Esports Degrees: A New Frontier in Higher Education
In recent years, the world of competitive gaming has evolved from a niche market to a full-fledged spectator sport, with professional tournaments and leagues popping up everywhere. As the industry’s popularity grows, so too does the demand for academic programs that focus on the business, strategy, and culture of esports. Enter esports degrees – a relatively new genre of higher education that promises to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the competitive esports landscape.
How many colleges offer esports degrees?
According to the National Association of Collegiate Esports (NACE), there are now over 170 accredited colleges and universities offering varsity esports programs to more than 5,000 students. While this may not seem like a vast number, it’s certainly impressive growth since NACE first established its official collegiate esports directory in 2017.
Breaking it Down: Esports Programs Across the US
To further understand the scope of colleges offering esports degrees, here’s a breakdown by category:
- Division 1 schools: 52 colleges and universities with accredited esports programs, including programs at institutions like the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), University of Texas at Dallas, and New York Institute of Technology (NYIT).
- Division 2 schools: 63 colleges and universities, featuring programs at schools such as Grand Valley State University, Ohio University, and Western Illinois University.