Associate's Degree & IB Diploma at RHS What's the difference?

What is... The IB Diploma The IB Diploma is a two - year, rigorous, course of study in six core classes and a variety of extracurriculars with an international, inquiry - based philosophy. The successful end result is gaining the skills and foundation for college success and earning an IB Diploma that is recognized for advanced standing at universities worldwide. The Associate's Degree The Associate's Degree is a two - year, rigorous, course of study in a wide variety of courses that are taught for concurrent credit via Idaho universities. The successful end result is earning a full Associate's Degree from ISU.

Prerequisites and Preparation The IB Diploma No GPA requirement Good study habits Good attendance Interest in interconnected curricula Interest in concept, project, and discussion - based learning The Associate’s Degree 3.0 Cumulative GPA Good study habits Good attendance Your counselor must sign off on your CC applications verifying compliance

How much does it cost? The IB Diploma approx. $150 registration fee approx. $110 per IB class (6) Total cost for full Diploma: $850 (as of 2014). Pay a ‘lump’ fee to Renaissance - you pay part of it in the spring of your junior year and the remainder in the fall of your senior year. The Associate's Degree concurrent credit classes incur charges on a credit - by - credit basis at the cost of $65 per credit This is a greatly reduced cost compared to the colleges’ standard tuition Total cost for full Associate's Degree: $4,160- $4,420. Pay as you go (as you take credits), directly to the college

What classes do I take? The IB Diploma A signature element of the IB Diploma is that students take the same courses, in -depth, for two years. Students at RHS take: English HL Language - 3 options o Arabic, Mandarin, Spanish History HL or Anthropology SL Biology or Chemistry SL or HL Math - 2 levels Art or Music SL or HL **HL classes are weighted on a 5- point scale** The Associate's Degree The Associate's Degree offers a wider range of semester - long individual classes. Students at RHS take college credits toward an Associate's of Arts in General Studies. Two summer classes are taken at College of Western Idaho (CWI).

What are the "extras"? The IB Diploma Focuses on the development of the whole person as member of a learning community. The central elements are: CAS - Creativity, Activity, and Service (150 hours of extracurriculars) The EE - Extended Essay (an independent research project) TOK - Theory of Knowledge (an RHS graduation requirement) The Associate's Degree Requires summer courses. Minimum of 6 credits taken at CWI and/or on-line. Keeping track of your credits

Tell me more about college credit The IB Diploma Is highly regarded at the most selective universities worldwide. In the US, earning the full Diploma often translates to earning a year's worth of college credit. IB graduates are also more likely to be admitted to selective programs and are eligible for specific scholarships, honor colleges, and other "perks". Check individual college websites for their IB policies. The Associate's Degree Is equivalent to the first two years of college and is accepted at Idaho public universities (BSU, ISU, UofI). At other colleges and universities, the degree is accepted, but individual credits may not transfer. Credits are not as widely accepted out of state or at private institutions. Parents and students are encouraged to research the policies at colleges of interest.

Which program is better for me? The IB Diploma Focuses on learning within big ideas and concepts with students as members of an engaged cohort More likely to earn college credits at private and public colleges and universities The Associate's Degree Focuses on learning within specific content areas geared toward college credits More likely to earn college credits at Idaho public universities **Renaissance and both of these programs are focused on COLLEGE PREPARATION. They are challenging, well - rounded programs that have shown to be excellent preparation for the rigors of advanced college - level study.

Questions? The IB Diploma Contact Andrew Hunter, IB Coordinator Visit: The Associate's Degree Contact Dr. Shana Hawkins, Principal, or Heidi Freeney & Kelly Hahs, counselors