IB Diploma Program

Renowned for its rigorous focus on critical thinking and research, the IB Diploma course of study is recognized around the globe as the world’s best preparation for collegiate academics.

Approximately 50 Edsmen from each class choose to pursue the IB Diploma, which involves taking a full slate of IB classes in grades 11 and 12, along with completing additional service hours, projects, and research.

St. Edward’s IB Diploma cohort enjoys higher acceptance rates at top universities.

The IB Diploma is highly valued not only by colleges and universities but also by employers and Edsmen themselves, who often report they were exceptionally well-prepared for college.

IB Diploma Requirements

IB Diploma candidates complete the following during junior and senior years:

• A full slate of advanced IB coursework across six subjects: literature, language acquisition, history, the sciences, mathematics, and electives (the arts, business, computer science, and more).
  
  
• Theory of Knowledge: An in-depth, two-year class that encourages students to explore the nature of knowledge and how we come to understand the world.
  
  
• Reflective Service: The Creativity, Activity, Service project fosters personal growth, physical activity, and reflective service.
  
  
• Extended Essay: A 4,000-word research paper on a topic of their choice, promoting independent research and critical thinking.

In This Section

Theory of Knowledge

Theory of Knowledge challenges IB Diploma candidates to consider how and why they know what they know.

Reflective Service

As part of the Creativity, Activity, Service requirement, IB Diploma candidates engage in service activities that cultivate a strong sense of social responsibility.

Extended Essay

The Extended Essay is a capstone project for IB Diploma candidates, offering a unique opportunity to dive into a topic of interest.