DP Environmental Systems & Societies

The IB Diploma Programme (DP) Environmental Systems and Societies (ESS) curriculum has undergone significant revisions, effective from August 2024, with the first assessments scheduled for May 2026. A notable change is the introduction of the course at both Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL), offering students the opportunity to engage with environmental studies in greater depth.

The updated curriculum is structured around three central key concepts: perspectives, systems, and sustainability. These concepts are introduced in the foundational topic and are interwoven throughout the course to promote a holistic understanding of environmental issues. 

For HL students, the curriculum includes additional content that delves deeper into environmental challenges through ethical, legal, and economic lenses. This approach encourages a more comprehensive analysis and evaluation of environmental topics. 

The assessment structure has been updated to reflect these changes, with both SL and HL students undertaking a common internal assessment and participating in a collaborative science project. This project fosters interdisciplinary learning and practical application of theoretical knowledge.

Click here for a subject overview