Summary
The BASc (Bachelor of Applied Science) is a stand‑alone three‑year degree at Acadia. It is not equivalent to a B.Eng., but it strengthens resumes, provides broader academic experience, and can be used to apply for programs like the B.Ed. The CAS (Certificate of Applied Science) represents the first two years of the B.Eng. pathway, completed at Acadia before transferring to Dalhousie. About 60% of students combine BASc and CAS, completing both in three years.
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Here’s how the two programs differ:
🎓 BASc (Bachelor of Applied Science):
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A three‑year stand‑alone degree at Acadia
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Not the same as a B.Eng., but looks strong on a resume
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Provides broader experience in other fields
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Can be used to apply for the Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) program
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Often taken in combination with CAS
📜 CAS (Certificate of Applied Science):
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Represents the first two years of the four‑year B.Eng. degree
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Students complete two years at Acadia, then transfer to Dalhousie University for years three and four
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Leads to an accredited B.Eng. degree
📊 Combined Pathway:
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About 60% of Engineering students complete both BASc and CAS
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Both can be finished in three years
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Offers maximum flexibility: a bachelor’s credential from Acadia plus transfer eligibility for B.Eng.
✅ In short: BASc = Acadia degree with breadth. CAS = transfer pathway to Dalhousie’s B.Eng. Many students do both.
📘 Helpful Definitions:
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BASc: Bachelor of Applied Science, a three‑year Acadia degree
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CAS: Certificate of Applied Science, the first two years of the B.Eng. pathway
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B.Eng.: Bachelor of Engineering, an accredited professional engineering degree completed at Dalhousie
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