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If you're aiming to study Computer Science at university and unsure which IB subjects to select, this guide is here to help. We'll explore the ideal subject choices to prepare you for a successful career in computing.
Which IB Subjects to choose for Computer Science
Unlike Medicine or Law, Computer Science is not always a required subject for university applications to Computer Science courses. In fact, many top universities do not require students to have studied Computer Science at school to be admitted into the course.
However, we still highly recommend taking Computer Science at IB, especially at Higher Level if available. Not only does this demonstrate your interest and commitment to the subject, which in turn can strengthen your application, it also provides you with foundational skills that will make your first year at university far more manageable.
Many universities do however often have requirements as to mathematics. Most will require students to pursue Mathematics at Higher Level, with some accepting strictly Mathematics AA. Below we provide a list of some top universities and their requirements:
Imperial College London
- Mathematics AA or AI at HL
University College London
- Mathematics AA or AI at HL BUT AA is preferred
University of Oxford
- Mathematics AA or AI at HL
University of Edinburgh
- Mathematics AA (SL or HL)
TU Delft
- Mathematics AA HL
TU Eindhoven
- Mathematics AA HL
ETH Zurich
- At HL: Mathematics AA or AI; Physics, Chemistry, or Biology; 1 Language A;
- At SL: three additional subjects of the following: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Geography, History, Economics or Business Management, 1 further language only, Computer Science.
- If students do not take the subject combination outlined above, they will have to sit the Reduced Entrance Examination ETHZ.
American universities
- Since American universities are based on a college system, there are no subject requirements. Nevertheless, studying Mathematics or Computer Science at HL can be beneficial.
Canadian universities
- Since Canadian universities are based on a college system, there are no subject requirements. Nevertheless, studying Mathematics or Computer Science at HL can be beneficial.
We hope you found this post helpful. For more useful materials associated with the IB check out the wide variety of IA, EE and TOK exemplars available at Clastify and other guides available on our blog.
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