IB Diploma Programme Chemistry is a two-year experimental science course designed to develop critical thinking and investigative skills alongside core chemical knowledge. The curriculum is structured around two unifying concepts: Structure and Reactivity.

Students explore the fundamental makeup of matter and how it changes.

Structure: Key topics include Atomic Structure Chemical Bonding (ionic, covalent, metallic), the organisation of the Periodic Table, and the properties of the states of matter, including the behaviour of gases. You’ll master Stoichiometry (the mole concept) for precise chemical calculations.

Reactivity: This covers the “why” and “how” of chemical reactions, including Energetics (measuring energy changes), Kinetics (reaction rates), Equilibrium (reversible reactions), Acids and Bases, Redox processes, and a detailed study of Organic Chemistry (carbon compounds).

The course strongly emphasises practical work. Students engage in regular laboratory experiments, a Collaborative Sciences Project, and a compulsory Scientific Investigation (Internal Assessment – IA), which counts for 20% of the final grade.

Career Opportunities and Future Study:

• Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals: IB Chemistry is often a prerequisite for demanding degrees like Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, Pharmacy, and Biochemistry. Subsequent careers include:
• Pharmacologist or Medicinal Chemist: Developing new drugs and studying their effects.
• Clinical Research Associate: Managing clinical trials for new medicines.
• Toxicologist: Investigating the adverse effects of chemical substances.
• Chemical Engineer: Designing and developing industrial processes that turn raw materials into products (e.g., plastics, fuels, pharmaceuticals).
• Analytical Chemist: Using sophisticated techniques to determine the chemical composition and behaviour of substances in quality control, environmental monitoring, or product testing.