Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) is a Ministry of Education approved program that allows students to focus their learning in a specific sector while meeting the requirements for their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD).
At Tommy Douglas Secondary School our students can pursue a SHSM designation in one of the following areas (click the link to learn more):
Students interested in careers in any of the above sectors would greatly benefit from this program.
The Five Components of a SHSM Program:
Course work: All students will need to complete a series of 8-10 credits at the senior level (see below for details).
Complete cooperative education placement. Coop is a mandatory component of SHSM.
Sector Recognized Certifications : All students need to complete a minimum of six certifications, some of which are mandatory and others are elective.
Participation in experiential learning activities within the sector.
Reach Ahead experiences to allow students to explore post secondary opportunities.
Sector Partnered Contextualized Experience: Requires students to participate in an innovative, creative, entrepreneurial challenge.
Students who successfully complete this program will receive a SHSM designation, in addition to their OSSD. This SHSM specialist certification will be recognized by employers, colleges and universities and may increase career opportunities, as it can be identified on resumes and in post-secondary supplementary applications.
How to Apply
To apply to SHSM please fill in the application form