Career Programme Grades 11 & 12
Career-related Programme
What is the Career-related Programme?
The IB Career-related Programme (CP) is a framework of international education designed specifically for students who wish to engage in career-related learning while gaining transferable and lifelong skills in applied knowledge, critical thinking, communication, and cross-cultural engagement.
The CP is ideal for students aged 16-19 who have a clear idea of their career interests and want to combine academic study with practical, hands-on experience in their chosen field.
Academic Courses
Students take at least two IB Diploma Programme courses, providing theoretical underpinning and academic rigor to complement their career studies
CP Core
Four components develop personal qualities, professional skills, and intellectual habits required for lifelong learning and career success
Career-related Study
Practical, real-world learning experiences in a specific career pathway chosen by the student based on their interests and goals
CP Programme Components
CP students take at least two IB Diploma Programme courses from the six subject groups:
- Studies in Language and Literature: Analysis and interpretation of literary and non-literary texts
- Language Acquisition: Modern languages and classical languages
- Individuals and Societies: History, geography, economics, business management, psychology
- Sciences: Biology, chemistry, physics, environmental systems, computer science
- Mathematics: Analysis and approaches, or applications and interpretation
- The Arts: Visual arts, music, theatre, film, dance
Students typically choose DP courses that relate to their career-related study, providing theoretical knowledge to complement practical skills.
The CP Core consists of four interconnected components:
- Personal and Professional Skills (PPS): Development of attitudes, skills, and strategies for effective participation in the workplace and higher education. Includes time management, ethical decision-making, intercultural communication, and collaborative teamwork
- Service Learning: Students develop as inquiring, caring, and thoughtful young people through meaningful service in the community. Connects classroom learning with real-world needs
- Reflective Project: An in-depth body of work produced over an extended period, related to the student's career-related study. Includes a written report and presentation demonstrating research, analysis, and reflection
- Language Development: Ensures students have access to and use of a second language, broadening their perspective and enhancing communication skills essential for a globalized world
These core components provide context to DP courses and career-related studies, drawing all aspects of the framework together.
The career-related study provides students with practical, real-world learning experiences in their chosen career field:
- Must meet IB standards for breadth, quality, and level of challenge
- Tailored to students' career interests and post-secondary goals
- Provides hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or coursework
- Connects classroom learning to workplace realities
- Develops specialized knowledge and technical skills in the chosen field
- Leads to industry certifications, college credit, or advanced standing
Common career-related study pathways include: Business and Marketing, Computer Science and IT, Engineering, Health Sciences and Biomedical Studies, Hospitality and Culinary Arts, Education, Visual and Performing Arts, and more.
CP Assessment Methods:
- DP Courses: Assessed through written examinations marked by external IB examiners. Scores range from 1-7 for each subject
- CP Core Components: Assessed by the school using IB criteria. The Reflective Project is externally moderated
- Career-related Study: Assessed according to the requirements of the providing organization or institution
CP Certificate: Students who successfully complete all requirements earn the IB Career-related Programme Certificate, recognized by universities and employers worldwide.
University Recognition: Many universities award credit or advanced standing for DP course exam scores. The CP Certificate demonstrates both academic achievement and practical career readiness.
Why choose the Career-related Programme?
- Personalized Learning: Tailor your education to match your career interests and goals
- Practical Experience: Gain real-world skills and workplace experience while in high school
- Academic Rigor: Benefit from the recognized excellence of IB Diploma Programme courses
- Multiple Pathways: Prepared for university, apprenticeships, or direct employment
- Professional Skills: Develop communication, collaboration, and problem-solving abilities valued by employers
- Global Recognition: Earn an internationally recognized qualification
- College Credit: Potential to earn university credit through DP exam scores
- Career Confidence: Graduate with clarity about your career path and the skills to succeed
- Competitive Advantage: Stand out in college applications and job interviews with practical experience
How does the CP differ from the full Diploma Programme?
- Course Load: CP requires at least 2 DP courses; DP requires 6 courses
- Career Focus: CP includes career-related study; DP is purely academic
- Flexibility: CP allows more time for career exploration; DP has broader academic requirements
- Core Requirements: Both have core components but structured differently
- Best For: CP suits students with clear career interests; DP suits students seeking broad academic preparation
Both programmes: Provide internationally recognized qualifications, develop critical thinking and research skills, prepare students for university success, and foster global citizenship.
Learn More About the CP
Visit the official International Baccalaureate website for comprehensive information about the Career-related Programme, including curriculum details, assessment methods, and university recognition.
Visit IB Career-related Programme →Questions About the CP?
For more information about the Career-related Programme at Loveland High School, including timeline updates and how to prepare, please contact our IB coordinator.
Darryl Baca | IB Coordinator
Contact Darryl Baca