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.
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