Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) Codes

The Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) is a classification scheme of over 2,800 CIP codes and corresponding definitions instructional programs used at the national level. Its purpose is to facilitate and support the organization, collection, and reporting of fields of study and program completions. Originally developed and published in 1980 by the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), it has been revised five times, most recently in 2020. The 2020 update* of CIP codes added nearly 70 new four-digit series and more than 300 new six-digit codes to align with the development of new programs and majors.

As with the TOP codes, the CIP codes are six-digit codes with each pair of digits adding more specific detail to the content and outcomes of the course or program.

*Note: The 2020 Updates to CIP codes and corresponding definitions do not all align in our current curriculum platform, eLumen, at the course level. However, you can note the desired CIP code in eLumen and work with the CSAs to get the new 2020 CIP code connected to your course and programs.