What is SHSM?

The Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) is a specialized program that allows students to gain credits toward their Ontario Secondary School Diploma and focus their learning on a specific economic sector at the same time. The SHSM is a Ministry of Education approved program.

Students receive the SHSM seal on their diploma when they:

• complete a specific bundle of 8-10 courses in the student's selected field

• earn industry certifications like first aid and CPR qualifications

• gain important skills on the job through cooperative education placements

Pursuing an SHSM can help students:

• customize their high school education to suit their interests and talents

• develop specialized knowledge and skills

• earn credits that postsecondary educational institutions and employers recognize

• gain sector-recognized certification and career-relevant training

• engage in STEM-related activities that develop innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship

• identify, explore and refine career goals and make informed decisions about their future

• transition after graduation to apprenticeship training, college, university or the workplace remain flexible, with the option to shift between pathways, should their goals and plans change