International Baccalaureate

SUNY Geneseo is proud to be a leader in recognizing the rigors of IB and supporting students who take the initiative to pursue an IB Diploma Program (IBDP) or Career-Related Program (IBCP).

We value the diverse perspectives and academic excellence that IB students bring to our community. We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment that embraces global cultures and experiences. It’s an environment in which we’re confident IB students will thrive, contribute meaningfully, and achieve their fullest potential.

The IB experience prepares students well for a Geneseo education and the journey that follows.  

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The Financial Impact of an IB Investment

IB Scholarship

Students who complete the full IBDP or IBCP will receive Geneseo's $1,000 IB Recognition Scholarship on admission.

IB Grant

A $1,500 innovation grant may be awarded in the second year of study to fuel further exploration of the extended essay topic, CAS project, or another interest of choice. Students may use it toward study abroad, an internship or research experience, or an entrepreneurial endeavor.

Earn College Credit 

Students may receive up to 30 college credits for standard and higher level IB coursework, potentially earning sophomore-level standing in their first year.

 

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A Closer Look at Curriculum

An IB education pushes students beyond the status quo of learning, immersing them in college-level writing, self-directed research, and independent thought. These skills complement Geneseo’s commitment to developing well-rounded, critically thinking, and ethically aware students prepared for global citizenship and lifelong learning.

The Extended Essay, comprising a 4,000-word research paper, requires students to conduct independent research. They select a research question, identify sources, compile and analyze data, and present their findings. A significant benefit of going through this process at the high school level is learning how to write and think critically.

The IB curriculum parallels Geneseo’s Learning Outcomes for Baccalaureate Education (GLOBE) curriculum in many ways, making it a helpful platform for understanding and preparing students for our approach to education.

Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS)

Creativity: Geneseo’s GLOBE curriculum promotes creativity through its focus on innovative thinking and the application of knowledge in novel ways. Students are encouraged to engage in creative endeavors inside and outside the classroom.

Activity: Physical activity and health are important components of the GLOBE curriculum. It encourages students to participate in physical education and to understand the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Service: Community engagement and service learning are integral to the GLOBE curriculum. Students are encouraged to engage in service projects and community work, mirroring the service component of the IB CAS program. This fosters a sense of social responsibility and civic engagement.

Theory of Knowledge (TOK)

Critical Thinking and Inquiry: IB and Geneseo students are encouraged to engage in critical and creative thinking and develop inquiry-based skills.

Interdisciplinary Approach: The TOK course encourages students to see knowledge as an interrelated, coherent whole. Similarly, GLOBE fosters multidisciplinary learning, enabling students to connect across different fields of study.

Reflective Practice

This is a key component in the IB TOK and CAS elements and Geneseo’s GLOBE curriculum. It encourages students to reflect on their learning experiences, promoting self-awareness and continuous improvement. 

 

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SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. spoke at the IB Global Conference in Washington, DC, in July 2024 about SUNY’s commitment to preparing students for the future. 

His remarks highlighted SUNY Geneseo as a "liberal arts college providing the kind of experience that so many elite private colleges in New England provide at literally 10 times the cost."