University of Suffolk in Ipswich unveils Esports degree

Esports, also known as electronic sports, are video game-based competitions and have quickly become a global discipline in recent years, supported by some of the world’s biggest sports brands.

Among the most popular esports games include Dota 2, League of Legends, Call of Duty and Overwatch.

Development is underway for the University of Suffolk's first esports programme - which will accept its first students in 2025 - covering a diverse range of topics such as game design, esports event management, live streaming, esports marketing and analysis of competitive gameplay.

The University of Suffolk, on Ipswich Waterfront (Image: Jason Noble LDRS)

The Ipswich Waterfront-based university said the curriculum is being developed in collaboration with industry experts to ensure students get "up-to-date knowledge and practical skills that align with the industry’s demands".

The University will make a "significant" investment in a "new state-of-the-art" Esports Lab that will feature the latest gaming machines of an industry standard that will be able to host esports events and tournaments.

The course will also ensure students gain practical experience in the sector through internships, industry partnerships and live esports events, hosted at the university itself.

Professor Stuart Harmer, dean of the school of technology, business and arts at the University of Suffolk, said: "We are thrilled to announce our plans to create one of the first esports undergraduate courses in the East of England.

"It recognises the tremendous growth and potential of the esports industry.

"We have witnessed a significant growth in students studying esports at colleges and schools in the region and by providing this course we’re offering these students a much-needed pathway that allows them an important progression into Higher Education in this industry."