What is IB?
The International Baccalaureate (IB) is a globally recognized educational program known for its academic rigor, international focus, and commitment to developing well-rounded students. The program helps students grow as learners and global citizens, preparing them for success in college and beyond.
What is the Diploma Programme?
The IB Diploma Programme (DP) is a two-year academic program for students aged 16–19 (11th and 12th grade). Students take:
- 6 academic subjects (3 at Higher Level, 3 at Standard Level)
- The IB Core, which supports personal and academic development
At ND, students are enrolled in the full IB Diploma Programme, not as individual course candidates.
Key Characteristics of the IB Programme
- Academic Rigor:The IB curriculum is challenging and comprehensive, helping students develop strong academic and analytical skills.
- International-mindedness:IB encourages students to see the world from multiple perspectives and promotes global understanding and respect.
- Holistic Development: IB nurtures both academic success and personal growth, helping students become thoughtful, balanced individuals.
- Critical Thinking:Students learn to question, evaluate, and make meaningful connections between what they learn and real-world issues.
- Global Citizenship:The IB mission is to help create a better and more peaceful world by developing compassionate, responsible global citizens.
IB CORE?
The IB Core is made up of three components that are essential to the full Diploma Programme:
- Theory of Knowledge (TOK)This course helps students explore how knowledge is constructed and evaluated across different disciplines improving reasoning and reflection.
- Extended Essay (EE)A 4,000-word independent research project on a topic of the student’s choice. This helps develop college-ready research and writing skills.
- Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)Encourages students to get involved in creative activities, physical fitness, and community service — promoting balance and real-world engagement.
What IB courses do we offer at ND?
Group 1 – Studies in Language & Literature: English A: Language and Literature (HL)
Group 2 – Language Acquisition:Spanish B (SL&HL), Italian (SL), Latin (SL)
Group 3 – Individuals & Societies:History (HL), Psychology (SL)
Group 4 – Sciences:Biology (HL), Design Technology aka Engineering (SL & HL)
Group 5 – Mathematics: Math: Analysis & Approaches (SL & HL)
Group 6 – The Arts: Visual Arts (SL & HL), Music (SL & HL)
How IB, AP, and UConn ECE Compare
| IB | AP | UCONN Early College Experience (ECE) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| CURRICULUM | Holistic, global, Interconnected | Course-specific | UCONN-aligned college courses |
ASSESSMENT | Internal + External + Coursework | End-of-year exam | Coursework + UCONN credit |
| COLLEGE CREDIT | Yes (based on scores) | Yes (based on scores) | Yes (transcripted from UCONN) |
| DIPLOMA OPTION | Yes (full program) | No | No |
| SKILLS EMPHASIZED | Critical thinking, inquiry, writing | Content mastery | College-level reading/writing |
A: Yes. ND students are enrolled in the full Diploma Programme, which includes six academic subjects and the three Core components (TOK, EE, CAS). We do not offer an option to take individual IB courses only.
A: IB is a comprehensive two-year program with a focus on global awareness, independent research, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary learning. Unlike AP, IB includes a unique Core curriculum that supports student growth beyond the classroom.
A: Yes. Many colleges and universities award credit or advanced standing for high scores on IB exams, especially in Higher Level (HL) subjects. Credit policies vary by institution.
A: ND offers only the full Diploma Programme, but even if a student does not earn the full diploma, colleges may still grant credit for individual subject exam scores.
college acceptances from our 1st IB Graduates
For more information
For questions or guidance about the IB Programme, please contact:
Kim Butz, IB Diploma Programme Coordinator, [email protected], 203-933-1673
or fill out the Inquiry Form and we will get back to you shortly.
