Manchester has two universities offering a wide range of course options and choice. The University of Manchester is the largest higher education institution in the country with over 35,000 students, 24 academic schools and a world renowned business school. Manchester Metropolitan University is one of the most extensive education centres in Europe with a combination of traditional and contemporary courses and a Sports and Exercise Science Department which offers a wide range of courses in sports science, coaching, sports development and leisure.

The British Swimming ITC Stockport, through its partnership with the Stockport Sports Trust, has forged partnerships with both universities and with the Stockport College Academy of Sport.

Both Manchester and Manchester Met universities are committed to helping ITC athletes achieve great things in the pool as well as the classroom. Athletes can also apply for financial support through a sports scholarship to either university.

Both University main campuses are located within six miles of Grand Central, with excellent communication links via train, car or bus.