Is IB Physics a Two-Year Course?

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Standard Level of Physics is a two-year program designed to give students an introduction to the laws of physics, the experimental techniques used in physics, and the social and historical aspects of physics as an ever-evolving body of human knowledge about nature. Both HL and SL are two-year courses (for Visual Arts & Theater). MUSIC SL is taught every two years and is a one-year course. The IB Physics course is two years for a good reason. It takes two years to develop the advanced problem-solving skills and expert examination technique needed to achieve the coveted “7” grade on the IB physics exams. is a two-year program designed to give students an introduction to the laws of physics, the experimental techniques used in physics, and the social and historical aspects of physics as an ever-evolving body of human knowledge about nature. Both HL and SL are two-year courses (for Visual Arts & Theater). MUSIC SL is taught every two years and is a one-year course. The IB Physics course is two years for a good reason. It takes two years to develop the advanced problem-solving skills and expert examination technique needed to achieve the coveted “7” grade on the IB physics exams.

IB Physics problems have multiple levels, cover different topics, and are based on an underlying basis of mathematical knowledge. No matter where you are in your IB Physics journey, this free IB Physics study starter package will help you organize your class work, improve scores on class exams, and excel at exam review. The additional study will include the optional topics of mechanics, atomic and nuclear physics, energy, biomedical physics, historical physics, astrophysics, relativity, and optics. As part of the IB Physics course, you'll cover additional subjects of your choice from the list below (usually chosen by your teacher). The internal evaluation includes documented laboratory experiments and reflections; the externally evaluated exams cover the principles of physics applied to the course content.

It is highly recommended that you study Physics if you want to pursue a career in any specialty of science or applied sciences. The curriculum during the second year of the course includes topics such as electricity and magnetism, waves, optics, thermodynamics, and nuclear physics. In order for you to make progress in IB Physics, it is important that you both foster a relationship of mutual respect. Both IB Physics SL and HL have the same basic requirements consisting of the same number of hours. The collaborative science project offers an excellent opportunity for students to work with those who are taking other PD science courses, either in their own school or in other IB World Schools.

The physics curriculum is grouped into five broad organizational topics, each of which is subdivided into several topics. This is a relatively fast-paced course that will prepare students for college-level physics courses. Relevant and effective physical education should reflect social change with a greater focus on skills and the interconnection of concepts, contexts, and content, and facilitate student deep learning and understanding. Physics knowledge gained through the Physics course of the IB Diploma Program can be applied to Biology and Medicine, which are the foundations of the medical and veterinary professions.

Dr. Julian Mercer
Dr. Julian Mercer

Archetype:The International Baccalaureate Learning ArchitectAn educator who understands the IB not simply as a curriculum, but as a philosophy of learning. Dr. Mercer blends classroom experience, global education insight, and practical tutoring expertise.Background:Dr. Julian Mercer is a former IB Diploma Programme Coordinator and Theory of Knowledge (TOK) teacher with 18 years of experience in international schools across the UK, Europe, and the Middle East. He later transitioned into academic mentoring and tutor training, specialising in:• IB subject-specific tutoring (Maths AA/AI, Sciences, Humanities)• academic coaching for the IB’s unique demands: EE, IA, CAS• university admissions perspectives for IB students (UK, US, EU)• tutoring pedagogy + structuring high-impact sessions• starting and scaling online tutoring businesses• global tutoring platforms, marketing, and income strategies• parent decision-making: when to hire a tutor, how to evaluate qualityDr. Mercer writes with a voice that is measured, internationally informed, empathic, and deeply strategic, ideal for guiding families, tutors, and students navigating the IB ecosystem.Tone Signature:Worldly, reflective, structured, supportive, academically authoritative.

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