The well-known provider of gaming technology and esports solutions, ex corp., has released an extensive study exploring the fields of education and esports professions. Under the heading “Esports Degrees Playing Field: What Prospective Students Want, Esports Sector Needs, and Academia Can(‘t) Provide,” this 16-page report examines the complex relationships that exist between academic programs and the rapidly expanding esports employment market.
To illuminate the discussion, ex corp. commissioned a survey, conducted by OnePoll, targeting 1000 individuals aged 16-19, exhibiting interest in esports across Brazil, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The findings revealed a significant inclination towards pursuing esports-related degrees, with 44% expressing interest. Moreover, 55% of respondents believe such degrees would bolster their employment prospects in the industry, foreseeing opportunities primarily in health and wellness, entertainment and broadcasting, education, and players’ management.
The report enriches its analysis with insights from eminent figures in the esports landscape, including Alban Dechelotte (CEO, G2 Esports), Sam Cooke (Managing Director and Co-Founder, Esports Insider), Oleksii Kucherov (COO, Natus Vincere), and Khalilah El-Amin (Vice President of People & Culture, Team Liquid). Their perspectives offer nuanced reflections on the merits of esports degrees, the evolving industry landscape, and the quintessential attributes sought in prospective candidates.
The paper highlights the changing standards that the business has for prospective professionals, especially in view of the financial difficulties that were observed during the most recent “esports winter”. It highlights how important it is for applicants to have practical experience and specialized knowledge, stressing the importance of skill competency in addition to technical knowledge. The study ends by underlining how the esports employment market is always changing and emphasizing how important it is to have a thorough grasp of its shifting landscape.