Explore the IBCP: Bridging Education and Career Aspirations
As a traditional and formal IB school, Dulwich College Suzhou has been using the IBDP program for more than 15 years. Over the past two years, we have introduced the IBCP as a new learning path for our students and DCSZ is the only school in Suzhou currently having this program available.
The IBCP is designed for students who want to fast-track their studies and focus on a particular industry or career field. Mr Stewart Paterson, Assistant Head of Senior School and IB Coordinator, has organized many information sessions for our parents and students, allowing them to gain a better understanding of the differences between the IBDP and IBCP, so they can decide which option is the best fit for them.
- Mr Stewart Paterson, Assistant Head of Senior School and IB Coordinator
From my perspective, there are two main advantages to the IBCP. Firstly, students who are lucky enough to have already found their calling in life can dive into their main area of passion and specialise in subjects that are of interest to them and that they have strong expertise in. Students who learn about and through areas of interest to them are generally happier, more engaged, highly motivated and successful in their studies.
Secondly, the ability for IBCP students to begin their university studies in Year 12 offers them an unparalleled opportunity to fast-track their undergraduate degrees and graduate up to eighteen months faster than their IBDP counterparts. This accelerates their progression into their chosen career-field whilst potentially saving our students and families a considerable amount of money in university fees. This is an advantage that is unique to the IBCP and the partnerships that we have created for our school community here at DCSZ.
Currently, among all Year 12 students, two have chosen to pursue the IBCP as their learning path. They are in the process of studying IBCP, so let’s take a look at their insights and background information!
Yun Yang Y – SCAD game design studies
I chose IBCP with a focus on SCAD game design studies as my academic path. The IBCP program allows me to plan for my future and connect what I have learned to my career aspirations. For example, the Personal and Professional Skills (PPS) course helps me better prepare for my future career.
Additionally, I am taking five online SCAD courses, which enable me to engage with university-level content and gain a broader understanding of game design. Game design is my passion. I love playing games, and during my time in junior school, I learned coding, which I truly enjoyed. It would be amazing to link my interests with my career, and IBCP provides the perfect opportunity to dive deeper into what I love and develop my skills whilst allowing me to fast-track my undergraduate studies.
Currently, I am enrolled in four DP courses: Computer Science, Physics, and Mathematics at higher level, along with English B at standard level. In addition, I am also taking online SCAD courses. I believe the biggest challenge in the IBCP program is time management. My online courses are scheduled from 9:00 PM to 11:00 PM every Tuesday and Thursday due to the time difference. Therefore, it's crucial for me to balance my subjects, complete my assignments, and manage my schoolwork alongside the online courses. Although I was initially nervous about joining the SCAD online courses, my teacher provided significant support, and I eventually adjusted well. Mr Paterson has also been a great help throughout my IBCP journey. I am energetic and determined, and I will strive to achieve my goals.
Miyu T - Sport studies
The IBCP is a specialized academic program that allows me to focus on sports-related studies, which aligns with my future career goals.
Currently, in addition to my four IBDP courses—Mathematics AA and English A at standard level, and Sports, Exercise and Health Science and Business at higher level—I am also taking three online courses offered by the World Academy of Sports. These online courses help me expand my knowledge and understanding of International Sports Business and my global network, as the students at the World Academy come from diverse international backgrounds.
Because the IBCP is more specialized, it connects real-life experiences to my learning. My professor is highly experienced and has previously worked at the Olympics, providing me with valuable insights into my future career options and helping me gain a clearer vision of my path. I regularly play volleyball, basketball, football, and netball, and I enjoy swimming and running. Sports are my passion. Although I had to reduce my swimming and running due to IGCSE preparation, I still participate in other sports. I may choose to pursue sports physiology, sports marketing, management, or other related fields. It’s truly rewarding to connect what I love with my career.
Thank you to Miyu and Yun Yang for their valuable insights. They are pursuing their dreams through the IBCP program, and we look forward to seeing those dreams come to fruition in the future. Stay tuned for more updates!
