STEP International Trust Management Suite
Are you ready to elevate your career in trust management and enhance your professional expertise?
The STEP Diploma is the globally recognised qualification for those working in the trusts and estates sector, with a recommended route available for those who want to expand their advising ability for global clients.
This qualification is your gateway to enhanced career prospects and the prestigious TEP (Trust and Estate Practitioner) status upon completion.
What is the STEP Diploma?
The STEP Diploma is the gold-standard qualification for professionals in the trusts and estates industry. Designed and delivered by practitioners, for practitioners, it provides you with an in-depth understanding of the critical aspects of international trust management. All practitioners working in the field of trusts and/or estates will benefit from this qualification – from accountants, to lawyers, bankers, trust professionals, wealth managers, and others. The diploma is recognised by employers, regulators, and clients worldwide, making it the gold-standard qualification for professionals in the field.
The qualification consists of four Advanced Certificates, each designed to provide specialised knowledge in key areas of trust management. Together, these courses offer a comprehensive route to building your expertise in the international trusts sector, whether you are looking to gain a general understanding or refine specific areas of your practice.
Recommended Route for International Trust Management Professionals
While the STEP Diploma offers flexibility in course selection, the recommended route for professionals looking to enhance their expertise in international trust management includes the following four Advanced Certificates:
STEP Advanced Certificate in Company Law and Practice
Learn about the role of companies as offshore asset-holding vehicles.
Enrolment Deadline: 16 June 2025
STEP Advanced Certificate in Trusts: Law and Practice (International)
Dive deep into trust law and the role, powers, and duties of trustees in an international context.
Enrolment Deadline: 19 May 2025
STEP Advanced Certificate in Trustees' Duties: Investment and Management of the Trust Fund
Understand the critical duties of trustees when managing trust funds and investments.
Enrolment Deadline: 02 June 2025
STEP Advanced Certificate in Principles of International Taxation, AML, and Compliance
Develop a deep understanding of global regulatory frameworks governing private wealth management.
Enrolment Deadline: 30 June 2025
Who should take the STEP Diploma?
The STEP Diploma is designed for professionals working in the trusts and estates industry. Whether you are an accountant, lawyer, banker, trust officer, wealth manager, or compliance officer, this qualification will help you develop the skills and knowledge needed to excel in international trust management.
The diploma is ideal for professionals looking to:
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Administer and maintain trusts and company accounts.
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Provide tax planning advice to high-net-worth individuals.
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Review and prepare trust and company financial statements.
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Offer estate planning solutions, including wealth structuring and succession planning.
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Ensure compliance with global regulations such as FATCA and CRS.
The STEP Diploma is the benchmark qualification for those working in the field of trusts and/or estates. It is designed and delivered by practitioners, for practitioners, and is recognised and respected by employers, regulators, and clients across the world. Completing this diploma will empower you to take your career to new heights.
Why choose the STEP Diploma?
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Globally Recognised: The STEP Diploma is a highly respected qualification, acknowledged by employers, regulators, and clients worldwide.
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Tailored Flexibility: With the ability to choose from various Advanced Certificates, you can customise your learning to focus on the areas most relevant to your career goals.
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Designed for Practitioners, by Practitioners: The course content is created by industry experts, providing practical insights into the day-to-day challenges of trust management.
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Enhanced Career Prospects: Earning the STEP Diploma will position you as a trusted adviser in the industry and enhance your career advancement opportunities.
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Networking Opportunities: Engage with a global community of students and professionals, sharing experiences and building valuable relationships.
How long will it take?
The typical duration for completing the four Advanced Certificates is around two years. With flexible online study options, you can design your own study journey, balancing work and life commitments. Most students spend four to six hours per week on study, with each certificate requiring approximately four months of preparation before exams. It’s also possible to study two certificates simultaneously if you have the time and commitment.
Ready to start?
The STEP Diploma will provide you with the expertise, recognition, and global network you need to advance your career in international trust management. To learn more about each Advanced Certificate, including course fees, timetables, and how to register, visit the individual course pages:
Each course is accredited by Alliance Manchester Business School (AMBS), ensuring the highest quality of education and professional recognition.
Entry level qualifications
STEP Certificate in International Trust Management – A Solid Foundation
For those starting out in the field or looking to gain foundational knowledge, the STEP Certificate in International Trust Management is the perfect introduction. This entry-level qualification offers an essential grounding in trust management, covering the fundamentals of trusts and companies in both local and international contexts. Successful completion of the Certificate will earn you 30 Entry Level credits towards STEP membership, helping you build a strong foundation in trust and estate practice.
Course highlights
- Fundamentals of Trusts: Learn the key principles of trust law, including the creation and administration of trusts.
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Offshore Trusts: Gain insight into the uses and benefits of offshore trusts.
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Company Law Basics: Understand the evolution and roles of offshore asset-holding companies.
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Flexible Online Study: This part-time course includes guided online study, self-assessment, and virtual workshops.
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Assessment: 5-hour open-book examination.
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Accreditation: Awarded in association with Alliance Manchester Business School, University of Manchester.
Course Fees: £1730 + local taxes
Next Intake: View the December 2024 or March 2025 course timetable.
This qualification is ideal for professionals such as trust officers, lawyers, wealth managers, compliance officers, and accountants, providing them with a solid foundation to advance in the trusts and estates industry.
Meet the tutors
Our expert tutors bring decades of real-world experience to the courses they deliver. Their deep industry knowledge and practical insights will support your learning and help you apply theory to practice.
Student testimonials
The STEP Diploma gave me the confidence to advise clients on complex trust structures. The flexibility of the course was perfect, allowing me to balance my work commitments while gaining a deeper understanding of trust management.
Wealth Manager
The course content was highly practical and immediately applicable to my work. The support from tutors and the network of fellow students were invaluable.
Trust Officer
Watch our video
Find out more about how the STEP Diploma can help you advance your career in trust management. Hear from students and tutors about their experiences with the qualification and the impact it’s had on their professional lives.
Contact us
If you have any questions or need further information, our team is here to help. Contact us today to discuss your study options.
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Live Chat: Available on our website
The STEP Diploma is your pathway to becoming a recognised expert in international trust management. Enrol today and take your career to the next level.