DP Subject Briefs

Choosing Subjects in the Diploma Programme

DP candidates must take one course from each of the following subject groups:

DP candidates must also take one IB elective which, may be an additional course from the sciences, individuals and societies, or an IB art course. Each candidate takes a minimum of three (but at most four) subjects at the higher level (HL) over two years. The remaining subjects are taken at the standard level (SL). HL and SL courses differ in scope but are measured according to the same grade descriptors. Students are expected to demonstrate a greater body of knowledge, understanding, and skills at the higher level.

In addition, DP Candidates are required to complete the following core components:

Information about each subject/requirement can be found in the corresponding subject brief.

Group 1: Studies in Language and Literature Subject Briefs

Language A: language and literature SL & HL 

Group 2: Language Acquisition Subject Briefs

Language B SL & HL (Spanish offered at SL & HL, French and German offered only at SL)

Group 3: Individuals and Societies Subject Briefs

History Africa and Middle East HL

Psychology SL & HL 

Group 4: Sciences Subject Briefs

Biology SL/HL 

Biology (First teaching in Aug/Sept 2023) SL & HL 

Chemistry SL 

Chemistry (First teaching in Aug/Sept 2023) SL 

Computer Science SL/HL 

Design technology SL/HL 

Physics SL/HL 

Physics (First teaching in Aug/Sept 2023) SL & HL 

Group 5: Mathematics Subject Briefs

Group 6: The Arts Subject Briefs

Film HL 

Visual arts SL