The college offers a wide range of vocational and technical study programmes aimed at young people aged 16–19, with some university level courses, Apprenticeship programmes and adult education.

Hopwood Hall College was incorporated in 1992 and officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II on 17 July 1992.

Since its opening, Hopwood Hall College has provided A Level courses for sixth form students from the local area.

A Sports Arena was opened on 25 September 2002 by Ivan Lewis, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Learning and Skills, and Paul Scholes of Manchester United Football Club.

A £7.5m scheme to construct a purpose-built technology centre at the Middleton campus was completed in October 2011 and officially opened on 6 March 2012 by John Hayes, Minister of State for Further Education, Skills and Lifelong Learning.