Diploma Program Curriculum

The IB emphasis on critical thinking, depth of learning, research, and writing skills underscores what is already occurring at Country Day.  However, IB does have specific requirements for a "diploma candidate" that are outlined below. 

The IB curriculum is a comprehensive, two-year program for juniors and seniors.  Students choose courses from the following subject groups: studies in language and literature; language acquisition; individuals and societies; sciences; mathematics; and the arts. (Students may opt to study an additional sciences, individuals and societies, or languages course, instead of a course in the arts.) Students will take three or four courses at higher level (HL) and the remainder at standard level (SL). HL and SL courses differ in scope but are very similar in their approach.  HL students are expected to demonstrate a greater body of knowledge, understanding and skills at higher level.  An IB courseload will also fulfill Country Day graduation requirements. 

Below are typical schedules but each prospective IB student will craft an individual schedule based on their experiences, graduation requirements, and academic strengths.  While these are typical choices, there is flexibility beyond what is listed below.  For further information on IB course selection, contact Stewart Peery, IB Coordinator.

Junior Year

Typical Junior Year courses include:

  1. IB English 11
  2. Precalculus, Algebra III/Trig, or Calculus
  3. IB Chemistry or IB Biology
  4. IB World History
  5. French, Spanish, Latin, or Chinese (multiple levels available)
  6. Theory of Knowledge
  7. Free Period
Senior Year

Typical Senior Year courses include:

  1. IB English I2
  2. IB Math Studies, IB Calculus, or Calculus III/IB Maths HL
  3. IB Chemistry or IB Biology (if not completed during junior year)
  4. IB History of the Americas or US History
  5. French, Spanish, Latin, or Chinese (multiple levels available)
  6. IB "elective" such as Visual Art, Theatre, ITGS, or Psychology
  7. Free Period