Further Education, Advanced Training, and Retraining – What’s the Difference?

Further Education, Advanced Training, and Retraining – What’s the Difference?

For those who wish to continue learning after completing their studies or vocational training, or for those who need to acquire new knowledge and skills for professional reasons, the available options can seem overwhelming. In this article, we aim to provide a clear overview of the different terms in the field of further education.

Professional Further Education

There is a broad distinction between "general further education" and "professional further education." The former is primarily for personal development and is usually unrelated to career advancement.

Further Education – Courses and Seminars

Further education is often used as an umbrella term for structured adult learning. Current knowledge and new skills are typically taught in a relatively short time through seminars and courses. Further education aimed at qualification adjustments can be quite demanding. Certifications such as TÜV Quality Manager, IHK Social Media Manager, TÜV Project Manager, or Environmental Manager fall under this category. These courses are generally shorter than advanced training or retraining programs.

Corporate Further Education

A specific type of professional further education is corporate further education. This occurs when an employer sponsors an employee’s participation in a seminar, course, or even advanced training. In most cases, the company covers the costs and allows the employee time off for learning.

Retraining – A "Second" Vocational Training

Retraining refers to pursuing a new career path through vocational education when a previous profession is no longer viable. Retraining typically lasts two to three years and includes practical elements. It usually concludes with a recognized professional qualification, such as a certification from the Chamber of Industry and Commerce or the Chamber of Crafts.