Number of units
12
Number of lessons
243
Duration
2 years
Level
Higher
About the course
Admissions processOverview
IB Computer Science HL, part of the IB Diploma Programme’s Group 4: Sciences, gives students a strong foundation in computational thinking, problem-solving and programming. The course explores core topics such as computer systems, networks, databases, software development and the principles behind emerging fields like machine learning. Students are also encouraged to consider the ethical, social and cultural impact of computing in a global context.
Through a balance of theory and hands-on application, students learn to code in Java and apply their knowledge to real-world challenges - from designing efficient databases to evaluating the opportunities and risks of artificial intelligence. Alongside technical expertise, the course fosters logical reasoning, creativity and critical thinking — skills that are central to the IB Learner Profile and highly valued in higher education and technology careers.
Computer Science is available at both Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL), with students sharing a common core curriculum and HL learners studying additional units in greater depth.
Studied online with Pamoja, IB Computer Science HL combines academic rigour with flexibility, enabling students to learn from experienced IB teachers and collaborate with peers worldwide.
Advice from our teachers
To succeed in the HL course, students should plan to dedicate seven to ten hours per week to their studies.
*Please note, that all courses offered are subject to receiving a minimum enrolment number. Your Pamoja point of contact will be in touch as we approach the start date if we are unable to take a course forward.
Course structure
The course covers the following topics:
Year 1:
- Introduction
- Computer Fundamentals
- Computational Thinking
- Programming 1
- Networks
- Databases
- Programming 2
Year 2:
- Machine Learning
- Abstract Data-types
- Case Study
- Paper 1 - Exam Preparation
- Paper 2 - Exam Preparation
Benefits of the course
Taking IB Computer Science HL online will enable students to:
Resources
Explore and access key resources for the IB Computer Science HL course.
Why online?
Students will have the opportunity to:
- Access a structured and supportive learning environment.
- Study alongside international peers.
- Complete coding tasks using modern tools in a flexible setting.
- Apply their knowledge to practical, student-led projects.
Some things won’t be different though. Standards and expectations will be just as high as in a face to face classroom.
Activities and assessment
Assessment includes written responses, coding tasks, project work, and class discussions. HL students complete an internal assessment where they design, develop and evaluate a computing solution. Learning is supported through discussion forums, journals, email and live lessons. Engagement is also monitored through Pamoja’s internal assessment criteria.
Interested?
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Testimonials
What our schools say about us
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"The International School of WA is delighted to continue to work with Pamoja, who has supported us in providing a wide range of subjects for our International Baccalaureate students."
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"Pamoja has expanded our subject offerings with programs we couldn’t provide in-house, giving our students valuable opportunities through a reliable and trusted partner."
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"Heidelberg International School has proudly partnered with Pamoja since 2010, enabling us to offer IB subjects beyond our own curriculum and expanding our students’ choices; their teachers bring a vital human connection to online learning, and our students have consistently achieved excellent results through this collaboration."
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"Chatsworth is very pleased to be able to broaden the range of IB Diploma Programme subjects we can offer through our partnership with Pamoja. Knowing the students are taught and assessed by experienced IBDP teachers gives us the confidence to offer this opportunity."
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"Pamoja teachers are fully supportive of the diverse stresses and schedules students face. Learning to proactively and professionally communicate is arguably the most important learning outcome for Pamoja students."
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"Pamoja opens doors for our students to pursue subjects they are passionate about, helping them thrive in areas otherwise out of reach. The team’s support and clear communication make the experience smooth and impactful for everyone."
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"Ermitage International School of Paris is proud to collaborate with PAMOJA. The consistently high-quality and well-structured courses PAMOJA provides play a key role in helping our students pursue their ideal path toward the IB Diploma."
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"Pamoja has been extremely responsive and professional in our partnership. They have helped us to support students in a variety of situations, including those who have transferred in the middle of the IB Diploma, who have scheduling conflicts, or who have strong desire to study a course that we do not offer."
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"Pamoja online courses allow us to expand the range of subjects offered to our students enabling them to pursue subjects they are passionate about that are not currently available within our timetable. The courses also help foster independent learning; an invaluable skill helping students flourish as lifelong learners."
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"Pamoja has enabled us to broaden our subject option choices and provide invaluable support for Extended Essay supervision in popular subjects. As a result, our students have been able to select an individualised course profile which would not have been possible otherwise."
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"Pamoja has been a wonderful opportunity for our students to pursue passions and interests that we can’t offer as a small school. We have found the teachers to be consistently dedicated and support team to always respond with a human touch!"
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"Our partnership with Pamoja provides students with access to a wide range of IB subjects, ensuring greater academic breadth and choice. The online nature of these courses offers the flexibility our student-athletes need to pursue their studies effectively, even while away training or competing."
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"Pamoja has enabled us to expand our subject offerings to better address our students' language acquisition needs. Their highly responsive and accommodating teachers made us feel supported every step of the way."
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"For a school like ours, which is intentionally 'small by design,' Pamoja provides essential strategic flexibility. It allows us to supplement our DP course offerings, ensuring students interested in specialized or low-enrollment subjects can pursue their pre-university plans."
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The variety of subjects offered really allows the school to offer individual pathways for a wide range of students. Students completing a course on Pamoja strengthen the ATL of self-management and are ready for the next steps in life - university or employment.
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Pamoja unlocks opportunities for our students to pursue their passions beyond our high school's course catalog, opening doors to subjects like Economics and Psychology that would otherwise be unavailable to them.
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“Partnering with Pamoja has given our students greater flexibility in shaping their Diploma Programme journey. We value the supportive collaboration that allows us to broaden our course offering and meet diverse student needs.”
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"Working with Pamoja has been a transformative experience, offering quick, responsive service and a student-centred approach that prioritises individual needs and supports success in the IB DP subject."
