What is a Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM)?
A Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) is a ministry-approved specialized program that allows students to focus their learning on a specific economic sector while meeting the requirements to graduate from secondary school. It also assists in their transition after graduation to apprenticeship training, college, university or the workplace.
To complete a specialist high skills major, students will:
- complete a specific bundle of 8-10 courses in the student’s selected field
- earn industry certifications like first aid and CPR qualifications
- gain on-the-job skills through cooperative education placements
- participate in experiential learning related to their sector and post-secondary options
- collaborate with community partners in the sector to engage in real-world problem-solving
When students complete a specialist high skills major, they will get:
- a high school diploma with an embossed SHSM seal
- an specialist high skills major record that has details of credit bundle, certifications, placements and other experiences
- formal recognition on their Ontario Student Transcript
Students enroll in a specialist high skills major starting in grade 11, and must complete all the requirements by graduation.
Key Benefits of a Specialist High Skills Major
Pursuing a specialist high skills major helps students to:
- tailor their high school education to their interests and talents
- develop specialized knowledge and skills
- explore a variety of careers, including those in the skilled trades
- gain sector-recognized certifications
- get career-relevant training
- engage in STEM-related activities that develop innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship
- identify, explore and refine career goals
- make informed decisions about their future
What SHSM Programs are Offered in RRDSB Schools?
- Fort Frances High School:
- Arts and Culture
- Business
- Health and Wellness
- Manufacturing
- Northern Lakes K-12 School:
- Environment
- Hospitality and Tourism
- Rainy River High School:
- Environment
- Hospitality and Tourism
- Health and Wellness (new in 2025-26)
Enrolling in SHSM:
A specialist high skills major is a 2-year program that occurs in a student's grade 11 and 12 years, and requires specialized timetabling to ensure they get the required courses.
Students planning to participate in a specialist high skills major should indicate their interest to a Guidance counsellor during course selections of their grade 10 year, and confirm their interest and participation once they start grade 11 in September.
Once they are enrolled in a specialist high skills major, students will be provided with information about the program from a lead teacher, who will help ensure they will have opportunities to complete all the requirements before graduation.
To find out more:
Ask your Guidance counsellor or principal about SHSM programs at your school.
For more detailed information about SHSM from the Ministry of Education, including specific requirements for each sector:
Specialist High Skills Major - Ministry of Education site