academia, cultural preservation organizations, museums, or community arts initiatives. Overall, students must meet both the general graduation requirements of a Bachelor of Arts degree and all specific program mandates related to coursework, fieldwork, and project work to attain their degree with a focus on ethnomusicology.

The Heritage and Culture — Concentration in Ethnomusicology program at Cape Breton University offers various financing options to support students throughout their studies. Tuition fees are structured according to the program level and residency status, with domestic students benefiting from more affordable rates compared to international students. The university encourages prospective students to explore multiple sources of funding, including government grants, scholarships, bursaries, and external funding opportunities. Cape Breton University provides several merit-based scholarships for students demonstrating academic excellence, leadership qualities, and community involvement. Additionally, there are need-based bursaries aimed at supporting students who require financial assistance to pursue their education.

Students are advised to apply early for scholarships and bursaries, as awards are limited and competitive. The university also participates in federal and provincial financial aid programs, which provide loans and grants to eligible students. International students are encouraged to explore alternative funding sources, such as private scholarships, sponsorships, and external organizations that support international education. Work-study programs and part-time employment opportunities on campus are also available, allowing students to earn income while gaining valuable work experience.

Cape Breton University’s financial aid office provides comprehensive guidance and resources to help students identify suitable funding options and complete the necessary application procedures. Students are recommended to start exploring financing options well in advance of the academic year start date to ensure timely preparation and to maximize their potential funding. Overall, the university aims to make higher education accessible and affordable for all students enrolled in the Heritage and Culture — Concentration in Ethnomusicology program, recognizing the importance of cultural preservation and academic excellence.

Heritage and Culture — Concentration in Ethnomusicology at Cape Breton University offers students a comprehensive exploration of the traditional music, cultural expressions, and intangible heritage of local and global communities. The program focuses on understanding the role of music within cultural contexts, examining its historical development, social significance, and preservation strategies. Students engage in both theoretical studies and practical activities, including fieldwork, recordings, and participation in community events, which enable them to develop a deep appreciation of ethnomusicological practices.

The curriculum combines courses in cultural anthropology, musicology, history, and community engagement, aiming to provide a multidisciplinary perspective on heritage preservation and cultural sustainability. Students learn methodologies for documenting and analyzing musical practices, interviewing community members, and using technology for archiving and disseminating cultural expressions. The program encourages active participation in local heritage initiatives and collaborations with Indigenous communities and cultural organizations, fostering a strong connection between academic learning and real-world applications.

Graduates of the program are equipped to pursue careers in cultural heritage management, museum curation, community development, archival work, or further academic research in ethnomusicology. The program emphasizes experiential learning, critical thinking, and cultural sensitivity, preparing students to contribute meaningfully to the preservation and promotion of diverse musical traditions. With its focus on both local Cape Breton traditions and global musical heritage, students can expect an education that balances academic rigor with cultural engagement, community involvement, and opportunities for innovative research.