Comprehensive Guide to the Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP)

The Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) is a detailed taxonomy of instructional programs designed to facilitate the organization, collection, and reporting of fields of study and program completions. Developed by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), CIP codes are essential for categorizing academic and occupational programs offered at postsecondary institutions, leading to recognized completion points such as degrees, certificates, and other formal awards.

Beyond traditional academic programs, the CIP system also encompasses residency programs in various dental, medical, podiatric, and veterinary specialties, as well as personal improvement and leisure programs. It includes instructional programs that culminate in diplomas and certificates at the secondary level, making it a versatile tool for educational classification.

As the accepted federal government statistical standard for instructional program classifications, CIP codes are integral to a variety of educational information surveys and databases, serving as a cornerstone for data-driven decision-making in education.

Decoding CIP Codes: Structure and Hierarchy

The CIP system is organized into a hierarchical, three-level structure:

  • 2-digit series: Comprising 47 broad categories, this level provides a high-level overview of major fields of study.
  • 4-digit series: With 421 categories, this level offers more specific delineations within the broader categories.
  • 6-digit series: Encompassing 1,847 classifications, this level provides the most detailed breakdown of instructional programs.

Example of CIP Code Hierarchy

2-digit

14

Engineering

4-digit

14.08

Civil Engineering

6-digit

14.0804

Transportation and Highway Engineering

Broad Structure of CIP Codes

The CIP codes are organized into broad categories that cover a wide range of instructional programs. Here are some of the key categories:

2-Digit

Title Description
01 Agriculture, Agriculture Operations, and Related Sciences
03 Natural Resources and Conservation
04 Architecture and Related Services
60 Residency Programs

Who Utilizes CIP Codes?

  • National Center for Education Statistics (NCES): Utilizes CIP codes in the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) for coding degree programs.
  • Department of Education: Various offices, including the Office for Civil Rights and the Office of Vocational and Adult Education, rely on CIP codes.
  • Federal Agencies: Agencies such as the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the Department of Labor use CIP codes for program classification.
  • State Agencies and Academic Institutions: Employ CIP codes for collecting, reporting, and analyzing instructional program data.
  • Postsecondary Institutions: Use six-digit CIP codes for completing the IPEDS Completions Survey.

The Importance of CIP Codes

  • Labor Market Analysis: CIP codes are crucial for analyzing labor market supply-demand conditions and trends.
  • Educational Program Decisions: Aid in making informed decisions regarding the funding, expansion, or contraction of educational programs.
  • Curriculum Development: Essential for developing and maintaining relevant education and training curricula.
  • Career Guidance: Provide valuable information for individuals making career and educational choices or conducting job searches.

Relationships with Other Classification Systems

CIP codes are often used in conjunction with other classification systems to provide a comprehensive view of educational and occupational landscapes:

  • NAICS (North American Industry Classification System): While NAICS codes classify businesses and industries, CIP codes can be mapped to NAICS to analyze the alignment between educational programs and industry needs. This relationship helps in understanding how educational outputs meet labor market demands.
  • SOC (Standard Occupational Classification): SOC codes categorize occupations. CIP codes can be linked to SOC codes to identify the educational pathways leading to specific careers, aiding in workforce planning and development.
  • O*NET (Occupational Information Network): O*NET codes provide detailed information on job requirements and worker attributes. CIP codes can be related to O*NET codes to enhance career counseling and educational planning, ensuring that program curricula align with occupational competencies.
  • International Classification Systems: CIP codes can be aligned with international systems such as the International Standard Classification of Education (ISCED) and the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) to facilitate global educational comparisons and collaborations. This alignment is crucial for institutions with international programs and partnerships.
  • Educational Institutions and Universities: Universities and colleges use CIP codes to classify their program offerings, ensuring consistency in reporting and analysis. This relationship helps institutions align their curricula with industry standards and labor market needs, enhancing the relevance and competitiveness of their programs.

Enhancing Educational Insights with CIP Codes

As educational landscapes evolve, CIP codes remain a vital tool for understanding and navigating the complexities of instructional programs. By leveraging the detailed structure of CIP codes, educational institutions, policymakers, and students can gain deeper insights into program offerings and align them with market needs. Embrace the power of CIP codes to enhance educational planning and decision-making.