An elective is a course that students choose from a range of options, as opposed to required or mandatory courses in a curriculum. Elective courses allow students to explore personal interests, develop specialized skills, or sample potential career paths. High school students typically have more elective flexibility as they progress through grades, with Grade 11 and 12 offering the widest selection. Elective categories commonly include arts (visual arts, music, drama), technology (computer science, woodworking, automotive), business, languages, and specialized academic courses. Some electives count toward specific graduation requirements (like arts or physical education credits), while others are purely optional. Post-secondary programs also include elective courses, allowing students to broaden their education beyond their major or specialization. Course availability varies by school based on enrollment, staffing, and facilities.