With GPM and IPMA®
successfully through every project
The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Projektmanagement e.V. (GPM) is the leading professional association for project management in Germany. Its central concern is the systematic provision and dissemination of practical and proven project management knowledge. It offers ideal career support for everyone involved in a project. The GPM certification program is based on the international competence standard ICB of the International Project Management Association (IPMA®) and offers an individually tailored career path from the first contact in projects to expert knowledge at the highest level. Certification according to this standard enjoys worldwide recognition, a common project management language and thus a foundation for international cooperation.

IPMA® level
in the GPM competence model

The right level for each -
from newcomers to managers
Basic level - for project management newcomers
The basic level is suitable for all newcomers who have had no or only very rudimentary contact with project management. GPM/IPMA® requires three training days for the subsequent examination at PM-ZERT.
The (optional) examination does not take place as part of the training, but the trainer will provide you with detailed advice and support on questions relating to the examination at PM-ZERT.
- The examination fee is not included in the price.
- The certificate can be used as a prerequisite for an "upgrade" to IPMA® Level D can be recognized.
There are no admission requirements.
Level D - for prospective project managers or Employees in projects
The Level D course is suitable for inexperienced or less experienced (partial) project managers who want to underpin their role with sound project management knowledge.
The (optional) examination does not take place as part of the training, but the trainer will provide you with detailed advice and support on questions relating to the examination at PM-ZERT.
- The examination fee is not included in the price.
- The course consists of extensive e-learning plus 6 training days.
Our trainer will advise you on all aspects of the PM ZERT exam training - from registration to the exam.
Level C - for managers
The Level C course is suitable for (sub-) project managers of larger and moderately complex projects who want to expand their existing knowledge and skills in project management and in leading project personnel and who want to prove this with a high-quality certificate.
The (optional) examination does not take place as part of the training, but the trainer will provide you with detailed advice and support on questions relating to the examination at PM-ZERT.
- The examination fee is not included in the price.
- As a "first-time certifier", you attend the combination course (total duration approx. 13 days).
- Step-by-step preparation for the optional PM-ZERT certification.
Level D/C - for Employees with project management experience
You do not yet have a Level D certificate, but already have at least 3 years of project management experience in moderately complex projects and want to obtain the Level C certificate directly? This combination course of the IPMA® makes it possible and prepares you with the necessary knowledge of Level D and Level C for the optional examination for the IPMA® Level C - Certified Project Manager.
The (optional) examination does not take place as part of the training, but the trainer will provide you with detailed advice and support on questions relating to the examination at PM-ZERT.
- The examination fee is not included in the price.
Certified examination
PM-ZERT
PM-ZERT is the independent certification body of GPM. Experienced and independent assessors guide you through the examinations and evaluate your results. With a certificate issued by PM-ZERT, you receive objective, practical and internationally recognized proof of your competence and qualification in project management.
Please always refer directly to the PM-ZERT website for information on the current requirements and fees. It is the body that sets and checks the examination requirements.
Career levels of IPMA®
The right level for everyone.
Strengths of the GPM competence model
based on IPMA®

- The focus is on people and their expertise.
- Hybrid approach: PM methods from linear to agile.
- Lifelong and career-accompanying skills development.
- Direct entry into each level depending on experience level International recognition ticket.
- Strengthening companies in the network of project management experts.
- The skills of your Employees increase efficiency and innovative strength.
ICB4
Competence standard and competence elements
Competence standard
Since 2019, we have been offering the new global standard for project, program and portfolio management, the Individual Competence Baseline 4.0 (ICB), replacing ICB 3.0.
This new IPMA® qualification line offers you the opportunity to expand and deepen your knowledge in project management. In our courses based on the IPMA® Competence Baseline 4.0, you will learn and train everything you need to professionally and efficiently ensure the success of your project and prepare for the optional GPM certifications from PM-ZERT (basic certificate, IPMA® Level D, IPMA® Level C).
Competence elements
All levels cover the three competence areas
Context skills (Perspective)
Personal and social skills (People)
Technical skills (Practice)
Depending on the level, the knowledge is structured and taught in varying depths.
Do you have any questions?
We are there for you Monday to Friday from 8:00 to 17:00.
