IB Science

Chemistry, Computer Science, Environmental Sustainability, Physics, and Sports Science

IB Group 4 courses dive into how science explains the natural world—through concepts, models, and hands-on investigation. You’ll design and run experiments, collect and analyze data, and connect scientific ideas to real-world problems in health, environment, technology, and sport.

Choose a one-year SL course or a two-year HL sequence for deeper study. Along the way, you’ll sharpen inquiry, problem-solving, and evidence-based reasoning—the skills that power college STEM work and in-demand careers.

Open to: Grades 11–12 Dublin City Schools students
Course length: SL = 1 year (1 period daily) • HL = 2 years (1 period daily)
Transportation: Free shuttle between home high schools and Emerald Campus
Enrollment: Varies by course; readiness for lab work and independent investigation. Access the district High School Scheduling page for more details.
Cost: Free • Optional IB exam fee for official IB Exam participation
Recognition: Weighted 5.0 credit • May earn college credit based on IB exam performance and university policy
Contact: Home school counselor or IB Coordinator (Snodgrass_Sondra@dublinschools.net) for guidance and next steps

Overview

Group 5: IB Science Courses Overview

Group 4 focuses on core scientific principles, real-world applications, and interdisciplinary connections. You’ll practice the scientific method—posing questions, planning methods, generating and analyzing data, and evaluating conclusions—while considering the impact of science on society and the environment.

Participation Options

Select a one-year SL course (Computer Science, Environmental Systems & Societies, Physics, Sports/Exercise/Health) or pursue a two-year HL sequence (Chemistry HL, Computer Science HL, Sports/Exercise/Health HL) for extended depth and additional topics.

Credit Summary

SL: 1 year • 1 HS credit (weighted 5.0)
HL: 2 years • 2 HS credits total (weighted 5.0 each year)

Students completing official IB assessments may qualify for college credit or advanced standing depending on scores and university policies.

Eligibility & Enrollment

Open to juniors and seniors with solid foundations in science and math. Comfort with quantitative reasoning, lab safety, and technical writing is recommended.

Who Should Participate

Ideal for students interested in STEM fields—including engineering, computing, health sciences, environmental studies, sport science, and research—who enjoy inquiry and hands-on problem-solving.

Things to Note

Assessments blend internal investigations/projects with written exams focused on data analysis and application of theory.
Environmental Systems & Societies SL may satisfy Group 3 or Group 4 for IB Diploma students.

IB Assessment (at a glance)

Chemistry HL: Student-designed practical investigation; written exams on core/HL topics and calculations.
Computer Science SL/HL: Design-and-build software project; written exams on algorithms, systems, and programming.
Environmental Systems & Societies SL: Fieldwork or research investigation; written exam on environmental science and human systems.
Physics SL: Practical investigation; written exam on mechanics, waves, electricity, and modern physics.
Sports, Exercise & Health SL/HL: Applied investigation; written exam on physiology, training, nutrition, and performance analysis.

Course Information

IB Science Course Options

IB Chemistry HL — Year 1 (Code: 521) / Year 2 (Code: 522)

Grades 11–12 IB HL — 2 Years

Investigate structure, bonding, energetics, kinetics, and equilibrium through labs and data-driven analysis. Build strong quantitative and problem-solving skills for advanced STEM study.

IB Computer Science SL — (Code: 543)

Grades 11–12 IB SL — 1 Year

Study algorithms, programming fundamentals, and computer systems. Complete a software project that solves a real problem for an authentic user.

IB Computer Science HL — Year 1 (Code: 547) / Year 2 (Code: 548)

Grades 11–12 IB HL — 2 Years

Go deeper into data structures, algorithmic thinking, and large-scale design. Build a substantial software solution and analyze ethical and societal impacts of computing.

IB Environmental Systems & Societies SL — (Code: 525)

Grades 11–12 IB SL — 1 Year

Explore ecosystems, resources, and sustainability through fieldwork and systems thinking. Evaluate environmental trade-offs and policy implications.

May satisfy Group 3 or Group 4 for IB Diploma students.

IB Physics SL — (Code: 523)

Grades 11–12 IB SL — 1 Year

Investigate motion, forces, energy, electricity, waves, and modern physics through labs and modeling. Emphasis on quantitative problem-solving and data literacy.

IB Sports, Exercise & Health Science SL — (Code: 523)

Grades 11–12 IB SL — 1 Year

Study human anatomy, physiology, training, and performance. Apply scientific concepts to sport and health contexts using data and lab investigations.

IB Sports, Exercise & Health Science HL — Year 1 (Code: 596) / Year 2 (Code: 597)

New 25-26

Grades 11–12 IB HL — 2 Years

Extend SL topics with deeper physiology, biomechanics, and performance analysis. Design an applied investigation linking sport science to real training or health scenarios.

For the most up-to-date course information and descriptions, see the Academic Programs and Pathways resource.

Quick Links

Future Pathways

IB Sciences courses—including Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Environmental Systems & Societies, and Sports, Exercise & Health Science—combine inquiry, experimentation, and analysis to help students understand the natural world and its applications. These courses prepare students for success in scientific, medical, and engineering fields while developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for innovation.

After High School or 2-Year College

IB Science students gain strong foundations for college-level lab courses and STEM majors. Many universities recognize IB Science coursework for general education or prerequisite credit. Possible next steps include:

Continue advanced science study in Biology, Chemistry, or Physics at the college level.
Enroll in pre-health, pre-engineering, or environmental studies pathways.
Participate in undergraduate research, STEM internships, or sustainability initiatives.
Apply IB lab and research experience toward honors programs or scholarships.

After 4-Year College or University

IB Science graduates are highly sought after in fields requiring data-driven reasoning, lab proficiency, and creative problem-solving. Students often continue into careers or graduate programs in:

Medicine, nursing, pharmacy, or biomedical sciences.
Engineering, computer science, or applied mathematics.
Environmental science, sustainability, or renewable energy.
Scientific research, laboratory technology, or academia.

Career & Professional Readiness

IB Science students learn to design experiments, interpret data, and communicate results—skills directly applicable to careers in research, technology, and healthcare. These skills prepare them to succeed in:

Healthcare and medical professions.
Engineering, architecture, and design.
Data analysis, technology, and computer science.
Science communication, public policy, and education.

Entrepreneurship & Personal Growth

IB Science fosters curiosity, persistence, and innovation. Students apply scientific thinking beyond the lab to create meaningful change. Graduates often:

Launch or contribute to start-ups in health tech, biotech, or environmental innovation.
Develop projects that promote sustainability and global health awareness.
Combine science with design, business, or communication to bridge STEM with social impact.

Student Experience

International Baccalaureate (IB) Student Experience

Video: The IB Advantage

The IB program at Dublin City Schools provides students with a competitive advantage in our increasingly connected global economy. Built on a cohesive, multi-faceted approach that develops students who flourish physically, intellectually, emotionally, and ethically, the IB Diploma is recognized worldwide for rigorous coursework and highly trained educators. Whether a student takes one IB course or pursues the full Diploma, every IB learning experience at Emerald Campus is aligned with global standards used in over 147 countries.

What Every IB Course Offers

Global Awareness & Internationalism

Courses emphasize global perspectives and intercultural understanding.

International Standards

IB students and teachers use a globally consistent curriculum recognized in 147+ countries.

Preparation for College

IB graduates are well prepared for college-level work and often receive preferential admission consideration.

Unique Assessments

Students show learning through labs, performances, portfolios, and research papers in addition to final exams.

Interdisciplinary Learning

Diploma students connect ideas across subjects, integrating knowledge through thematic study.

Research Skills & Inquiry

Inquiry-based learning builds advanced research and analytical thinking skills.

Research & Outcomes

IB students’ university acceptance rates are 22% higher than the general population.
IB acceptance at Ivy League institutions averages 13% higher than overall rates.

What Universities Say

“One of the advantages of an IB curriculum is its structure and quality… We know the quality of IB courses, and we think the IB curriculum is terrific.”

— Christoph Guttentag, Duke University

“IB is well known to us for excellent preparation. Success in an IB programme correlates well with success at Harvard.”

— Marilyn McGrath Lewis, Harvard University

“Send us prepared students a la IB… It is the best high school prep curriculum an American school can offer.”

— Marilee Jones, former MIT Admissions Director

Alumni Perspectives

“Unlike other accelerated programs, IB builds a close-knit community and prepares you for global collaboration.”

— Alex Vompe, Class of 2015

“IB creates lifelong friendships and prepares students for success in college.”

— Emma Robinson, Class of 2020

“It allowed me to grow in an exponential way. I feel more equipped for the college workload because I took IB.”

— Maxly Gasca, Class of 2020

“IB let us dive deeper and explore different cultures and literature. It truly broadened my view.”

— Helena Von Sadovszky, Class of 2020

“The IB community of students and teachers is a true support system that encourages collaboration.”

— Misha Lee, Class of 2020

“IB prepares students well for managing multiple responsibilities — a key to college success.”

— Riley Hoover, Class of 2020