Understanding the Course Coding System in Ontario High Schools
Navigating the world of high school courses can be overwhelming, especially when confronted with various course codes. In Ontario, the Ministry of Education has established a standardized course coding system to simplify the process. At Toronto Global Academy, we adhere to this system, ensuring clarity and consistency for our students and parents.
Each course code consists of five characters, each providing specific information about the course:
- Course Descriptor
(First Three Characters): The first three characters denote the subject area. For instance, “ENG” stands for English, and “MPM” stands for Principles of Mathematics. This part of the code quickly informs students about the subject matter of the course.
- Grade Level (Fourth Character): The fourth character indicates the grade level of the course. The numbers correspond as follows:
- 1 = Grade 9
- 2 = Grade 10
- 3 = Grade 11
- 4 = Grade 12
- Course Type (Fifth Character): The final character identifies the type of course. DIfferent course types cater to various student needs and post-secondary pathways:
- D = Academic
- P = Applied
- U = University
- M = University or College
- C = College
- O = Open
- E = Workplace
- W = De-streamed
To better understand this system, let’s look at some examples:
Example 1: MTH1W
- Course Descriptor: MTH (Mathematics)
- Grade Level: 1 (Grade 9)
- Course Type: W (De-streamed)
This code indicates a Grade 9 De-streamed Mathematics course, providing a mixed academic and applied approach to suit diverse student needs.
Example 2: SBI3U
- Course Descriptor: SBI (Science Biology)
- Grade Level: 3 (Grade 11)
- Course Type: U (University)
This code represents a grade 11 Biology course designed to prepare students for university-level studies.
Example 3: ENG2P
- Course Descriptor: ENG (English)
- Grade level: 2 (Grade 10)
- Course Type: P (Applied)
This code signifies a Grade 10 English course with an applied focus, emphasizing practical skills and knowledge.
Example 4: MHF4U
- Course Descriptor: MHF (Advanced Functions)
- Grade Level: 4 (Grade 12)
- Course Type: U (University)
This code denotes a Grade 12 course in Advanced Functions, aimed at students planning to pursue university education.
At Toronto Global Academy, understanding these course codes is crucial for students to make informed decisions about their educational pathways. We provide comprehensive support to help students navigate the curriculum effectively. Our experienced educators offer personalized guidance on course selection to ensure that each student’s academic plan aligns with their goals and future aspirations. We also offer various resources, such as tutoring, academic counseling, and career planning services, to support students in achieving their highest potential.
For more information on the Ontario course coding system or assistance in course selection, please contact Toronto Global Academy: