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Accredited Project Management Courses (GPM/IPMA, PRINCE2) in Germany
Which project management certifications are recognized in Germany?
Germany relies on several international systems to qualify project managers. The most prominent are:
| Certification | Issuing body | International recognition | Popularity in Germany |
|---|---|---|---|
| GPM/IPMA | GPM – Deutsche Gesellschaft für Projektmanagement e. V. | Recognized by IPMA | Widely used across Germany |
| PRINCE2 | Axelos (UK) via training partners | Globally recognized | Common in international companies |
| PMP | PMI (Project Management Institute – USA) | Top-tier global credential | Used in global corporations |
First: GPM / IPMA Certification
What is it?
A strongly established German project management system, aligned with the IPMA (International Project Management Association).
It focuses on personal, behavioral, and methodological competencies.
Levels:
| Level | Name | Target group |
|---|---|---|
| Level D | Certified Project Management Associate | Beginners |
| Level C | Certified Project Manager | Professionals with practical experience |
| Level B | Senior Project Manager | Advanced professionals |
| Level A | Director in Project Management | Leaders of major programs |
Course duration:
Between 5 and 15 days, depending on the level.
Cost:
Around €2,000 to €5,000.
Training providers:
-
GPM Akademie
-
Tiba Managementberatung
-
IHK (some branches)
Second: PRINCE2 Certification
What is it?
A UK-based project management method focusing on process control and deliverables/outcomes.
Certification types:
| Level | Name | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation | Core principles | No experience required |
| Practitioner | Practical application | After Foundation |
Course duration:
Foundation: 3 days
Practitioner: 2 additional days
Cost:
Between €1,000 and €2,500 (including the exam).
Training providers:
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TÜV Süd Akademie
-
New Horizons
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DGI Deutsche Gesellschaft für Informationssicherheit
-
LinkedIn Learning or Simplilearn (remote)
What’s the difference between them?
| Criteria | GPM/IPMA | PRINCE2 |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | German/European | British |
| Focus | Competencies + tools | Processes and steps |
| Market presence | Very strong in Germany | Strong in Europe & internationally |
| Language | Mostly German | Mostly English (sometimes with translations) |
When should you choose each one?
-
Choose GPM/IPMA if you are targeting German local companies or public institutions.
-
Choose PRINCE2 if you work in international companies, IT environments, or global projects.
Is funding possible?
Yes. These courses may be funded through:
-
A Bildungsgutschein from the Jobcenter or the Agentur für Arbeit
-
Company Weiterbildung programs under §82 SGB III
-
IHK funding or regional programs such as Weiterbildung Bayern/NRW/…
-
Special discounts via IHK registration or as an employee in Weiterbildung
ـ* The editorial team of the website strives to provide accurate information through extensive research and consultation of multiple sources. However, errors may occur or some information may be uncertain. Please treat the content as initial guidance and always consult the relevant authorities for confirmed information.
