What is a CIP code (Classification of Instructional Programs)?
A CIP code is an entry in the National Center for Education Statistics' Classification of Instructional Programs — a standard taxonomy that identifies fields of study and supports consistent tracking and reporting of program completions.
What it means
NCES created the CIP as a taxonomic scheme to label fields of study (for example, a specific computing or cybersecurity program) so data on programs and completions can be tracked consistently across schools. CIP codes also support crosswalks to occupation codes. RoleMath uses CIP only for education-program mapping with caveats — not as an employment-outcome or program-quality claim.
Sources
- National Center for Education Statistics — Classification of Instructional Programs: https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/cipcode/
Citation Ledger
| ID | Supports | Evidence | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| CIT-01 | Definition source for What is a CIP code (Classification of Instructional Programs)? | Official source page | National Center for Education Statistics — Classification of Instructional Programs |