DP Overview & Curriculum

Introduction to Diploma Programme (DP)

The International Baccalaureate® (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) is an assessed programme for students aged 16 to 19. It is respected by leading universities across the globe. The Diploma Programme (DP) curriculum is made up of six subject groups and the DP core, comprising theory of knowledge (TOK), creativity, activity, service (CAS) and the extended essay. Through the Diploma Programme (DP) core, students reflect on the nature of knowledge, complete independent research and undertake a project that often involves community service.

What DP offers students

Through the DP, schools are able to develop students who:

• have excellent breadth and depth of knowledge

• flourish physically, intellectually, emotionally and ethically

• study at least two languages

• excel in traditional academic subjects

• explore the nature of knowledge through the programme’s unique theory of knowledge course.

Why offer DP?

International research shows that there are many benefits to choosing the DP over other 16-19 curricula. For example:

• DP students are better able than their peers to cope with demanding workloads, manage their time and meet the expectations placed on them, according to one study

• Analysis of DP students in Canada, the UK and the USA found that the DP’s extended essay improves students’ approach to learning in higher education

• 72% of students taking the DP in China attend one of the world’s top 500 universities, according to a 2013 study.

Important IB Links