Niagara Catholic District School Board

Program Details

The Arts and Culture SHSM program offers students a unique opportunity to dive deep into their passions in visual arts, drama, dance, media, and technical theatre. This program not only equips students with valuable certifications and hands-on workplace experience, but also sets them on a pathway towards exciting careers in the vibrant arts and culture sector. This program includes:

A Bundle of Credits: Students must complete a bundle of eight senior credits which includes:

      Four major credits in arts and culture, which can include courses in visual arts, drama, music, and other related subjects.

·      One English credit.

·      One additional credit in Business Studies, Canadian and World Studies, or an additional major credit.

*Sample Grade 11 and 12 Course Selections for University Bound Student Studying Arts and Culture

*Contact Student Services at your school for course availability and planning support

Two Co-operative Education Credits related to the Arts and Culture Sector. Apprenticeship, College  or workplace bound students can take FOUR or more credits in Co-op while fulfilling graduation requirements.

Certifications and Training: Students must complete sector-recognized certifications and training, such as:

•         Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Level C

•         Standard First Aid

•         Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS)

Experiential Learning: Opportunities for hands-on learning through co-operative education placements, job shadowing, and field trips.

·      Reach Ahead Experiences: Activities that connect students with their postsecondary goals, such as visits to colleges, universities, or workplaces.

·     Sector-Partnered Experiences: Activities that involve working with industry partners to gain real-world experience.

Example of Experiential Learning 

An Arts and Culture SHSM field trip could visit a local art gallery or theater. They would tour the facility, interact with artists or performers, and participate in a workshop on visual arts or performing arts, gaining insights into creative careers and cultural appreciation.

Career Pathways in Arts and Culture:

Workplace Pathway:

Graduates can pursue careers such as gallery assistant, museum technician, art handler, or arts administrator.

College Pathway:

Students can enrol in programs like Fine Arts, Graphic Design, Arts Management, or Theatre Production, leading to careers such as graphic designer, arts manager, or theatre technician.

University Pathway:

Students can pursue degrees in Art History, Performing Arts, Visual Arts, or Cultural Studies, leading to careers such as curator, art historian, performing artist, or cultural critic.

Apprenticeship Pathway:

Students may pursue apprenticeships in areas like set design, costume making, or art conservation, leading to roles such as set designer, costume maker, or art conservator.

Sample for Elective Certifications within the Arts and Culture Sector SHSM