Programs

Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science Degrees

Mount Saint Vincent University (MSVU) offers a range of Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees designed to provide students with specialized education and a foundation for future careers. Located in Halifax, Nova Scotia, these programs cater to diverse interests, from the sciences and business to humanities and social sciences.

Bachelor of Arts in Cultural Studies

The Bachelor of Arts in Cultural Studies at MSVU is a four-year program designed to help you explore how culture is shaped by and, in turn, shapes society. You will critically examine the meaning of art and culture, focusing on themes like power, social justice, and the socio-political and economic factors influencing cultural production. The program allows you to delve into diverse areas such as film, music, art, visual culture, and critical theory, drawing connections between popular culture, media, and various academic disciplines.

Bachelor of Arts in French

Bachelor of Arts in History

The History program at Mount Saint Vincent University (MSVU) encourages students to understand the present by examining how people have shaped events and societies in the past. The program explores all facets of recorded human experience, including social relations, cultural expressions, political events, and economic activities, to understand the evolution of human thoughts, actions, and habits over time. Students can choose from various program options, including a major, combined major, minor, concentration, or an honours degree. The university also offers an internship program to provide practical, real-world experience in corporate, government, or non-profit sectors.

Bachelor of Arts in Modern Languages

Bachelor of Business Administration

The Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) program at Mount Saint Vincent University provides a comprehensive foundation in key business areas including accounting, finance, management, and marketing. It is designed to equip students with essential leadership skills, preparing them for diverse career paths in entrepreneurship, large corporations, small businesses, and non-profit organizations. The program offers flexibility through online learning options and the possibility of earning transfer credits for prior learning experiences, potentially shortening the time to degree completion. An international option allows students to study abroad for a semester at a partner university.

Bachelor of Education (Elementary/Secondary)

The Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) program at Mount Saint Vincent University equips you with the skills, knowledge, and professional dispositions necessary for a career in education. You will explore diverse teaching and learning methods, emphasizing reflective practice and professionalism to prepare you for various educational settings. The program offers two specialization options: Elementary, focusing on young learners and core curriculum in subjects like math, language arts, and science; and Secondary, which delves into contemporary culture and critical thinking within two chosen disciplines such as social studies, English, mathematics, science, or French. Both program options are designed to foster your development as a scholar and a highly qualified professional with leadership potential. The curriculum is structured over two years, requiring 10 units of study. Graduates are eligible for certification by the Nova Scotia Department of Education, and this certification is recognized across Canada, though some jurisdictions may require additional coursework. The program also includes extensive practicum experiences, offering up to 24 weeks in classroom settings to apply theoretical knowledge practically.

Bachelor of Education (Secondary)

Bachelor of Public Relations

The Bachelor of Public Relations (BPR) is a four-year undergraduate degree designed to prepare students for strategic leadership roles in the public relations field. This program, recognized as a leading PR degree in Canada, balances theoretical knowledge with practical application, focusing on relationship management, ethical decision-making, and communication planning. Students will develop essential skills in content creation, digital storytelling, multimedia design, writing, public speaking, research, and campaign management. The BPR offers flexible delivery options, including in-person and fully online streams, and incorporates significant hands-on experience through its renowned co-operative education program, which can include up to three paid work terms. The BPR emphasizes public relations as a core organizational function. Graduates are equipped with the confidence and competence needed to excel in this high-demand career specialty, combining academic learning with valuable industry experience.

Bachelor of Science (BSc)

The Bachelor of Science (BSc) at Mount Saint Vincent University offers a comprehensive science education with a focus on individual attention and hands-on learning. Small class sizes and modern facilities, including newly renovated teaching labs, provide students with the resources to develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills. The program is designed to prepare graduates for diverse careers in today's technical world, with opportunities to apply classroom knowledge through practical experience. Academic advisors are available to support students in planning their course selection and academic journey from the start of their studies.

Bachelor of Science in Statistics

Biology BSc

The Biology program at Mount Saint Vincent University offers a comprehensive study of life, from microscopic organisms to complex plants and animals. You will delve into fundamental concepts such as genetics, cellular and molecular biology, morphology, physiology, development, and ecology. The program emphasizes analytical and scientific thinking, problem-solving, and data analysis, preparing you for various scientific careers. You'll benefit from small class sizes, fostering strong relationships with faculty and peers, and have access to modern laboratory facilities for research. The program leads to a Bachelor of Science (BSc) or BSc Honours degree over four years. It can also be pursued as a combined major, concentration, or minor. In addition to core biology subjects, you will develop a solid foundation in natural sciences like chemistry and physics, alongside essential transferable skills in data summarization and communication through written reports and presentations.

Canadian Studies

The Canadian Studies program at Mount Saint Vincent University offers an interdisciplinary exploration of Canadian culture and society, examining its past, present, and future. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of Canada's values, politics, history, art, economics, and literature. The program encourages debate and critical thinking on diverse topics, from historical art movements to contemporary issues like First Nations Governance and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. This program aims to inspire students to actively participate in shaping Canada's future.

Chemistry

Chemistry is the scientific study of matter, its composition, the transformations it undergoes, and the associated energy changes. At Mount Saint Vincent University, the Department of Chemistry offers programs designed to challenge students to be both analytical and creative. With small class sizes and opportunities for undergraduate research, students are well-prepared for their future academic and professional paths. The department offers various degree options, including Honours, Major, Combined Major, Concentration, and a Minor in Physics.

Child and Youth Study

The Child and Youth Study program at Mount Saint Vincent University is the only one of its kind in Atlantic Canada, offering a university-level education focused on child and youth development. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, covering areas such as child and youth work, early childhood education, and early intervention and inclusive development. With an emphasis on experiential learning, students benefit from four supervised practicum placements, allowing them to gain hands-on experience in real-world settings. The program is delivered with small class sizes, encouraging active classroom engagement and providing a supportive learning environment. Courses are accessible through Moodle/Collaborate. This degree prepares graduates for leadership roles in fields like Early Childhood Education (ECE) and Child and Youth care. It also serves as a strong foundation for further studies in related disciplines such as Child and Youth Study, Education, Speech Language Pathology, Child Life, and Social Work.

Child and Youth Study (MA and MCYS)

Mount Saint Vincent University offers two Master's programs in Child and Youth Study: a thesis-based Master of Arts (MA) and a non-thesis Master of Child and Youth Study (MCYS). Both programs explore critical issues affecting children and youth, preparing students for roles as leaders, researchers, educators, and professionals in the field. Learning is designed to be flexible, with most courses offered in the evenings, and both full-time and part-time study options are available. Currently, both programs are delivered exclusively on campus.

Communication Major

The Communication Major is a multidisciplinary program designed for students interested in an undergraduate degree in Communication. It provides a strong foundation in communication and media theory, research, and ethics. The program analyzes communication within complex social, political, and cultural environments. It is well-suited for those interested in media literacy, interpersonal, small group, and organizational communication, as well as the sociopolitical aspects of communication in today's world. Students will gain a broad understanding of communication theory, its contextual nature in various forms, and the processes that define human communication, fostering an appreciation for ethical communication practices.

Computer Science

Computer Science is a dynamic field with applications across many Arts and Science disciplines. In today's world, professionals often need computer knowledge, whether for using computers as a tool or integrating them into their roles. The field is constantly evolving with new areas emerging annually. Many students pursue computer courses to gain skills and concepts applicable to practical challenges within their own chosen disciplines.

Doctor of Psychology in School and Child Clinical Psychology

Mount Saint Vincent University (MSVU) is developing a new Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) program focused on School and Child Clinical Psychology. This program is designed to train psychologists who will specialize in providing youth-focused mental health services. The curriculum will combine three years of coursework and supervised practice with a fourth year of full-time residency. Graduates will be prepared to work in school, health, and community settings, addressing the critical need for child and adolescent mental health care. The program is expected to welcome its first students in September 2026.

Economics

Economics is the study of how individuals, businesses, and governments make decisions when faced with limited resources. Understanding economics helps in making better choices in various aspects of life, from personal finance to public policy. Its principles are crucial for managing scarcity, a fundamental constraint in all aspects of society and the environment. An economics education is valuable across a wide range of fields, as decision-making is a core component of nearly every profession. This makes economics a versatile discipline for students aiming for diverse career paths.

English Department - Bachelor of Arts

Mount Saint Vincent University offers a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in English, located in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The program emphasizes small class sizes, fostering close interaction with innovative teachers and researchers. You'll explore various aspects of literature and language with faculty dedicated to diverse areas of study, from medieval languages to 20th-century war literature.

Family Science

The Family Science program at Mount Saint Vincent University offers a comprehensive study of family dynamics and development, addressing contemporary issues affecting families in an increasingly complex society. You will gain an understanding of the trends, challenges, and advancements within health and human service delivery systems and their supporting disciplines. The program is designed to enhance your comprehension of the field and develop your ability to work in professional settings where knowledge of family studies or aging is crucial. A diverse student body and flexible learning environment, incorporating lectures and group discussions, enrich the educational experience, allowing students to learn from varied life experiences and perspectives.