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Professional Development Programmes (PDP)

These fully customisable programmes are designed for German vocational schools, who want to offer their students an international business learning experience.

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Enhancing Vocational Training with International Business Expertise

For over 30 years, the European College of Business and Management (ECBM) has been a trusted provider of customised Professional Development Programmes (PDPs) for German vocational schools. To date, more than 15,000 vocational trainees from over 100 business schools across Germany have participated in our programmes.

 

Delivered in London, Dublin, or through hybrid formats, the PDP integrates:

  • Business and management training tailored to vocational education
  • International exposure and cultural immersion
  • Certificates from the German-British Chamber of Industry & Commerce, and ECBM
  • Erasmus+ funding opportunities

 

Many trainees come from leading companies, including Mercedes-Benz AG, Siemens AG, Deutsche Bank AG, and Commerzbank AG.

 

By completing both the PDP and a kaufmännische Ausbildung vocational qualification, participants can apply for the Kaufmann/-frau International Certificate (KIC), awarded by the German-British Chamber of Industry and Commerce.

  • UK | IRE International Exposure

    across Europe

  • 15,000 German Trainees

    studied with us

  • 30+ Years Collaboration

    with German Institutions

 

Develop Internationally Recognised Business Skills

The PDP enhances vocational training by combining business theory with practical application, equipping students with skills highly valued by international employers.

 

Key Competencies:

  • Business Communication
  • Linguistic Skills
  • Strategic Thinking
  • Teamwork & Leadership
  • Problem Solving
  • Project Management

 

Participants also have the opportunity to earn the Kaufmann/-frau International Certificate (KIC) - an internationally recognised qualification awarded by the German-British Chamber of Industry and Commerce (AHK GB).

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European College of Business and Management

Programme Overview

FeatureDetails
Duration1-3 week intensive course (fully customisable)
LocationDublin or London, with hybrid options available
Certification

Kaufmann/-frau International Certificate (AHK GB)*

German-British Chamber Certificate (AHK GB)

ECBM Professional Development Certificate

AHK GB English Language Certificate (Optional)

FundingVocational Schools can apply for Erasmus+ Funding
AssessmentWritten Report, Oral Presentation, Examination
Tuition FeesPrice available upon request
Career BenefitsInternational experience, advanced linguistic and intercultural competence, professional certification
*Subject to programme content

International Exposure & Cultural Experience

The PDP extends beyond academic learning, immersing students in a dynamic international environment through studies in London, Dublin, or hybrid formats.

 

Key Benefits:

  • Exposure to diverse international business practices
  • Insights from industry leaders and experts
  • Networking with peers from varied cultural and professional backgrounds

 

This global perspective enhances employability and equips students with the skills to thrive in an international business landscape.


 

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European College of Business and Management

Flexible and Interactive Learning

The PDP curriculum integrates current socio-economic and political topics with real-world business applications, providing students with practical knowledge and hands-on experience.

 

Learning Approach:

  • Seminars & Workshops
  • Case Studies & Group Projects
  • Excursions

Explore New Opportunities with ECBM

The PDP enhances the students’ current German vocational training with international experience, hands-on skills, and a recognised certification from the German-British Chamber of Industry and Commerce (AHK GB) in London. By completing both the PDP and a kaufmännische Ausbildung vocational degree, participants can apply for the Kaufmann/-frau International Certificate (KIC).

 

On completion, the students will be equipped to advance their career or continue on their academic journey with ECBM. Students who complete our professional programmes, are also eligible to apply for the Bachelor’s programme (BA/BSc), with progression routes to the Master’s programme (MSc/MBA), for which scholarships are available.


 

Since 1997, our partnership with ECBM has been built on reliability and trust, advancing the careers of 750 Betriebswirt students. We look forward to continuing and expanding it the future.

 

Mark-Stefan Sieger, Berufliche Schule Am Lämmermarkt, Hamburg

Get in touch

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Kaufmann/-frau International Certificate (KIC)

The Kaufmann/-frau International Certificate (KIC) is awarded when the participant is in possession of a 'kaufmännische Ausbildung' from an IHK and after the successful completion of a Professional Development Programme at the ECBM.

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