Esports

Esports, or competitive video gaming, has rapidly grown into a multi-billion-pound global industry, and higher education institutions are increasingly recognising its academic and professional potential.

Universities and colleges across the UK and internationally have begun offering specialised courses and degree programmes in esports, covering areas such as game design, event management, marketing, and performance analysis. These programmes aim to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in various roles within the esports ecosystem, from professional gameplay and team management to broadcasting and business development.

One of the key advantages of studying esports in higher education is the multidisciplinary nature of the field. Esports draws from a wide range of academic disciplines, including business, media, psychology, technology, and health sciences. For example, students may study the psychological factors that affect player performance, the logistics of organising large-scale tournaments, or the marketing strategies that build global gaming brands.

This broad scope not only offers students diverse career options but also provides a comprehensive understanding of how the industry operates.

Take a look at the courses we offer below

More information about esports

Higher education (HE) also plays a significant role in developing professionalism and sustainability within the esports sector.

Through structured learning environments, students gain insights into ethics, inclusivity, mental health, and responsible digital engagement – critical topics in an industry that is still maturing. Universities can also support the growth of esports by offering access to facilities such as dedicated arenas, broadcasting studios, and performance labs.

These resources help students develop hands-on skills in areas like streaming, coaching, and game analytics, which are increasingly important as the industry becomes more sophisticated and competitive.

Future careers in esports with HE qualifications

Graduates with academic training in esports are well-positioned to take on roles in team management, content creation, data analysis, and even policy development for governing bodies.

The future of careers in esports is bright and rapidly expanding, driven by the global growth of competitive gaming, digital media, and interactive entertainment. No longer limited to just professional players, the esports industry now offers a wide variety of roles that combine technology, creativity, business, and media.

Professional Esports Player: At the forefront of the industry are professional gamers who compete in tournaments for major titles like League of Legends, Valorant, Dota 2, and Call of Duty. While only a small percentage of players reach elite status, those who do can earn substantial income through prize winnings, sponsorships, and streaming.

Esports Team Manager and Coach: Esports coaches work on game tactics, communication skills, and performance analysis, while team managers handle logistics, sponsorship deals, event planning, and player welfare.

Broadcasting, Journalism, and Content Creation: Shoutcasters (esports commentators), hosts, interviewers, and video editors all play essential roles in delivering entertaining and informative coverage of live events. Additionally, esports journalists cover industry news, player stories, and tournament analysis across platforms.

Marketing, Sponsorship, and Event Management: Esports is heavily influenced by sponsorships, branding, and global events. Professionals in this area work on marketing campaigns, partnership development, and organising tournaments, both online and in major arenas. Roles such as esports marketing manager, partnership executive, and event coordinator require knowledge of audience engagement, digital advertising, and brand management.

Game Developer and Esports Analyst: Game developers work on balancing gameplay, designing competitive features, and creating engaging player experiences. Meanwhile, esports analysts focus on data analytics, in-game statistics, and performance optimisation, often helping teams or content creators understand trends and strategies.