NSCC Sydney Waterfront Campus opens

Outside view of the front entrance of NSCC's new Sydney Waterfront Campus.

NSCC's newest campus, Sydney Waterfront Campus, is located in downtown Sydney. Photo credit: CNS
Sydney Waterfront Campus consists of 4 buildings connected by pedways alongside the Sydney Harbour. Photo credit: CNS
Sydney Waterfront Campus' library features a colourful Mi'kmaq interpretive mural, based on birch bark and its uses. Photo credit: CNS
Many portions of the new campus were built to take advantage of the view adjacent Sydney Harbour, including this student lounge. Photo credit: CNS
This science lab at Sydney Waterfront Campus is fitted with adjustable tables and other features intended to improve accessibility. Photo credit: CNS

Category: Community Impact Construction updates Study at NSCC

September 2024 marks an exciting milestone for NSCC with the opening of Sydney Waterfront Campus (SWC). We’re excited to welcome new and returning students, employees and our community to the state-of-the-art campus this fall.

Overlooking Sydney Harbour, the 305,000 sq. ft. campus spans the downtown area through 4 buildings connected by pedways. As one of the most sustainable and accessible buildings in Nova Scotia, the space was innovatively designed to meet the diverse needs of learners and the community.

NSCC staff assisting students on the first day of classes.

Sydney Waterfront staff helping students navigate the new campus during Orientation.

Building a community

During the 2024-25 academic year, Sydney Waterfront Campus will welcome over 1,150 students and employees through its front doors. This exciting milestone would not have been possible without the amazing work of the Campus, the dedicated Facilities team and so many others across the College. A special thank you to the community of Cape Breton for your patience during the construction phase of the build.

SWC facts and features

30+ diverse programs delivered at SWC across 5 schools
Built following the Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification™ (RHFAC) Program and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)
100% heated and cooled through geothermal heating and cooling – drawing water from Sydney Harbour to cool its buildings
Net zero-ready to balance greenhouse gas produced and removed from the atmosphere
Raised 1.25 m above the shoreline to protect the Campus from rising sea levels
Native species planted around the Campus exterior to provide a more sustainable place for the future.

It’s a big day for NSCC! The Sydney Waterfront Campus is now open. We’re excited to welcome new and returning students, and our employees to our newest campus.

Learn more about Sydney Waterfront Campus.