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The rich culture and long history of the Mi’kmaq thrives today on Cape Breton Island and at CBU. From the ancient Mi’kmaw language to modern Mi’kmaw current events, you’ll become immersed in a program that focuses on teaching the true ways of Canada’s First Nations people.

The various Mi’kmaq Studies courses teach students how to read and write in Mi’kmaq, how the Canadian Indian Act works, details of First Nation governance and much more. This comprehensive area of study examines multiple aspects of the Mi’kmaq, discussed within a framework of the current First Nations reality – not only within Canada, but on a broader scale, globally.

At CBU, the Mi’kmaq Studies courses focus on two major themes of study: Mi’kmaw language and culture; and Mi’kmaw politics, history and governance. These courses are designed to provide a solid foundation for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous students alike.

Why study at CBU?

Cape Breton University (CBU) is home to Unama’ki College which focuses on the academic study, research and teaching of Mi’kmaw First Nation’s history, culture, language, governance, spirituality and science. Courses in Mi’kmaq Studies have been offered at CBU for more than 30 years.

Unama’ki College is home to the Mi’kmaq Resource Centre (MRC) which contains an impressive collection of secondary documents on all aspects of the Mi’kmaq, as well as related academic subjects. Unama’ki College also has two Mi’kmaw Elders in Residence whose role is to assist all students.

More than 200 Indigenous students attend CBU on a yearly basis. Most, but not all, are Mi’kmaq. Courses are open to all students, both Indigenous and non-indigenous.

What skills will I gain from this program?

Written and spoken language skills
Knowledge of Mi’kmaw history and culture
Learn current Mi’kmaw events
Indigenous art and music knowledge

Possible Career Paths

Law
Education
Social work
Government
Print, digital and broadcast media

Experiential Learning Opportunities

Work in the Kji-keptin Alexander Denny L’nui’sultimkeweyo’kuom
Mi’kmaw Language Lab
Mi’kmaw research projects