Specialist High Skills Majors (SHSM) Program

Sector Profile

The business sector is bursting with opportunities, from positions as accountants and clerks to administrators and retailers. Because of globalization and new technology, the business sector also offers opportunities to young entrepreneurs to aim at the international market. As long as there is commerce, qualified and knowledgeable workers in business will find prospects either in one of Canada’s prospering companies or as an entrepreneur in one of their own. The business sector offers opportunities in finance, retail, real estate, human resources or organizational, management and budget-related careers in the other sectors of our economy.

Program Requirements

In the Business major, students will take 9 credits in grades 11 and 12:

• 4 Business major credits.
• 1 English credit (Grade 11 or 12).
• 2 Math credits (Grade 11 and 12) (for workplace pathways, 2 English credits, and 1 math credit).
• 2 Cooperative Education credits to gain workplace experience that helps you refine, extend and practice your business knowledge and skills.

Additionally, students will have opportunities for:

• Experiential learning, career exploration and reach-ahead activities in business.
• Certifications and training programs, including:
  • 4 compulsory certifications: Standard First Aid, WHMIS (generic), CPR (Level C) with AED, Customer Service.
  • 2 additional certifications and/or training courses as specified in the sector-specific guide.
• Engaging with a sector partner to explore sector-related content, skills, and knowledge involving either ICE (innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship), coding, or mathematical literacy.

Future Career Paths

For business majors, possible career paths include:

• ​Apprenticeship – parts technician, special events coordinator, entrepreneur.
• College – conference and event planner, legal secretary, entrepreneur.
• University – financial and investment analyst, web designer and developer, entrepreneur.
• Entry level workplace – accounting clerk, banking clerk, real estate agent, entrepreneur.

Locations and Contact

Call the guidance department at the following schools that offer the Business SHSM program:

• St. Matthew High School – 613-837-3161
• Sacred Heart High School –  613-831-6643

Sector Profile

According to the Ontario Construction Secretariat, the construction industry is one of Ontario’s largest employers. The construction industry is diverse and offers the opportunity to participate in all kinds of projects such as office buildings, plants, schools, roads, hydroelectric dams, hospitals, churches, houses and tunnels. Large or small, the projects are managed, budgeted for, planned and built carefully and capably by people with the ingenuity, skill and education to create.

Program Requirements

In the Construction major, students will take 10 credits in grades 11 and 12:

• 4 Construction major credits.
• 2 Math credits (Grade 11 and 12).
• 1 English credit (Grade 11 or 12).
• 1 Business Studies or Science credit (Grade 11 or 12).
• 2 Cooperative Education credits to gain workplace experience that helps you refine, extend and practice your construction knowledge and skills.

Additionally, students will have opportunities for:

• Experiential learning, career exploration and reach-ahead activities in construction.
• Certifications and training programs in arts and culture, including:
  • 5 compulsory certifications: Standard First Aid, WHMIS (generic), CPR (Level C) with AED, basic health and safety, and Working at Heights.
  • 2 additional certifications and/or training courses as specified in the sector-specific guide.
• Engaging with a sector partner to explore sector-related content, skills, and knowledge involving either ICE (innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship), coding, or mathematical literacy.

Future Career Paths

For construction majors, possible career paths include:

• ​Apprenticeship – carpenter, electrician, plumber.
• College – architectural design technologist, construction technologist, home inspector, interior designer.
• University – architect, electrical engineer, mechanical engineer, structural engineer.
• Entry level workplace – concrete finisher, construction labourer, demolition worker, drywall installer.

Locations and Contact

Call the guidance department at the following schools that offer the Construction SHSM program:

• St. Francis Xavier High School – 613-822-7900
• St. Mark High School – 613-692-2551
• St. Peter High School – 613-837-9377

Sector Profile

The Environment is an emerging sector, as climate change, clean air and water become growing priorities for governments around the world. The environment sector offers career opportunities in conservation, research, recreation, innovation and more to students who are interested in this field.

Program Requirements

In the Environment major, students will take 9 credits in grades 11 and 12:

• 4 Environment major credits.
• 1 Math credit (Grade 11 or 12).
• 1 English credit (Grade 11 or 12).
• 2 Cooperative Education credits to gain workplace experience that helps you refine, extend and practice your environment knowledge and skills.

Additionally, students will have opportunities for:

• Experiential learning, career exploration and reach-ahead activities in environment.
• Certifications and training programs in arts and culture, including:
  • 4 compulsory certifications: Standard First Aid, WHMIS (generic), CPR (Level C) with AED, Global Positioning Systems.
  • 3 additional certifications and/or training courses as specified in the sector-specific guide.
• Engaging with a sector partner to explore sector-related content, skills, and knowledge involving either ICE (innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship), coding, or mathematical literacy.

Future Career Paths

For Environment majors, possible career paths include:

• ​Apprenticeship – this sector does not yet offer apprenticeship opportunities.
• College – conservation and fishery officer, soil testing technologist, forest ecologist, land surveyor, biological technician.
• University – environmental biolog​ist, waste diversion consultant, landscape architect, environmental and occupational toxicologist.
• Entry level workplace – outdoor sport and recreation guide, wastewater treatment plant operator, recycled paper handler, recreation program leader.

Locations and Contact

Call the guidance department at the following schools that offer the Environment SHSM program:

• Immaculata High School – 613-237-2001
• Notre Dame High School – 613-722-6565

Sector Profile

The demand for professionals in the Health and Wellness sector in Ontario and across Canada is increasing as the age of our population increases. As such, this sector has both a wide variety of career opportunities and employs close to 2 million people across Canada. Kinesiologists, child care workers, fitness instructors, doctors, nurses, veterinary technicians, hospital porters, and medical technicians are some of the numerous occupations the SHSM Health and Wellness program prepares students to pursue.

Program Requirements

In the Health & Wellness major, students will take 9 credits in grades 11 and 12:

• 4 Health & Wellness major credits.
• 1 English credit (Grade 11 or 12).
• 1 Math credit (Grade 11 or 12).
• 1 Science/Social Sciences credit (Grade 11 or 12).
• 2 Cooperative Education credits to gain workplace experience that helps you refine, extend and practice your Health & Wellness knowledge and skills.

Additionally, students will have opportunities for:

• Experiential learning, career exploration and reach-ahead activities in Health & Wellness.
• Certifications and training programs in health and wellness, including:
  • 4 compulsory certifications: Standard First Aid, WHMIS (generic), CPR (Level C) with AED, infection control.
  • 3 additional certifications and/or training courses as specified in the sector-specific guide.
• Engaging with a sector partner to explore sector-related content, skills, and knowledge involving either ICE (innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship), coding, or mathematical literacy.

Future Career Paths

For Health & Wellness majors, possible career paths include:

• Apprenticeship – early childhood educator, child and youth worker, educational assistant.
• College – paramedic, dental hygienist, pharmacy technician, practical nurse, athletic trainer.
• University – audiologist, dentist, dietician, pharmacist, kinesiologist, registered nurse, doctor, physiotherapist.
• Entry level workplace – certified personal trainer, lifeguard, hospital admitting clerk, doctor’s office receptionist.

Locations and Contact

Call the guidance department at the following schools that offer the Health & Wellness SHSM program:

• All Saints High School – 613-271-4254
• Holy Trinity High School – 613-591-9955
• St. Matthew High School – 613-837-3161
• St. Mother Teresa High School – 613-823-1663
• St. Patrick’s High School – 613-733-0501
• St. Pius X High School – 613-225-8105

Sector Profile

The Manufacturing sector, with its production of consumer and industrial goods, accounts for the greatest number of jobs in Ontario. Automobiles, wood products, petroleum and coal products, iron and steel mills, primary metals and fabricated metal products, electricity, plastics and rubber products, printing, biotechnology, textiles, clothing, and leather products are all aspects of the manufacturing sector.

Program Requirements

In the Manufacturing major, students will take 8 credits in grades 11 and 12:

• 4 Manufacturing major credits.
• 1 English credit (Grade 11 or 12).
• 1 Math credit (Grade 11 or 12).
• 1 Science credit (Grade 11 or 12). For workplace pathways, an additional English credit is required.
• 2 Cooperative Education credits to gain workplace experience that helps you refine, extend and practice your Manufacturing knowledge and skills.

Additionally, students will have opportunities for:

• Experiential learning, career exploration and reach-ahead activities in Manufacturing.
• Certifications and training programs in arts and culture, including:
  • 3 compulsory certifications: Standard First Aid, WHMIS (generic), CPR (Level C) with AED.
  • 3 additional certifications and/or training courses as specified in the sector-specific guide.
• Engaging with a sector partner to explore sector-related content, skills, and knowledge involving either ICE (innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship), coding, or mathematical literacy.

Future Career Paths

For Manufacturing majors, possible career paths include:

• ​Apprenticeship – precision machinist, tool and die maker, welder, electrician.
• College – design and drafting technologist, inventory analyst, stationary engineer.
• University – mechanical engineer, electrical engineer, metallurgical engineer.
• Entry level workplace – machine operator, foundry worker, inventory clerk.

Locations and Contact

Call the guidance department at the following schools that offer the Hospitality & Tourism SHSM program:

• St. Patrick’s High School – 613-733-0501
• St. Francis Xavier High School – 613-822-7900

Sector Profile

Information and Communications Technology (ICT) is about processing information (which includes capturing, transmitting and displaying information) using electronic systems. ICT is increasingly becoming an essential part of many industries. There are requirements to save time and increase efficiency, advanced technology and innovation, for electronic access to finances or online shopping, creativity, marketing, and communications. ICT includes both the hardware and information technology skills, as well as the creative, communications and graphic arts expertise.

Program Requirements

In the Information & Communications Technology major, students will take 8 credits in grades 11 and 12:

• 4 Information & Communications Technology major credits.
• 1 Math credit (Grade 11 or 12).
• 1 English credit (Grade 11 or 12).
• 1 Science, Business Studies, or Art credit (Grade 11 or 12).
• 2 Cooperative Education credits to gain workplace experience that helps you refine, extend and practice your Information & Communications Technology knowledge and skills.

Additionally, students will have opportunities for:

• Experiential learning, career exploration and reach-ahead activities in Information & Communications Technology.
• Certifications and training programs in arts and culture, including:
  • 3 compulsory certifications: Standard First Aid, WHMIS (generic), CPR (Level C) with AED.
  • 3 additional certifications and/or training courses as specified in the sector-specific guide.
• Engaging with a sector partner to explore sector-related content, skills, and knowledge involving either ICE (innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship), coding, or mathematical literacy.

Future Career Paths

For Information & Communications Technology majors, possible career paths include:

• Apprenticeship – computer network technician, help desk technology support analyst, telecommunications line and cable worker.
• College – film and video camera operator, web designer and developer, systems testing technician, audio and video recording technician.
• University – software or computer engineer, information systems analyst, software designer.
• Entry level workplace – desktop publishing operator, satellite dish installer, retail salesperson.

Locations and Contact

Call the guidance department at the following schools that offer the Information & Communications Technology SHSM program:

• All Saints High School – 613-271-4254
• Immaculata High School – 613-237-2001
• St. Mother Teresa High School – 613-823-1663
• St. Patrick’s High School – 613-733-0501

Sector Profile

Events such as the 1998 ice storm, “Y2K”, September 11, 2001 (9/11), the SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome) outbreak, and the August 2003 blackout have raised public and government recognition of the vital role of Justice, Community Safety and Emergency Services in ensuring the safety of Ontarians. Ontario now has some of the most rigorous community safety legislation in North America. Since 9/11, governments, NGOs, and private enterprises have all greatly enhanced their efforts to ensure the public’s safety and security. With these efforts have come various new programs and significant staffing increases within the sector. Police officers, firefighters, paralegals, soldiers, emergency managers, correctional officers, conservation officers, border services officers, 911 dispatchers, and lawyers are among the numerous and varied occupations in this sector.

Program Requirements

In the Justice, Community Safety & Emergency Services major, students will take 8 credits in grades 11 and 12:

• 4 Justice, Community Safety & Emergency Services major credits.
• 1 English credit (Grade 11 or 12).
• 1 Math credit (Grade 11 or 12).
• 2 Cooperative Education credits to gain workplace experience that helps you refine, extend and practice your Justice, Community Safety & Emergency Services knowledge and skills.

Additionally, students will have opportunities for:

• Experiential learning, career exploration and reach-ahead activities in Justice, Community Safety & Emergency Services.
• Certifications and training programs in arts and culture, including:
  • 4 compulsory certifications: Standard First Aid, WHMIS (generic), CPR (Level C) with AED, Conflict Resolution.
  • 3 additional certifications and/or training courses as specified in the sector-specific guide.
• Engaging with a sector partner to explore sector-related content, skills, and knowledge involving either ICE (innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship), coding, or mathematical literacy.

Future Career Paths

For Justice, Community Safety & Emergency Services majors, possible career paths include:

• ​Apprenticeship – this sector does not yet offer apprenticeship training opportunities.
• College – air traffic controller, court recorder, law clerk, paralegal, firefighter, forest fire officer, police officer, customs border services.
• University – criminologist, forensics and criminology, lawyer, military officer, policy advisor, probation officer, youth worker – corrections, politics.
• Entry level workplace – animal control officer, court clerk, court services officer, emergency services dispatcher, municipal law enforcement officer, private investigator, security guard.

Locations and Contact

Call the guidance department at the following schools that offer the Justice, Community Safety & Emergency Services SHSM program:

• Lester B. Pearson High School – 613-741-4525
• St. Francis Xavier High School – 613-822-7900
• St. Pius X High School – 613-225-8105

Sector Profile

The Manufacturing sector, with its production of consumer and industrial goods, accounts for the greatest number of jobs in Ontario. Automobiles, wood products, petroleum and coal products, iron and steel mills, primary metals and fabricated metal products, electricity, plastics and rubber products, printing, biotechnology, textiles, clothing, and leather products are all aspects of the manufacturing sector.

Program Requirements

In the Manufacturing major, students will take 8 credits in grades 11 and 12:

• 4 Manufacturing major credits.
• 1 English credit (Grade 11 or 12).
• 1 Math credit (Grade 11 or 12).
• 1 Science credit (Grade 11 or 12). For workplace pathways, an additional English credit is required.
• 2 Cooperative Education credits to gain workplace experience that helps you refine, extend and practice your Manufacturing knowledge and skills.

Additionally, students will have opportunities for:

• Experiential learning, career exploration and reach-ahead activities in Manufacturing.
• Certifications and training programs in arts and culture, including:
  • 3 compulsory certifications: Standard First Aid, WHMIS (generic), CPR (Level C) with AED.
  • 3 additional certifications and/or training courses as specified in the sector-specific guide.
• Engaging with a sector partner to explore sector-related content, skills, and knowledge involving either ICE (innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship), coding, or mathematical literacy.

Future Career Paths

For Manufacturing majors, possible career paths include:

• ​Apprenticeship – precision machinist, tool and die maker, welder, electrician.
• College – design and drafting technologist, inventory analyst, stationary engineer.
• University – mechanical engineer, electrical engineer, metallurgical engineer.
• Entry level workplace – machine operator, foundry worker, inventory clerk.

Locations and Contact

Call the guidance department at the following schools that offer the Manufacturing SHSM program:

• All Saints High School – 613-271-4254
• Notre Dame High School – 613-722-6565

Sector Profile

The Non-Profit sector offers a range of careers that are dynamic, engaging, and rewarding. The sector’s employers include some 69,000 non-profit organizations nationwide. Countless career paths are available for people who share the sector’s common vision: to make a difference. They are active in a variety of areas – health and social services, religion, development and housing, arts and culture, sports and recreation, the environment, education and research, fundraising, and law, advocacy, and politics – both in Canada and internationally.

Program Requirements

In the Non-Profit major, students will take 8 credits in grades 11 and 12:

4 Non-Profit major credits
1 English credit (Grade 11 or 12)
1 Math credit (Grade 11 or 12)
2 Cooperative Education credits to gain workplace experience that helps you refine, extend and practice your Non-Profit knowledge and skills.

Additionally, students will have opportunities for:

• Experiential learning, career exploration and reach-ahead activities in Non-Profit.
• Certifications and training programs in arts and culture, including:
  • 4 compulsory certifications: Standard First Aid, WHMIS (generic), CPR (Level C) with AED, Ethical Considerations.
  • 3 additional certifications and/or training courses as specified in the sector-specific guide.
• Engaging with a sector partner to explore sector-related content, skills, and knowledge involving either ICE (innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship), coding, or mathematical literacy.

Future Career Paths

For Non-Profit majors, possible career paths include:

• ​Apprenticeship – event planner, policy analyst.
• College – fundraising manager, counsellor.
• University – international aid worker, NGO program administrator.
• Entry level workplace – fundraiser.

Locations and Contact

Call the guidance department at the following schools that offer the Non-Profit SHSM program:

• St. Mark High School – 613-692-2551

Sector Profile

The Sports sector offers a range of careers in performance, training and treatment, recreation and support, and business and media entertainment. While many people enjoy playing or watching sports, they do not often realize the endless career opportunities that are associated with sports, beyond competing.

Program Requirements

In the Sports major, students will take 8 credits in grades 11 and 12:

• 4 Sports major credits.
• 1 Math credit (Grade 11 or 12).
• 1 English credit (Grade 11 or 12).
• 1 Science/Business Studies/Social Sciences and Humanities credit (Grade 11 or 12).
• 2 Cooperative Education credits to gain workplace experience that helps you refine, extend and practice your Sports knowledge and skills.

Additionally, students will have opportunities for:

• Experiential learning, career exploration and reach-ahead activities in Sports.
• Certifications and training programs in arts and culture, including:
  • 3 compulsory certifications: Standard First Aid, WHMIS (generic), CPR (Level C) with AED.
  • 3 additional certifications and/or training courses as specified in the sector-specific guide.
• Developing essential skills and work habits required in sports, as detailed in the Ontario Skills Passport.

Future Career Paths

For Sports majors, possible career paths include:

• ​Apprenticeship – special events coordinator.
• College – arena manager, broadcasting sports director, broadcast technician, film or video camera operator, recreation facility manager.
• University – athletic therapist, health and physical education teacher, kinesiologist.
• Entry level workplace – athlete, coach, fitness/sports instructor.

Locations and Contact

Call the guidance department at the following schools that offer the Sports SHSM program:

• Lester B. Pearson High School – 613-741-4525
• St. Mark High School – 613-692-2551
• St. Peter High School – (613) 837-9377
• St. Pius X – (613) 225-8105

Sector Profile

Transportation is essential to our everyday life. Different modes of transportation include air, rail, road, water, cable, pipeline and space. Career options range from the service, repair, and modification of vehicles and vehicle systems to the organization and management of transportation services and mass-transit systems.

Program Requirements

In the Transportation major, students will take 8 credits in grades 11 and 12:

• 4 Transportation major credits.
• 1 Math credit (Grade 11 or 12).
• 1 English credit (Grade 11 or 12).
• 1 Science or Business Studies Credit (Grade 11 or 12).
• 2 Cooperative Education credits to gain workplace experience that helps you refine, extend and practice your Transportation knowledge and skills.

Additionally, students will have opportunities for:

• Experiential learning, career exploration and reach-ahead activities in Transportation.
• Certifications and training programs in arts and culture, including:
  • 3 compulsory certifications: Standard First Aid, WHMIS (generic), CPR (Level C) with AED, Health & Safety (basic).
  • 3 additional certifications and/or training courses as specified in the sector-specific guide.
• Developing essential skills and work habits required in the transportation sector, as detailed in the Ontario Skills Passport.

Future Career Paths

For Transportation majors, possible career paths include:

• ​Apprenticeship – auto body repairer, automotive service technician, motorcycle technician, truck and coach technician.
• College – automobile production manager, industrial designer, small engine mechanic, transportation manager.
• University – aerospace engineer, automotive engineer, electrical engineer, mechanical engineer.
• Entry-level workplace – pilot, aircraft assembler, airline sales and service agent, bus driver, transit operator, small business manager.

Locations and Contact

Call the guidance department at the following schools that offer the Transportation SHSM program:

• Holy Trinity High School – 613-591-9955
• Lester B. Pearson High School – 613-741-4525
• St. Francis Xavier High School – 613-822-7900
• St. Matthew High School – 613-837-3161
• St. Patrick High School – (613) 733-0501
• St. Paul High School – 613-820-9705

Not necessarily. We do accept students who are entering grade 12 the next year if they have the required pre-requisite courses or are planning to complete these in summer school before grade 12.

Yes, as long as you have documentation showing the certification.

Yes, you do not need to be part of the SHSM to take Co-op or OYAP.

The SHSM program exists to help students identify, explore and refine their career goals, allowing a student to discover what they like doing, and just as importantly, what they don’t enjoy doing. If your interests change, you do not have to continue in the program—all credits earned in a SHSM program count towards completing a standard Ontario Secondary School Diploma.

No. However, if a student that has not graduated returns for a 5th year they can remain in the SHSM program. Once they graduate, they will receive their OSSD diploma with the SHSM red seal.

You have several options. You can take co-op in the summer, OR you can take a grade 11 SHSM major course during grade 10. This will leave two credits open for co-op in grade 12.

Students who successfully complete a SHSM receive:

• An Ontario Secondary School Diploma with an embossed red seal.
• An SHSM Record documenting his/her achievement.
• Formal recognition on his/her Ontario Student Transcript.

See your guidance counsellor or the SHSM lead teacher.

You will not get your SHSM designation until you have completed ALL the courses in the SHSM pathway chart both in grade 11 and grade 12.

Yes, it is strongly recommended that you register for the SHSM if your school offers the same sector as your OYAP. Many of your OYAP requirements will count toward your SHSM as well.

Let your guidance counsellor know that you have changed your career goals. If a SHSM program exists related to your new career area, your SHSM can be switched to the new sector. (This may require a transfer to another school.) Some of the certifications and courses may also be used toward your new SHSM.

Yes, if you are interested in a possible career related to the SHSM sector, you can register for that SHSM. Even if you do not complete all the components of the SHSM, you will still benefit from a certification training, field trips and other learning experiences related to the SHSM. You will also receive a summary of all your completed SHSM components when you graduate.

Many post-secondary applications to university have opportunities for supplemental applications. There are programs that traditionally require portfolios and/or interviews. Many of these are in the Arts, which would be advantageous for students in an Arts and Culture SHSM. Some programs in Radio and Broadcasting, Communications, Journalism and Architecture also require supplemental information. The SHSM qualification and associated training and certifications provide a distinct advantage for students applying for summer employment and university co-op placements.

At this point, universities do not consider the SHSM for admissions. BUT…the SHSM does provide a definite advantage for students going to university. It occurs when students are competing to obtain employment between terms at university. The SHSM qualification and associated training and certifications provide a distinct advantage to students when applying for summer employment or co-op placements. These qualifications add to a student’s portfolio when going through job interviews.