Vocational training (VT) has experienced remarkable growth in Spain in recent years, becoming an increasingly popular educational option among students. According to data from the Ministry of Education and Vocational Training published this year, in the 2021-2022 academic year, for the first time, the number of students enrolled in vocational training courses in the country has exceeded one million.
The 1,030,052 enrolled students represent a 29.8% increase in enrollment compared to the previous five years, and in the case of higher-level vocational training, there was a 40.7% increase. Most notably, 51% of students in the 2021-2022 cycle enrolled in higher-level training courses, which are offered in around 67% of the more than 3,900 centers that provide vocational training courses in Spain.
One of the most sought-after course families is Administration and Management. The data reveals that courses in this professional field have experienced increased demand, with a 13.2% growth in enrollment for higher-level vocational training. This trend is not surprising, as professionals in Administration and Finance are highly valued in the job market. The broad field of application, job stability, and emphasis on personal development – soft skills and leadership ability, for example – continue to drive sustained interest in the field.
There was also an increase in enrollments in the Commerce and Marketing family, which includes courses such as International Commerce and Marketing and Advertising. The increase in higher-level courses in this case was 7.8% over the period. The wide range of opportunities, competitive salaries, and intercultural aspects attract students interested in International Commerce, while the dynamism, constant job demand, and influence on society appeal to those interested in Marketing and Advertising.
As the vocational training market in Spain continues to rise, there is a clear demand for competitive differentiation among centers. An international profile is an important differentiator and is the focus of centers like IBP Formación Profesional in Barcelona. Located in the Eixample district, IBP is part of the Bcnlip group, which has a history of over 15 years in language education in the city and enrolls thousands of students annually.
“Our experience with an international audience adds a lot to the world of VT, as we offer training that is in high demand across Europe and emphasize language learning as a tool,” explains Sofía Pariente, General Director of the Bcnlip group and IBP Formación Profesional. The center emphasizes French and English as languages that contribute to vocational training.
French is taught as a second foreign language, and in the case of English, the course focuses on Cambridge exam preparation. “In addition to studying these languages, a percentage of the courses are taught in English, and with students from different countries, they also converse in different languages during their break times; the international environment encourages practice,” says Sofía.
Open Enrollments
IBP Formación Profesional has open enrollments until August 31 for Marketing and Advertising, International Commerce, and Administration and Finance courses. Additionally, in collaboration with Bcnlip, it also offers courses in Business Spanish and Catalan + Business. For more information, you can contact the center’s team either through this link, the form below or the email address info@ibpbarcelonafp.com.
