Academic and TechPro Electives Curriculum Guides | Elective Subjects in the SHS Curriculum

The Department of Education (DepEd) has introduced the Strengthened Senior High School (SHS) Curriculum to make learning more focused, flexible, and aligned with real-world skills and future careers. One of the major changes in this reform is the restructuring of Elective Subjects, which now play a more important role in shaping learners’ academic and career pathways.

Electives are designed to give students more freedom and relevance in choosing subjects that match their interests, whether for higher education, employment, or technical-vocational skills development.

What are Elective Subjects in the New SHS Curriculum?

• Elective Subjects (formerly applied and specialized subjects)

Electives are now cluster-based, meaning they are grouped according to fields of specialization rather than strict strands. This allows more flexibility for learners and schools in offering subjects.

Two Main Categories of Electives

(Click on each Cluster to DOWNLOAD the Curriculum Guides)

1. Academic Electives

These electives are designed for learners who plan to pursue college education or academic pathways.

They are grouped into clusters such as:

• Arts, Social Sciences, and Humanities
• Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM-related subjects)
• Business and Entrepreneurship
• Sports, Health, and Wellness
• Field Experience and Applied Learning

2. Technical-Professional (TechPro) Electives

These electives focus on technical skills, vocational training, and industry readiness. They are aligned with TESDA-related competencies and national certifications.

TechPro clusters include:

• Information and Communications Technology (ICT)
• Industrial Arts
• Agri-Fishery Arts
• Family and Consumer Sciences
• Maritime-related skills (for selected pathways)

These subjects are intended to prepare learners for:

• TESDA NC II certification
• Immediate employment after SHS
• Entrepreneurship and technical careers

The strengthened SHS curriculum reflects DepEd’s goal of creating a more responsive, skills-based, and future-ready education system. With the restructured elective subjects, learners are given more freedom and direction in shaping their own academic and career journey.