Our Legacy

Niels Brock is named after one of Denmark’s greatest merchants – a visionary businessman dedicated to renewing Danish society. He believed that education and business skills were essential for societal reform. Based on his will, and guided by his vision, Niels Brock’s business college was founded in 1881 and quickly became a well-regarded provider of upper secondary and higher education.

The Visionary Legacy of Niels Brock

Born in 1731, Niels Brock was a pioneering Danish merchant who left a remarkable legacy when he passed away in 1802. His sizeable estate was dedicated to establishing a school of commerce, aimed at educating young self-made businessmen.

In his will, Niels Brock emphasized that the college should be accessible to gifted children from all layers of society – not just the wealthy. 

His vision included fostering entrepreneurship and cultural understanding, values shaped by his own experience in conducting international business.

The Founding of Denmark’s Oldest Business College

In 1881, nearly 80 years after Niels Brock’s death, his vision became a reality with the establishment of Niels Brock’s business college. As Denmark’s oldest business college, it quickly gained a reputation for excellence in both upper secondary and higher education.

Niels Brock also played a pivotal role in developing the Higher Commercial Examination (HHX), marking the beginning of Denmark’s business education movement.

Tradition, Innovation, and Excellence

Niels Brock’s legacy is built on strong traditional values and an international outlook combined with an enduring commitment to innovation.

This combination allows the institution to attract highly skilled and dedicated employees who ensure the personal and professional growth of every student. 

The merchant’s will also highlighted the importance of innovation as a driver of success—a principle that continues to shape the college’s offerings.

A Merchant with a Global Vision

The merchant Niels Brock was ahead of his time, embodying a truly global perspective. His business ventures extended far beyond Denmark, reaching the Baltic countries and other international markets.

This global outlook laid the foundation for Niels Brock’s enduring commitment to international education.

Pioneering International Education

Niels Brock has a long history of breaking new ground in global education. In the early 1990s, our school became active in former Soviet Union countries such as Estonia and Ukraine, offering international programs tailored to industry needs. These efforts reflected the college’s dedication to fostering knowledge exchange across borders.

Expanding into Asia

In 1999, Niels Brock launched its first joint programme in Shanghai, China, marking a significant milestone as Denmark’s first educational institution to operate beyond its borders.

This international expansion continued with the establishment of a programme in Hanoi, Vietnam, in 2010. These initiatives not only demonstrate Niels Brock’s pioneering spirit but also its commitment to delivering world-class education on a global scale.

NBCBC – A Legacy of Excellence

Niels Brock Copenhagen Business College is a self-governing educational institution under the state of Denmark located in the capital Copenhagen.

NBCBC has grown into a modern educational leader with a clear mission: to educate skilled and principled business professionals, benefitting both individuals and society.

Today, NBCBC has 4 specialist departments in Copenhagen:

  • Vocational education and training programmes
    • Start-up academy
  • High school programmes
    • International High School end Elite High School
    • Innovation High School
    • UX and Marketing
    • Economics and society
    • 4 specialised High School programmes
  • Higher education programmes
    • Academic programmes for international students
  • Business courses including an MBA

A Diverse and Dynamic Learning Community

With approximately 7.500 full-time and part-time students counting all faculties, along with 500 dedicated staff members, NBCBC is home to a diverse learning community.

While most employees are Danish, a significant number of international faculty members bring a global perspective, particularly in our higher education programmes.

The Trusted Choice of Businesses

As the preferred educational partner of the business sector, NBCBC listens closely to the evolving needs of businesses and society.

All our programmes are designed to prepare students for the challenges of a globalised economy, while upholding the core values of integrity, professionalism, and innovation.

With our rich history and a forward-looking approach, we our legacy while adapting to meet the demands of the modern world. Carrying the name Niels Brock comes with great responsibility – a responsibility you as a student will embrace with pride and purpose.