Cape Breton University and The Gaelic College Partner to Deliver First-Year Hospitality & Tourism Program at Beinn Mhàbu

Cape Breton University (CBU) and Colaisde na Gàidhlig/The Gaelic College are pleased to announce a new collaboration to offer the first year of the Bachelor of Hospitality and Tourism Management (BHTM) degree at the Beinn Mhàbu campus, beginning in September 2026. Through this partnership, students will have the unique opportunity to complete their first year of studies at the culturally rich Beinn Mhàbu campus in Mabou, before transitioning to the CBU campus for the remainder of their degree.

“This partnership represents a significant step in expanding the reach of the Shannon School of Business while providing students studying Hospitality and Tourism with immersive and unique educational experiences,” said David C. Dingwall, President and Vice-Chancellor of Cape Breton University. “By collaborating with The Gaelic College, we are able to offer a distinctive first-year experience at Beinn Mhàbu that upholds the high academic standards of CBU while rooting students’ education in the rich culture and hospitality of the Island.”

The program will be delivered by the Shannon School of Business (SSOB) in collaboration with The Gaelic College. Under the agreement, CBU faculty or appropriately approved educators will deliver the coursework on-site at Beinn Mhàbu. Students will receive academic advising from CBU faculty to help ensure a seamless integration into their second year of study at the main CBU campus.

“We are thrilled to welcome the next generation of hospitality leaders to Beinn Mhàbu,” said Rodney MacDonald, President of The Gaelic College. “This agreement allows us to showcase our beautiful campus and rich Gaelic culture to students as they begin their academic journey. We look forward to working closely with CBU to ensure a culturally vibrant and supportive learning environment for this incoming class.”

The curriculum for the first year at Beinn Mhàbu includes foundational courses on topics such as Food Theory and Nutrition, Restaurant Operation and Service and Tourism. Reflecting the unique setting of the campus, students will also complete introductory Gaelic Language courses. In addition to coursework, students will also participate in an integrated industry internship with Inverness County tourism and hospitality partners, ensuring that they gain practical experience within the local community.

To learn more and apply, visit www.cbu.ca/bhtm