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The IB Diploma Programme is an internationally recognized pre-university program, known for its challenging curriculum that develops critical thinking, spirit of inquiry, exceptional written and oral communication skills, and global perspective. 

At MCDS, students benefit from IB curriculum through multiple pathways that satisfy each student’s personal goals, which may range from earning a full IB Diploma to taking select IB classes. All grade 11 and 12 courses at MCDS are IB courses, ensuring a thorough, well-rounded college preparatory education for every student.

    IB courses are characterized by an emphasis on depth over breadth, requiring students to question not just their answers, but indeed question their sources. Students can earn the full IB Diploma, earn IB certificates for select courses with their MCDS diploma, or earn the MCDS diploma while benefiting from the IB approach to learning.
     

    Diplomma Programme Key Findings
     

    The IB Diploma is awarded to students who:

    • Study and take exams in six academic areas: English, Mathematics, History, Science (Biology and/or Chemistry), World Language, Art or Music.
    • Complete critical thinking class called “Theory of Knowledge.”
    • Research and write a 4,000 word original research paper called the “Extended Essay.”
    • Complete a minimum of 150 hours of extracurricular activities with the purpose of “Creativity, Action, and Service” (CAS).

    IB DP Model

    International research shows that there are many benefits to choosing the IB DP curricula.

    For example:

    • IB 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 IB DP students found that the IB DP’s extended essay improves students’ approach to learning in higher education.
    • Researchers found that the IB approach of explicitly teaching critical thinking skills helps students develop "significantly higher levels of critical thinking than their non-IB peers.

    You can read more key facts about the IB DP on the IB website.

    Questions?

    For questions or more information about IB DP, contact our IB DP coordinator Mark Childs. 

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