Career-Related Program Information

DP/CP IB Coordinator for Annapolis High School: Mary Abdo (MABDO@aacps.org)

The IB Diploma Programme (CP): Preparing students for college, careers, and life in a global society

What is the Career-Related Programme?

The IB Career-related Programme (CP) is designed for students in grades 11 & 12 who are interested in combining academic learning with real-world career preparation. The CP is a rigorous and engaging educational framework for students aged 16 to 19 that integrates the values of the International Baccalaureate with practical, career-focused experiences. The programme provides a unique pathway that allows students to pursue their academic interests while gaining valuable skills and experience in a chosen career field. It prepares students for success in higher education, apprenticeships, and employment by developing both intellectual understanding and practical application.

The Career-Related Programme prepares student to:

• Develop academic knowledge alongside career-specific, real-world skills

• Apply classroom learning to meaningful, hands-on experiences

• Build critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills

• Grow as confident, resilient, and self-directed learners

• Develop intercultural understanding and a global perspective

• Explore career interests while maintaining a strong academic foundation

The Curriculum

The IB Career-related Programme is built on a three-part framework:

• IB Diploma Programme (DP) Courses: Students complete at least two IB academic courses to provide a strong academic foundation

• Career-related Study: Students engage in a career pathway that connects learning to real-world applications and professional fields

• CP Core: A set of four components that develop essential personal, academic, and professional skills

The four components of the CP Core include:

• Personal and Professional Skills (PPS): Development of communication, collaboration, and critical thinking skills

• Service Learning (Community Engagement): Opportunities to apply learning through meaningful community involvement

• Language and Cultural Studies: Growth in language skills and intercultural awareness

• Reflective Project: An in-depth research project exploring an ethical issue connected to a student’s career interests

Pathway Options for CP:

• JROTC

• FACS

• Child Development

• Cat-South

• AACC Entrepreneurship

Assessment

Students in the CP complete assessments within both their IB courses and their career-related studies. IB Diploma Programme courses include externally assessed examinations, while elements of the CP core are assessed through a combination of internal and external evaluation.

Why Choose the IB Career-Related Programme?

The CP is ideal for students who want a more hands-on, career-focused approach to learning while still benefiting from the academic rigor and international recognition of the IB. The programme allows students to personalize their learning experience, explore career pathways, and graduate with the skills needed to thrive in college, careers, and beyond.