The High Skills Major certificate allows students to earn credits toward their high school diploma while developing skills and competencies through courses and real-world experiences aligned with their career interests. This pilot, launched in 2023, offers five certificates: Arts, Digital Innovation and Technology, Early Childhood Education, Health and Wellness, and Skilled Trades.
Why enrol?
Students increase their awareness of labour market options and can make informed decisions about their education and future. Students develop specialized skills, earn sector-valued credentials, and have opportunities to network with professionals and employers.
After completing all requirements, students earn a certificate in addition to their high school diploma. Plus, students can share their portfolio with post-secondary programs and employers, and can benefit from incentives, bursaries, and post-secondary recognition.
How to Enrol?
There is no formal application process. Students should notify their school counselor as soon as they know they would like to pursue a High Skills Major Certificate. Ideally, students should decide to enter the program during the course selection process in grade 9. However, students can enrol at a later point in high school, as long as they can complete all required components.
If students are currently enrolled in a recognized program such as International Baccalaureate (IB), Options and Opportunities (O2), or French Immersion, they can still earn a High Skills Major Certificate.
Incentives, Bursaries, and Recognition
Students may be eligible for a variety of incentives and recognition opportunities, including:
HSM Digital Innovation and Technology - Dual credit recognition from Dalhousie University for students who complete both Computer Programming 12 and independent online learning modules through Dalhousie.
HSM Early Childhood Education - Credit toward NSCC’s Professional Practice I course.
HSM Skilled Trades Certificate - Three $500 bursaries from the Building Trades Advancement College of Nova Scotia, awarded annually to three students graduating with an HSM Skilled Trades Certificate ; 200 hours of Apprenticeship practical credit from the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency for graduates with an HSM Skilled Trades Certificate.
Other local opportunities may also be available, such as bursaries or awards offered by community employers or organizations. Community organizations, post-secondary institutions, and industry partners continue to work together to explore additional incentives and recognition opportunities for HSM graduates.
Interested in supporting HSM students?
We welcome partnerships that provide bursaries, awards, or other incentives. Contact us at careerpathways@novascotia.ca . Community support helps open doors for future graduates.
Participating Schools
The following schools will pilot one of five certificates: Arts, Digital Innovation and Technology, Early Childhood Education, Health and Wellness, and Skilled Trades. In upcoming years, High Skills Major will expand to more schools.
