Colleges across the country are recognizing its potential, not only as a competitive activity but as an opportunity to attract students and provide them with the experience and tools to embark on careers in a fast-growing field. Emerging programs are integrating game design, computer science, digital-media studies, event planning, and other disciplines, providing students with opportunities to sharpen their technical skills and develop strategic thinking and teamwork.
“Kids are coming out of high school who are growing up” with video games and wishing they could get into the industry, says Justin Brooks, the coordinator of the esports program at the State University of New York College of Technology at Canton. “All of a sudden, on a silver platter, comes schools who are saying, Hey, we have an outlet into the esports industry, whether it be playing or production or team management.”
But like any innovative program in a nascent field, there is risk — at the end of the day, will those graduates find jobs? Esports proponents are optimistic, citing the soaring interest and investment in the industry. “There are millions of dollars going into” esports right now, says Brooks. “It is insanely popular. I mean, there’s opportunities everywhere. It’s just about working hard to get there.”
SUNY Canton, as it’s commonly known, originally was a two-year college and has expanded its academic programs to offer four-year degrees while maintaining a focus on career outcomes for its students. It began competing in esports in 2017 and launched an esports-management program in the fall of 2020. The program has produced 13 graduates so far, with 15 more expected to graduate this year. This short film tells the story of Kal-El Key, a 2024 graduate of Canton’s program. Now, degree in hand, he is eager to join the work force. “I’m excited,” Key says. “I’m hoping it’s the next leg of my journey that’s going to get me to my success.”
The Different Voices of Student Success
The Chronicle’s resource center shares insights about improving student outcomes, social mobility, and workers’ skills in the higher-ed space.
