A Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) is a specialized program which allows students to experience a range of customized, career-focused learning opportunities while working towards their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). The Ministry of Education has developed SHSM programs for many of the industry and business sectors in the province and has authorized the York Region District School Board to offer SHSM programs in thirteen of these sectors.
Who is SHSM for?
SHSM is available to all students in grades 11 and 12 regardless of their choice of post-secondary destination. SHSM programs are available across York Region at the majority of YRDSB secondary schools.
SHSM students must also complete two credits of co-op.
What are the benefits?
SHSM provides students with an opportunity to:
Customize their secondary school education to suit their strengths, interests and abilities
Develop specialized knowledge and skills
Earn credits that postsecondary educational institutions and the sector recognise
Gain sector-recognised certification and career-relevant training
Develop Essential Skills and work habits documented through the Ontario Skills Passport
Identify, explore and refine career goals and make informed decisions about their future
Remain flexible, with the option to shift between pathways, should their goals and plans change.
Students who successfully complete a SHSM will have a special SHSM Red Seal embossed on their Ontario Secondary School Diploma and will also receive an official SHSM Record documenting the SHSM credits earned, and the industry/business sector related certifications and training received, as a part of their SHSM.
Students who graduate with a SHSM can look forward to improved prospects after secondary school because of the recognition of and support for the SHSM content from business and industry, apprenticeship training programs, colleges, and universities.
Learn more
Learn more about Specialist High-Skills Majors.
Learn more about the requirements for a health and wellness SHSM.
Why consider SHSM - Health and Wellness?
This program enables students to:
- Customize their secondary school education to suit their interests and skills.
- Complete sector recognized certifications to build their résumé.
- Prepare for post‐secondary opportunities.
- Explore and refine their career goals.
- Earn the SHSM Red Seal designation on their OSSD.
How to enrol in SHSM for Grade 11
- Read the SHSM outline.
- Select the appropriate courses for grade 11.
- Complete the application form.