The Digital Marketing Institute (DMI), headquartered in Dublin, has announced expansion into 18 new markets including Australia, Azerbaijan, Denmark, Ecuador, Germany and Sri Lanka.

It has signed 18 new education partnerships which will result in an additional 8,500 people qualifying with DMI certification over the next three years in these markets, DMI founder Ian Dodson said.

To cater for increasing student numbers globally, the company has also signed a new agreement with computer-based testing provider Pearson VUE.

Computer-based testing allows candidates the convenience of sitting an exam anywhere, at any time. They can book the test on demand at any of more than 5,000 test centres in 180 countries around the world.

The Digital Marketing Institute said its certification exams will now be available through Pearson VUE’s 5,200 test centres in 180 countries. In addition to its professional diploma in digital marketing, other exams available through Pearson VUE include the company’s specialist diplomas across search, mobile, social media, and strategy.

Mr Dodson said the DMI’s education partnerships with universities, training companies and digital agencies now span 50 countries, up from 32 in May.

“This year we’ve reached a series of significant milestones leading us to record our best year yet in terms of partner numbers, students and revenue. While the domestic market still presents some great opportunities for us, international business has been a key driver to growth.”

The Irish company recently signed digital education deals with the University of London and the Greenwich School of Management estimated to be worth €1.5 million. The company employs approximately 50 people in Ireland.