Title:
LIBERAL ARTS EDUCATION AND THE INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE: ELITE PATHWAYS AMID THE MASSIFICATION OF DEGREES

Authors:
Shiyun Zhang, China

Abstract:
In the age of massification, where education systems increasingly prioritise vocational training and standardised outcomes, liberal arts education and the International Baccalaureate (IB) program offer compelling counterpoints. This paper explores how these models emphasise intellectual depth, critical thinking, social responsibility, and global citizenship, preparing students not only for diverse careers but also for thoughtful engagement with complex societal issues. Grounded in the theoretical frameworks of Pierre Bourdieu and John Dewey, the analysis reveals how these elite educational pathways both empower and perpetuate social hierarchies, while also highlighting efforts to democratise access through financial aid and inclusive curricula. Empirical evidence demonstrates the success of liberal arts and IB graduates in various sectors, emphasising the enduring relevance of these models in fostering adaptable, ethically driven leaders. The paper concludes by addressing critiques related to cost and accessibility and proposes reforms to ensure these educational benefits are more widely accessible, equipping future leaders with the skills necessary to navigate an increasingly interconnected and complex world.