Cape Breton University (CBU), located in Sydney Nova Scotia, was established in 1974 and was known as the College of Cape Breton. In 1982, it changed its name to the University College of Cape Breton and finally became Cape Breton University in 2005. This was the result of an attempt to create an institution of higher learning by the provincial government. With a student population of over 3,500, Cape Breton University has much to offer. With over 50 programs, including degrees, diplomas, and certificates, from an undergraduate to graduate level, the University offers programs from the School of Arts and Community Studies, Business, Education, Health and Wellness, and Science and Technology.

Cape Breton University tries to maintain its student per teacher ratio low in order to enhance the quality of learning and to increase the educational experience. In 2004, CBU expanded a part of its campus to Cairo, Egypt for Egyptian students. The new campus allows students to earn credit for up to 2 years before transferring over to Canada to finish their remaining degree. Also the University was ranked second by MacLean's in the new 'The University Graduate Survey' due to overall satisfaction and educational experience.