IB Diploma Benefits: Can I Get Credit as an International Student?

The International Baccalaureate is a system of educational programs and certificates established in 1968 to prepare students between the ages of 3 and 19 for the 21st century. With a reputation for high standards and pedagogical leadership, the organization works with schools, governments and international organizations to promote intercultural understanding and respect. Let's take a look at how IB diplomas and credits can impact your studies as an international student.

Structure of the IB

The IB is structured into a continuum of four programs, each one tailored to a particular stage of development.

• The Primary Years program, first offered in 1997, is aimed at pupils from age three to age 12. It inspires students to become active, lifelong learners and focuses on the development of the whole child into a caring, proactive adult.
• The Middle Years Program was introduced in 1994 to help students make practical connections between what they have learned in the classroom and what happens in the real world. Students of all academic abilities and backgrounds are encouraged to participate.
• The Diploma Program is one of two choices offered to the student between the ages of 16 and 19. The DP prepares students for university or employment and consists of six subject groups: Language, literature, cultural diversity, science, mathematics and the arts.
• The Career Program is designed to support the 16-19-year-old who is interested in a career-oriented education and prepares the student for further education, employment or an apprenticeship.

Upon successful completion of the Diploma Program, the IP provides up to six certificates bearing official transcripts. These are sent free of charge to universities. Only one may be requested for a university within the United States and three to schools in Canada. Additional copies will be provided for a fee.

IB Benefits For Students

The International Baccalaureate teaches kids between the ages of 3 and 19 how to think. "critically and independently and how to inquire with care and logic. It prepares them to function in the real world, where they have to distinguish between what is fact and what is a carefully whitewashed version of the facts. They learn how to ask the right questions to separate the truth from the spin. The conventionally-educated student is spoon-fed facts with little preparation for how to think on their feet, apart from the occasional pop quiz that is laced with 'trick' questions designed to 'teach them how to think."

The centers that offer the IB offer a welcoming environment where young people can form lasting friendships with students from all over the world as they prepare for the global job market. With a Diploma or Career program certificate in hand, each student is ready to pursue a rigorous further or higher degree at a university.

Prospects for IB graduates

Opportunities in Technology

Among the largest markets in the United States for international graduates are the information and engineering tech sectors. Employers need information security analysts. You can't tweet your followers what you had for breakfast without getting a news alert about the latest big hacking operation. Information security analysts often work for consulting firms, computing companies, businesses or finance companies to plan and implement information security programs.

They are paid handsomely for the privilege (the mean annual salary for an ISA in 2016 was $98,100 and demand for these individuals is projected to grow at a rate of 28 percent up to 2026. That's just one example of the demand for international tech graduates.

While many tech employers will offer entry level positions to applicants with a bachelor's degree, a Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS), Information Systems (MSIS), Cloud Computing, Mobile Development, Cybersecurity or Web Development will make the IB graduate a more attractive option and will therefore make you more competitive.

Opportunities in Business and Criminal Justice

While there are those who would argue that a life of crime is a business, running a legitimate business or tracking down criminals won't land you in jail. Opportunities abound for IB holders in Accounting, IT Management, Business Administration, Criminal Justice and Homeland Security.

Health Care

The biggest consumers of healthcare in the United States are the Baby Boomers, who are entering their senior years. Not only is this population demanding their right to a healthy and active retirement, but dementia is rearing its head as a growing menace. Demand is rapidly growing for international baccalaureate graduates in the Health Sciences sector. Here, a degree in healthcare administration could reward you with a lifelong, lucrative career.

Culinary Arts

People have to eat and international cuisine is big business. Culinary arts and food service management are two areas where you can flex both your mind and your creative muscles in a satisfying and rewarding career.

If you would like to learn more about how your IB education will influence your future studies at ECPI University, connect with a knowledgeable international admissions advisor today for more information.

It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!

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