The curriculum contains six subject groups together with a core made up of three separate parts.
Students study six subjects selected one from each subject group, or two subjects from group 3 or 4 so that group 6 can be skipped. Normally three subjects are studied at higher level (courses representing 240 teaching hours), and the remaining three subjects are studied at standard level (courses representing 150 teaching hours).
The three parts of the core are extended essay, theory of knowledge and creativity, action, service. These are compulsory and are central to the philosophy of the Diploma Programme.
Group 1
English (SL)
Group 2
French B or ab initio / Hindi (SL)
Group 3
Business Management (HL/SL)
Economics (HL/SL)
Group 4
Physics HL/SL
Chemistry (HL/SL)
Biology(HL/SL)
Group 5
Mathematics(HL/SL)
Group 6
Theatre(HL/SL)
Extended essay
The extended essay has a prescribed limit of 4,000 words. It offers the opportunity to investigate a topic of individual interest, and acquaints students with the independent research and writing skills expected at university.
Theory of knowledge (TOK)
The interdisciplinary TOK course is designed to provide coherence by exploring the nature of knowledge across disciplines, encouraging an appreciation of other cultural perspectives.
Creativity, action, service (CAS)
Participation in the school’s CAS programme encourages students to be involved in artistic pursuits, sports and community service work, thus fostering students’ awareness and appreciation of life outside the academic arena.
