DP Course Offerings
The DP Core

What is the IB Diploma Programme?

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) is a globally recognized, rigorous two-year academic program for juniors and seniors that prepares students for success in college and life beyond. It emphasizes intellectual challenge, intercultural understanding, and responsible citizenship. Students study across six subject groups and complete a distinctive core comprising:

  • Theory of Knowledge (TOK): A course that examines the nature of knowledge and how we claim to know what we know.

  • Extended Essay (EE): A 4,000-word independent, self-directed piece of research.

  • Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS): A component that encourages students to engage in a range of activities alongside their academic studies.

At Hillside High School, our IB Diploma Programme develops students who are inquiring, knowledgeable, and caring, and who are motivated to succeed academically and personally.

The IB Mission

"The IB develops inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through education that builds intercultural understanding and respect."

IBO Mission Statement  

   ibo.org

Why Choose the IB Diploma Programme at Hillside?

  • Global Recognition: respected by universities worldwide for its rigor and structure

  • College Readiness: IB students show high college success rates

  • Academic and Personal Growth: An IB education focuses on growing the whole student

  • Supportive Community: Experienced teachers, individualized academic advising

  • Scholarship Advantage: IB students are highly competitive for college scholarships due to the program’s academic rigor and emphasis on leadership and service

  • University Preparation: IB helps students develop the critical thinking, research, and writing skills most valued in college admissions

College Success & University Recognition

IB Diploma graduates are widely recognized as among the most prepared for college-level work. Studies show that IB students are more likely to:

  • Be accepted to top-tier universities in the U.S. and abroad

  • Receive advanced standing or credit for their IB coursework

  • Be awarded merit-based scholarships due to their strong academic profile

  • Excel in their first year of college thanks to the skills developed in the IB core (TOK, EE, CAS)

According to the International Baccalaureate Organization, universities such as Harvard, Duke, UNC-Chapel Hill, and Oxford recognize the value of the IB Diploma and consider it ideal preparation for the demands of higher education.

What Makes IB Different from Other Programs?

  • Depth and Breadth: Students take courses across all disciplines while exploring subjects in depth.

  • Interdisciplinary Learning: TOK and the Extended Essay connect learning across subjects.

  • Global Perspective: Curriculum integrates international viewpoints and cultural awareness.

  • Continuous Assessment: Through projects, essays, and external exams scored internationally.

Have Questions About the IB Diploma Programme?

If you would like more information about Hillside High School’s IB Diploma Programme or have questions about whether the program is a good fit for your student, I’m here to help.

Dr. Sanders Benkwith
IB Diploma Programme Coordinator
📍3727 Fayetteville Street, Durham, NC 27707
📧Sanders_Benkwithjr@dpsnc.net
📞(919) 560-3925 x25484