The UK higher education sector continues to embrace esports, with multiple universities announcing new or expanded degree programmes for the 2025/26 academic year.
New Programmes Announced
**Staffordshire University** - Expanding their established esports programme with a new MSc in Esports Business Management
**University of Chichester** - Launching BA (Hons) Esports Management and Marketing
**Solent University** - Adding esports production modules to their existing media programmes
**Confetti Institute of Creative Technologies** - New esports broadcasting and production diploma
**BIMM University** - Esports event management specialisation within their events degree
Career Opportunities in Esports Education
This expansion creates two distinct career pathways:
Academic Roles - **Esports Lecturers** - Teaching esports-specific modules - **Programme Leaders** - Managing esports degree programmes - **Research Fellows** - Conducting esports industry research
Industry Partnership Roles - **Industry Liaison Officers** - Connecting students with employers - **Placement Coordinators** - Managing work experience programmes - **Guest Lecturers** - Industry professionals sharing expertise
Requirements for Academic Positions
Universities typically seek candidates with:
- Industry Experience - 3-5+ years working in esports
- Academic Qualifications - Master's degree minimum, PhD preferred for senior roles
- Teaching Experience - Prior lecturing or training delivery
- Research Potential - Published work or research interests
- Industry Connections - Network for student placements and guest speakers
Why This Matters
The growth of esports education creates a sustainable talent pipeline for the industry while offering stable career options for experienced professionals. Unlike volatile esports organisation roles, academic positions offer:
- Job security and pension schemes
- Regular working hours
- Professional development opportunities
- The chance to shape the next generation of esports professionals
For those considering a transition from industry to academia, now is an excellent time to explore these opportunities.