Bachelor of Arts – Community, Economic and Social Development – General

The Bachelor of Arts in Community Economic and Social Development (CESD) is a unique four-year degree program offered at Algoma University. As the only undergraduate program of its kind in Canada, it provides students with the practical tools and interdisciplinary perspective needed to lead positive social and economic change:

• Interdisciplinary Focus: Integrates core concepts from CESD, social work, sociology, political science, geography, economics, and business administration to address issues in small urban, rural, northern, and First Nations communities.

• Hands-On Experiential Learning: Features extensive practical field placements—a 150-hour placement in Year 3, followed by a 300-hour placement alongside a major research paper/project in Year 4.

• Professional Certifications: Graduates meet the academic requirements for professional certification through both the Economic Developers’ Association of Canada (EDAC) and the Council for the Advancement of Native Development Offices (CANDO).

• Minors & Pathways: Offers optional minors in Environmental Sustainability and Social Justice and Globalization, preparing graduates for public sector, non-profit, co-operative, or graduate-level studies.

Academic Background: Grade 12 / High School Diploma.

Minimum GPA: 50.0%

Minimum Language Test Scores:

• IELTS: 6.0

• TOEFL: 79.0

• PTE: 60.0

• Duolingo: 110

Conditional Admission Options:

• Direct Admission (Pending Scores): Applicants awaiting official language results can apply directly and receive a conditional offer, provided qualifying passing scores are submitted prior to receiving a final offer letter.

• English Pathway Courses: Applicants may satisfy language requirements by completing English language courses prior to beginning their academic program. The required duration depends on the student’s initial proficiency level.

Entrance scholarships for international students at Algoma University are automatically evaluated during admission for undergraduate and post-secondary certificate options:

Chancellor's Award ($5,000 CAD/year, up to $20,000 CAD total): Awarded to high school graduates enrolled full-time (15 credits/term). Requires an A+ average (90–100% OSSD equivalent) and higher language scores (IELTS 7.0 / TOEFL 85 / PTE 65 / Duolingo 125). Renewable for up to 3 additional years with an 80% annual average, 12 credits/term minimum, and no failed courses. (Recipients who transition to Canadian Permanent Residency remain eligible for renewal).

President's Award ($2,500 CAD, one-time): Granted to Ontario Secondary School (OSSD) graduates entering their first year full-time (12 credits/term) with an average of 80%–89.9% across top six Grade 12 U/M courses.

The Dean's Award ($1,000 CAD, one-time): Granted to incoming first-year international students studying full-time (minimum 12 credits/term) holding a minimum B+ academic standing (or equivalent).

Award of Excellence ($500 CAD, one-time): Granted to incoming first-year international students studying full-time (minimum 12 credits/term) holding a minimum B academic standing (or equivalent).