International Baccalaureate (IB) Course Offerings

International Baccalaureate Course

Table of Contents

Celebrating the diversity of educational paths, the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum encompasses a wide array of courses designed to foster holistic development. While the availability of courses may vary between IB schools, the following is a complete list of all Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL) IB classes, totaling 57 when counting HL and SL separately. It’s essential to note that each student pursuing an IB Diploma must engage with courses from all six subject groups as defined by the IB. Additionally, completing the core, which includes the unique Theory of Knowledge (TOK) class, is mandatory.

 

Overview of IB Course Groups

 

Group 1: Studies in Language and Literature

Course Name Description Available Online? Level(s)
Language A: Literature Introduces the analysis of literary texts, available in 55 languages. No HL and SL
Language A: Language and Literature Critical study and interpretation of written and spoken texts, available in 17 languages. Yes, English A Language and Literature (HL and SL) HL and SL
Literature and Performance Explores the relationship between literature and theatre, emphasizing literary skills and practical, aesthetic, and symbolic elements of performance. No SL

 

Group 2: Language Acquisition

Course Name Description Available Online? Level(s)
Classical Languages Study of Latin or Classical Greek language, literature, and culture of ancient Rome or Greece. No HL and SL
Language ab Initio For beginners in a language, with options like Spanish ab initio, Mandarin ab initio, and French ab initio. Yes, Spanish ab initio, Mandarin ab initio, and French ab initio SL
Language B Develops communication skills in a language through the study of language, themes, and texts, with options like Spanish B SL. Yes, Spanish B SL HL and SL

 

Group 3: Individuals and Societies

Course Name Description Available Online? Level(s)
Business Management Develops knowledge of business management theories, analytical skills, and the ability to evaluate business activities on different levels. Yes HL and SL
Economics Explores the complexities and interdependence of economic activities in a rapidly changing world. Yes HL and SL
Geography Integrates physical and human geography, examining key global issues like poverty, sustainability, and climate change. No HL and SL
Global Politics Explores political concepts and dimensions at local, national, international, and global levels. No HL and SL
History A comparative, multi-perspective world history course focusing on key historical concepts and types. No HL and SL
Information Technology in a Global Society Examines the role of information and communication technologies in contemporary society, covering social and ethical significance, application, and IT systems. Yes HL and SL
Philosophy A systematic inquiry into profound questions, encouraging critical thinking on topics like humanity and free will. Yes, SL only HL and SL
Psychology Systematic study of behavior and mental processes, exploring biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences. Yes HL and SL
Social and Cultural Anthropology Comparative study of culture and human societies, contributing to understanding contemporary issues. No HL and SL
World Religions Analytical study of beliefs and practices in nine major world religions, promoting awareness of religious issues in the contemporary world. No SL

 

Group 4: Sciences

Course Name Description Available Online? Level(s)
Biology Investigates the living world at all levels, from cells to ecosystems. No HL and SL
Chemistry Experimental science combining academic study with practical skills. No HL and SL
Computer Science Rigorous problem-solving discipline integrating computational thinking with practical activities like programming. No HL and SL
Design Technology Develops understanding of design and technology’s global impact, focusing on analysis, synthesis, and evaluation. No HL and SL
Environmental Systems and Societies* Examines interrelationships between environmental systems and societies, providing insights into environmental issues. No SL
Physics Fundamental experimental science explaining the universe from particles to galaxies. No HL and SL
Sports, Exercise, and Health Science Integrates anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, psychology, and nutrition in the context of sport, exercise, and health. No HL and SL
*Interdisciplinary course that also counts for Group 3 and Group 4 requirements.

 

Group 5: Mathematics

Four IB Math class options, available online since August 2019, aim to develop mathematical knowledge, critical thinking, and abstraction skills.

 

Group 6: The Arts

This group focuses on creativity through various artistic endeavors, including dance, film, music, theatre, and visual arts. Students may substitute this requirement with a class from groups 1, 2, 3, or 4 if they opt not to take an arts course.

Course Name Description Available Online? Level(s)
Dance Focuses on the composition, performance, and analysis of expressive movement from diverse cultures and traditions. No HL and SL
Film Develops proficiency in interpreting and creating film texts, enhancing critical abilities and cultural appreciation. Yes, SL only HL and SL
Music Develops musical knowledge and potential, exposing students to forms, styles, and functions of music from diverse historical and socio-cultural contexts. No HL and SL
Theatre Encourages experimentation, risk-taking, and collaborative work in theatre creation and performance. No HL and SL
Visual Arts Encourages students to challenge creative and cultural expectations, fostering analytical skills and technical proficiency. No HL and SL

 

Other IB Required Class

The final mandatory course for the IB Diploma Programme is Theory of Knowledge (TOK). This course prompts students to reflect on the nature of knowledge and how it is claimed. Assessment includes an oral presentation and a 1,600-word essay, with the option to take it online.

Despite its initial vagueness, TOK offers a unique blend of philosophy and personal evaluation, making it a favorite among high school students. It provides a platform for reflecting on issues of personal importance and contributes significantly to the holistic IB educational experience.

Curious about what’s next in your IB journey? Explore additional IB classes online with Eclassopedia.

Ready to delve deeper into the IB experience? Click here to discover more on Eclassopedia!

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