Apply Now
16-02-2024

IB Subject Combinations for Economics

IB gives learners the flexibility to choose the subjects they wish to study in the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP), which is a pre-university course. Here, learners can choose to study only subjects relevant to the college programme they wish to apply to. If you are planning to pursue Economics at college, then IB provides the perfect platform in terms of subject options and also the course curriculum to prepare you for a Bachelor's programme in the top universities and colleges anywhere in the world. In the two-year programme, the learner can build a strong academic profile to enter their dream college.

Subject Combination for Economics

IBDP has six subject groups and learners have to choose six subjects, out of these, they have to attempt 3 courses at Higher Level (HL) and 3 courses at Standard Level (SL). Along with the 6 subjects, learners have to attempt the core component which comprises -

  • Theory of Knowledge (ToK)
  • Extended essay (EE)
  • Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS)
For a learner who wants to pursue Economics in college and a professional career, the subjects they can select in IBDP are -
  • From Individuals and Societies subject group -
    • Economics (HL)
    • History
    • Global Politics
    • Digital Society
    • Geography
    • Business Management
  • From Mathematics subject group -
    • Analysis and approaches
    • Applications and interpretation
  • From Sciences subject group -
    • Environmental Systems and Societies
    • Computer Science
  • From Language Acquisition subject group -
    • Classical languages
    • Language Ab initio
    • Language B
Admission Criteria for Economics Programmes

If you are applying to a US-based college, then you must appear for SAT and TOEFL, and any other top colleges or universities in the world accept IELTS scores. The college application will include the learner’s personal statement essay, application, and high school transcript. They can include certificates of other achievements to strengthen their application. Most colleges do not have any course requirements at the high school level for candidates. So, a learner can opt for courses of their choice and still apply for the college course.

Choosing Subjects for Economics

Economics is offered as a subject so that one can choose it at HL. Mathematics is compulsory, so you can choose it at SL or HL, depending on your aptitude. IBDP students have to choose two language subjects, English is compulsory, as a second language one can choose any language, they are interested in. However, if you want to study abroad, a foreign language can be useful.

The subjects that you choose at IBDP will lay the foundation for the college programme that you wish to apply for. A degree in Economics can lead to career paths as Environment Economist, Policymaker, Law, Business Economist, Econometrics/Statistics, Data Analyst, Economist, and more. So, depending on the career path one is deciding on, one must choose the subject combination. For instance, if you are considering a career in Finance, Business or Management Studies, then you can select Business Management, Global Politics, and Digital Society.

Core Component to Strengthen One’s Profile and Skills

The EE is a 4000-word long essay that the learner has to attempt over the two years of the course. It has to be a well-researched and referenced academic examination of a topic from any subject the learner has opted for and it must delve into interdisciplinary aspects and explore an international perspective. The EE helps a learner build their research and presentation skills. College courses in Economics will have coursework where the learners have to frequently present academic papers with a proper table of contents, summary, body, conclusion and reference list. Even the ToK and CAS experience contribute towards building skill sets and acquiring experiences that will be valuable to a college programme.

Every aspect of the IBDP course curriculum contributes towards strengthening one's skills and eligibility for a college programme in Economics. You can discuss the programme requirements and eligibility with the college guidance counsellor at your school. Give some thought to what stream you wish to pursue and choose the subjects that interest you and fulfil the college admission requirement.

Latest Blogs

Featured Blogs

[ X ]
You may also be interested to know
What is the International Baccalaureate?
Brochure
logo logo logo