Home to the world-class Cranfield University and The Open University, and now the recently founded University Centre Milton Keynes, the city is superbly placed to offer your business a competitive advantage. The universities offer excellent support and resources and are engaged in high level research in a variety of disciplines. The universities work closely with local companies, providing students with relevant learning and professional development to give businesses the edge. In some instances they will also provide specifically tailored courses for individual companies.

University Centre Milton Keynes

In 2008 the new University Centre Milton Keynes (UCMK) was founded in the heart of the city supported by Milton Keynes Partnership, Milton Keynes College, Milton Keynes Council, SEEDA and GOSE.

Alongside the University Centre, Milton Keynes Partnership is continuing to work with SEEDA, Milton Keynes Council and The Economy and Learning Partnership to develop the strategic direction of higher education in the city. Progress is also being made to establish a Higher Education Strategic Development Board bringing these partners together to provide local and regional support to higher education in Milton Keynes.

The Open University

The Open University (OU), including the OU Business School, works with thousands of organisations to promote professional and management skills that deliver business results. Most courses are studied by those in full-time employment and are flexible enough for even the most time-challenged employees.

Employee development - from respected MBA programmes to courses in ICT, the OU’s portfolio covers a huge range of subjects geared towards improving organisational performance.  More…  

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) – the OU caters for the continuing development needs of executives and professionals, offering flexible courses aligned with employers needs.  More…

Cranfield University

Specialising in scientific, technical and management disciplines, Cranfield University combines academic rigour with a commercial focus for industry. The university works in partnership with businesses to address real issues, using a mix of scientific and management expertise to find solutions. Cranfield is also the only UK university to have its own airfield!

Services for business partners – in addition to its international reputation for General Management Development, Leadership and Strategy programmes, Cranfield also offers research and consultancy, sponsorship of student projects and tailored, short courses in most disciplines.  More…

Knowledge Transfer Partnerships  (KTPs) – this part-government funded initiative involves high quality graduates working within companies on projects central to their strategic growth and is available through the university.  More… 

Short courses/CPD -  Cranfield has been at the forefront of continuing education for CPD for over 40 years and offers bespoke courses in the latest technologies and management strategies.  More…