International Baccalaureate (IB)

For the IB Diploma Program, students must choose one subject from each of five subject groups: Studies in Language and Literature, Language Acquisition, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, and Mathematics.

A sixth subject may be chosen from an additional group (the Arts) or from one of the other subject groups. Students have to complete three subjects at Higher Level (HL) and three on the Standard Level (SL). HL courses cover more material and are allocated more hours per week.

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At Stiftsschule Engelberg, the following six IB subjects are currently taught: German Literature (HL); English B (HL); French B (SL or HL), Geography (SL); Biology (SL) and Mathematics (SL or HL).

In addition, three core components of the IB Diploma Program must be completed:

• The students must write an Extended Essay. This offers an opportunity for students to investigate a topic of particular interest and enables them to acquire expertise and abilities that will be required if they attend university.
• Theory of Knowledge: This is an interdisciplinary course that enables the student to develop a connected approach to learning – an approach that spans the boundaries between individual subjects, at the same time bringing them together in order to promote appreciation of other cultural perspectives.
• Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS): This program encourages students to participate in artistic projects, sports and social activities in local, national and international contexts.

The language of instruction and examination in the IB program is English, except in the different language subjects.

Additional information about the IB