IB educators lead the way in providing a comprehensive international education for students.
The IB educator and leadership certificates help educators develop in many areas that benefit teaching and learning in ways that are oriented toward inquiry, research and project-based learning among other things.
Recognized programmes of study worldwide for 2023
Explore our network of universities that offer IB-recognized programmes of study leading to an IB educator or leadership certificate.
See the programmes of study and related certificates offered at the universities in our network at a glance (PDF, 75 KB).
Download this year's IB university directory (PDF, 6.3 MB).
IB educator certificates: the international symbol of excellence
Grounded in a global mindset, IB educators are catalysts for infusing higher-order thinking skills into a new generation of learners and leaders. They draw on the IB’s highly acclaimed, research-based curriculum to prepare students for global leadership roles.
The IB educator certificates, the IB certificate in teaching and learning and the IB advanced certificate in teaching and learning research, provide a rich learning experience, ongoing professional development and the flexibility to follow a learning model that best fits individuals’ career paths.
IB certificate in teaching and learning
The IB certificate in teaching and learning offers students the opportunity to examine the principles and practices associated with one of three IB programmes (Primary Years, Middle Years and Diploma Programmes). The courses that lead to this certificate shape pre-service, new and experienced educators into reflective practitioners and teacher researchers.
IB advanced certificate in teaching and learning research
The IB advanced certificate in teaching and learning research allows participants to supplement their existing IB experience with rigorous, systematic investigative work to broaden their knowledge and experience.
Participants delve deeper into curriculum development, pedagogy and assessment by exploring relevant literature and their own IB practices.
IB leadership certificates: empowering leaders to make a difference
IB leaders inspire and guide school communities to implement and sustain IB programmes at IB World Schools. IB certificates in leadership affirm the principles and practices associated with leading in the wider IB community as well as within an IB World School. The IB’s leadership framework offers two distinct leadership development experiences for IB certification.
IB certificate in leadership practice
The IB certificate in leadership practice is designed for educators and administrators who want to improve their leadership capabilities in an IB context. Participants develop and refine their capacity to play a role in guiding a school through IB authorization.
IB advanced certificate in leadership research
The IB advanced certificate in leadership research provides a more profound understanding of leadership responsibilities and capabilities through rigorous investigative work. It includes research within IB leadership contexts as well as deep reflection on participants’ own leadership practice.
Gaining an IB educator or leadership certificate
“This program taught me a lot of helpful knowledge and methods in IB education and I would recommend this program to all who want to be professional teachers.”
-Eun Jung Lee, DePaul University 2023
To gain a certificate simply enroll in a program of study at one of our IB-recognized universities.
Upon completion of your program of study, you may register for the applicable certificate with the IB. The IB educator certificate is USD 275. If you have any questions, you can reach our team via email, or read our frequently asked questions (PDF, 166 KB).
Download the IB educator and leadership certificates brochure for:
