Information, Communication and Design SHSM
What is the Information and Communications Technology SHSM?
SHSM stands for Specialist High Skills Major. The ICT SHSM (Information and Communications Technology) program offers students a unique opportunity to specialize in areas such as technology, design and communications. It allows them to gain valuable industry-recognized certifications, develop hands-on skills through practical learning experiences and thoughtfully plan their future career pathways, all while completing their high school education.
Who Is This Program For?
Students interested in technology, design, engineering, or communications, including film & TV, graphic design, 3D printing, web development, computer programming, animation and media arts.
What Will You Do?
- Create real-world design and communication projects
- Use industry tools for video/audio production
- Explore editing, journalism, CAD, animation, electronics and programming
Program Highlights
- Earn industry certifications
- Get hands-on with 3D printers, robotics and pro software
- Gain experience through co-op, field trips and competitions
- Includes CLAs in Math/English, safety training and Reach-Ahead experiences
Requirements of the Program
Students must complete:
- 4 Technology/Computer Science courses over grades 11 & 12
- A Design, Engineering, or Communications related co-op
- 6 Certifications
- 1 Sector-Partner Experience (SPE)
- 1 Reach-Ahead Activity
- 1 Experiential Learning Activity
- 1 ICT-related learning activity in Math and English (CLA)
ICT Major Courses
| Grade 11 | Grade 12 |
|---|---|
| TDJ3M - Technological Design (Architectural) | TDJ4M - Technological Design (Architectural) |
| TDV3M - Technological Design (Interior) | TDV4M - Technological Design (Interior) |
| TGJ3M - Communication Technology | TGJ4M/O - Communication Technology |
| TGV3M - TV/Video Broadcast | TGV4M - TV/Video Broadcast |
| TEJ3M - Computer Engineering | TEJ4M - Computer Engineering |
| ICS3C/U - Computer Science | ICS4C/U - Computer Science |
| ASM3O/M - Media Arts | ASM4M - Media Arts |
ICT SHSM Areas
ICT-Related Co-op
Students can gain real-world experience and test-drive a career through an ICT-related co-op, which can be completed either during the summer between Grades 11 and 12 or as a 2-credit course in Grade 11 or 12.
Certifications
Students in the ICT SHSM program will earn certifications in Standard First Aid, CPR Level C & AED, Customer Service, WHMIS, Leadership Skills, Personality Inventory and Portfolio Development.
Sector-Partner Experience
Collaborate with a business to solve real-world problems using creativity and entrepreneurship, such as through the March of Dimes Canada DesignAbility Program.
Reach-Ahead Activity
Explore post-secondary and career opportunities in ICT by attending lectures at colleges or universities, touring post-secondary campuses and participating in workshops or webinars.
Experiential Learning Activity
Explore the ICT sector through programs like McMaster Altitude, engineering tours at Canada’s Wonderland, robotics facility visits, photography workshops, programming contests and skills competitions.
CLA – Conceptualized Learning Activity
In Grade 11 English, students read a SHSM-related book as part of their ISU, while in Grade 12 Math, they complete a unit analyzing post-secondary education costs related to their chosen pathway.
Rewards of an ICT SHSM
- Gain valuable design, engineering and media skills
- Develop job market soft skills
- Stand out in college/university applications
- Potential scholarship opportunities
- Industry-recognized certifications
- Receive a red seal on your graduation diploma
How to Apply
- Visit myblueprint.ca
- Click on High School
- Select Learn More under Regional Programs
- Indicate your interest in ICT SHSM
- Wait for program lead to contact you
Program Leads
Tara Ashley – ashleyt@hdsb.ca
Bonnie Barran – barranb@hdsb.ca