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SHSM (Specialist High Skills Majors)

Banner image with Specialist High Skills Majors (SHSM) logo and images

What is a Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM)?

The SHSM is a program that provides students in secondary school an opportunity to focus on a specific sector and gain valuable experiences while meeting the requirements of the OSSD (Ontario Secondary School Diploma).
 
Why should I take a SHSM?
  • Students gain valuable experiences and the program supports their education and career/life planning process
  • Students gain sector relevant certifications and training that could help them to get a job or an apprenticeship
  • Many Colleges and Universities offer SHSM scholarships
  • Students will engage with industry professionals who could possibly support students’ throughout their career
 

Programs Offered (click the titles to see which schools offer each program)

Components of the SHSM:

1. 8-10 sector specific courses
  • Students gear their learning towards a specific sector and take a bundle of courses that provides them with focused learning. Two of the credits must be in Cooperative Education and in a sector related to the SHSM.
2. Sector Specific Certifications and training
  • Students will complete 6-8 sector specific certifications including First Aid & CPR.
3. Reach Ahead Opportunities
  • Students will participate in opportunities that expose them to the various post-secondary pathways.
4. Experiential Learning Opportunities
  • Students will engage in various career exploration activities in the sector that they are enrolled in to gain a deeper understanding of that sector.
5. Sector Partnered Experiences
  • Experiences in which students engage with a sector partner to explore sector-related content, skills, and knowledge involving either ICE (Innovation, Creativity, Entrepreneurship), coding or mathematical literacy.


When can I enroll in the SHSM?

Students can enroll at the beginning of Grade 11. Go to your Student Services department to enroll or to gain more information.
 

Can I start working on SHSM components before Grade 11?

Students should be working with their teachers and guidance counselors to plan ahead for their SHSM. For example, some students may want to consider a summer co-op between grades 11 and 12 if co-op will not fit into the student’s timetable.
 

How is the SHSM acknowledged when I graduate?

  • An embossed SHSM seal of distinction on your diploma when you graduate
  • An SHSM report card with all of your accomplishments listed
  • Formal recognition on the Ontario Student Transcript