What Can You Do With an Esports Business Degree in 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can you do with an esports business degree?

An esports business degree from nationally accredited online colleges can open up a wide range of career opportunities that blend your passion for gaming with a solid foundation in business principles. This type of degree prepares you for a variety of roles in the growing global gaming industry, from team management to event production.

• Broadcast Producer: Oversees the production of live esports broadcasts, ensuring a smooth and engaging viewing experience for the audience.
• Business Development Manager: Seeks out new opportunities for growth and revenue for an esports organization or company.
• Content Creator: Produces a variety of media, such as highlight videos, streams, and podcasts, to attract and retain a fan base.
• Data Analyst: Uses data to understand player performance, audience engagement, and market trends to inform business decisions.
• Esports Coach: Works with players to analyze gameplay, develop strategies, and improve overall performance, similar to a coach in traditional sports.
• Event Coordinator: Plans and executes live esports events, from small local tournaments to large-scale international competitions.
• Game Administrator/Referee: Ensures fair play and enforces rules during tournaments and competitive matches.
• Marketing Specialist: Develops and implements marketing campaigns to promote teams, leagues, and products within the esports ecosystem.
• Public Relations Specialist: Manages an organization's public image and communications with the media and the public.
• Social Media Manager: Manages and creates content for a team or organization’s social media channels to engage fans and build community.
• Sponsorship Manager: Works to secure and manage partnerships and sponsorship deals, which are a primary source of revenue in the industry.
• Team Manager: Handles the day-to-day operations for an esports team, including travel, practice schedules, and logistics for tournaments.

Graduates with this degree can find roles across many sectors of the industry, including with teams, leagues, game developers, and event organizers. These positions require a blend of business acumen and a deep understanding of gaming culture.

What is the esports business and is it for me?

The esports business is a dynamic and fast-growing industry centered around competitive video gaming. It encompasses everything from professional teams and leagues to live event production, marketing, and media.

• Content Creation: A huge component of the industry, including streamers, YouTubers, and casters who create engaging content for fans.
• Esports Teams: The central pillars of the industry, consisting of professional players, coaches, managers, and support staff who compete for prize money and sponsorships.
• Event Organizers: Companies that specialize in producing the massive live events that draw millions of viewers both in-person and online.
• Leagues and Publishers: Organizations like Riot Games or the Overwatch League that own and operate the competitive circuits for specific games.
• Media and Broadcasting: Dedicated outlets and broadcasters that cover esports news and events, from major networks to online streaming platforms.
• Sponsorships and Advertising: The primary revenue source for the industry, as major non-endemic brands look to connect with the young, engaged esports audience.

The esports industry is for you if you are passionate about video games and have a strong interest in business, marketing, and technology. It requires a lot of hard work and dedication, but it can be a very rewarding career path for those who are driven and adaptable.

Esports marketing has picked up serious speed, with sponsorships growing, big-name brands getting involved, and fans turning up in huge numbers. The revenue growth has shown a consistent and rapid increase, as shown in the graph below, starting at $339.3 million in 2017 and growing to $401.3 million in 2018. This trend continued, reaching $479.6 million in 2019, $574.3 million in 2020, and $681.5 million in 2021. The market's momentum carried into the following years, with revenue climbing to $791.9 million in 2022 and $894.6 million in 2023, culminating in a projected $982.8 million in 2024.

According to esports marketing statistics, revenue is expected to surpass $1 billion in 2025, reflecting a market that knows how to engage, entertain, and deliver real value. This sustained growth confirms that sponsorships and advertising have become a major driver of the esports market.

What is the financial investment for an esports career?

The financial investment for an esports career can vary greatly depending on the path you choose, from becoming a professional player to working on the business side. For business professionals, the primary investment is often a formal education.

• Education: A four-year bachelor's degree in esports business or a related field can range from around $$40,000 to over $$200,000, depending on the institution. Check if the institution is among the list of accredited online degree programs.
• Gaming PC and Peripherals: A professional-grade gaming setup can cost between $$1,500 and $$5,000, and is a vital tool for staying current with games and understanding the player experience.
• Internships (Potentially Unpaid): While some internships are paid, many entry-level opportunities are not, which requires a financial commitment to support yourself during this experience.
• Software and Tools: Depending on your role, you may need to invest in software for graphic design, video editing, or data analysis.
• Travel and Networking: Attending conferences, conventions, and live events is crucial for making connections and building your professional network.

While the costs can be significant, the investment in education and networking can provide a solid foundation for a lucrative and stable career. The financial return on investment can be very high for those who successfully navigate the industry.

And based on current data, revenue in the U.S. esports market is projected to reach $$1.2 billion in 2025. This figure is expected to grow annually, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.58% from 2025 to 2029, leading to a projected market volume of $$1.6 billion by 2029. The largest segment contributing to this revenue is esports betting, which is projected to have a market volume of $$857.6 million in 2025. These trends, shown in the graphic below, highlight a healthy and growing market driven largely by betting revenue, with a steady expansion expected over the next several years.

How do I gain experience in the esports industry?

Gaining experience in the esports industry is essential for building a professional career and can be done in several hands-on ways, even before you graduate. The key is to be proactive and create opportunities for yourself.

• Join a Collegiate Esports Team or Club: Even if you aren't a player, you can often get involved with the management, marketing, or broadcasting side of the team.
• Network on Social Media: Connect with professionals on LinkedIn and Twitter, and engage in conversations about industry trends and news.
• Pursue Internships: Look for internships with esports teams, game developers, or event organizers to get hands-on experience and network with industry professionals.
• Start Your Own Project: Create your own content on Twitch or YouTube, or organize a small tournament for your friends or a local community.
• Take Relevant Courses: Take classes in marketing, finance, or sports management to build a strong theoretical foundation. For those interested in high-level leadership positions, pursuing a PhD in organizational leadership jobs can open doors to executive roles in esports organizations and other industries, allowing graduates to combine strategic insight with practical experience.
• Volunteer for Local Events: Offer to help with a local gaming tournament or a college esports event to get a feel for event management and production.
• Write about Esports: Start a blog or contribute to a gaming news site to demonstrate your knowledge and communication skills.

By being resourceful and actively seeking out opportunities, you can build a strong portfolio and a valuable network. These experiences will demonstrate your passion and commitment to a future employer.

What skills and qualities do I need for an esports career?

A successful career in esports requires a unique combination of soft skills, technical expertise, and a genuine passion for the industry. You need to be adaptable and ready to take on new challenges in a fast-paced environment.

• Adaptability: The industry is constantly changing, so you need to be able to quickly adapt to new games, technologies, and market trends.
• Communication: The ability to clearly and effectively communicate with players, colleagues, sponsors, and fans is crucial for success in all roles.
• Networking: Building and maintaining relationships with people across the industry is vital for finding new opportunities and partnerships.
• Passion for Gaming: A deep and genuine understanding of gaming culture and communities is key to connecting with the audience and building credibility.
• Problem-Solving: The ability to quickly and effectively solve unexpected problems, whether technical or logistical, is a valuable asset.
• Resilience: The esports world can be highly competitive and demanding, and you need to be able to handle pressure and setbacks.
• Strategic Thinking: You must be able to think critically and strategically to make sound business decisions, from marketing campaigns to financial planning. For professionals looking to move into executive-level positions within esports organizations, pursuing advanced education like a DBA can expand opportunities and prepare them for careers with a DBA that emphasize leadership, strategy, and organizational management.
• Technical Proficiency: Depending on the role, you may need skills in video editing, graphic design, live broadcasting software, or data analytics.
• Time Management: Juggling multiple projects, deadlines, and events requires strong organizational and time management skills.

These skills, combined with a strong work ethic, are what will set you apart from others and help you build a lasting and impactful career. A well-rounded skill set is more important than a single expertise, as roles often require a mix of responsibilities.

How does an esports business curriculum prepare me for my career?

An esports business curriculum is designed to give you a strong foundation in both traditional business practices and the unique aspects of the gaming industry. While it may not be the easiest college degree, it provides a structured path to a career by combining theory with practical application.

• Broadcasting and Production: You'll learn the technical and creative skills needed to produce live broadcasts, from managing cameras to working with casters.
• Esports Event Management: This course teaches you how to plan, organize, and execute tournaments and live events, including logistics, venue selection, and vendor management.
• Esports Marketing and Sponsorships: This course focuses on how to develop effective marketing strategies and negotiate profitable sponsorship deals.
• Financial Management for Esports: You'll learn how to manage budgets, track revenue, and handle accounting for teams and organizations.
• Gaming Law and Contracts: This course covers the legal aspects of the industry, including player contracts, intellectual property, and media rights.
• Strategic Communications: This course teaches you how to manage public relations, social media, and internal communications for an organization.
• The Business of Esports: This is a foundational course that explores the economics, revenue streams, and organizational structures of the esports industry.

These courses give you the specialized knowledge you need to hit the ground running in a professional role. They provide a competitive edge by proving you have the academic background to succeed in a demanding field.

What specializations are available in the esports business?

The esports business is a broad field with many different areas of specialization, allowing you to focus on the part of the industry that most interests you. Each specialization requires a unique skill set and offers a distinct career path.

• Content Creation and Media: This specialization focuses on producing high-quality content, from live streams and videos to written articles and social media posts.
• Esports Coaching and Training: This specialization is for those who want to work directly with players to improve their performance and team dynamics.
• Esports Communications and Public Relations: This is for professionals who want to manage a brand's image, handle media inquiries, and build a positive public profile.
• Event and Tournament Organization: This is for those who want to be involved in the live action, from planning logistics to managing venues and ensuring the event runs smoothly.
• Game Development and Publishing: This area focuses on the business decisions behind creating and releasing games for competitive play.
• Marketing and Sponsorships: This area is all about connecting brands with the esports audience and generating revenue through advertising and partnerships.
• Team and Player Management: This specialization focuses on the business side of professional teams, including player relations, contract negotiations, and day-to-day operations. For those interested in broader entertainment industries, these skills and experiences can also translate to entertainment business jobs, where managing talent, events, and media is equally critical.

These specializations allow you to carve out a niche for yourself and become an expert in a specific aspect of the industry. The best path for you will depend on your unique skills and interests.

Based on 2025 data, the esports market is experiencing rapid growth with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17.48% to 23.1%. This expansion is fueled by a global fanbase expected to reach 640.8 million in 2025, nearly double the number since 2020.

As shown in the graphic below, the popularity of major events is a key indicator of this growth, as the LoL Worlds 2024 set a record with a peak viewership of 6.86 million. Financially, sponsorship and media rights are dominant revenue streams, accounting for 65% of total revenue with $837.3 million coming from sponsorships. Geographically, the Asia-Pacific region is a major market leader, accounting for 57% of viewership and generating over $360 million in revenue.

The U.S. market saw 3,399 professional players and $870 million in revenue in 2023. Competition remains a major draw for investment, with the Dota 2 prize pool in 2024 reaching $23.86 million, the second-largest in the game's history, exceeded only by its 2021 prize pool of more than $40 million. These figures collectively show a booming market driven by a dedicated global audience and significant financial investment.

How do I choose the right career path in the esports business?

Choosing a career path in esports requires self-reflection and a thorough understanding of the industry's various roles. It's about finding the intersection of your personal passions, skills, and the needs of the market.

• Assess Your Skills: Take an honest look at your strengths and weaknesses. Are you a natural leader, a creative problem-solver, or a highly organized planner?
• Consider Your Long-Term Goals: Think about where you want to be in five or ten years. Do you want to work for a large company or start your own business?
• Follow Your Passion: Identify what aspects of esports you love most. Is it the live events, the marketing, or the team dynamics?
• Gain Hands-On Experience: Volunteer or get an internship to get a real feel for what a job is like before you commit to a specific path.
• Informational Interviews: Reach out to people working in the industry on LinkedIn and ask if they would be willing to share their experiences and offer advice.
• Research Job Roles: Look up the job descriptions for various esports positions to understand the day-to-day responsibilities and required qualifications. While this advice is tailored for esports, the same approach can be applied to other fields. For example, exploring what can you do with an educational policy degree involves evaluating the roles that align with your skills and interests—such as policy analysis, school administration, or program evaluation—before committing to a particular path.

By following these steps, you can make a more informed decision and increase your chances of finding a fulfilling and successful career. There are many different ways to get involved, so don't be afraid to try a few different paths before settling on the right one.

What are the top career paths for esports business professionals?

Esports business professionals have a variety of top career paths available to them, with roles that are vital to the industry's continued growth and success. These positions are often in high demand and offer competitive salaries.

• Broadcast Talent (Caster/Analyst): These individuals provide live commentary and analysis for events, serving as the public face of a broadcast.
• Community Manager: This role focuses on building and maintaining a positive relationship with a game's or organization's fan base through various online platforms.
• Data Scientist/Analyst: Uses data to track player performance, analyze viewership trends, and provide insights that inform business and strategic decisions.
• Esports Event Producer: These professionals are the masterminds behind large-scale events, overseeing everything from venue logistics to broadcast production.
• Esports Marketing Manager: This role is responsible for developing and executing marketing campaigns to build brand awareness and engage fans.
• PR and Communications Specialist: This professional manages an organization's public image and communications, from writing press releases to handling media relations.
• Social Media Manager: As a social media manager, you'll be responsible for building an organization's online presence, creating content, and interacting with the fan community.
• Sponsorship Sales Executive: This role focuses on generating revenue by selling sponsorship packages to brands and negotiating mutually beneficial deals.
• Team General Manager: This person is responsible for all non-player aspects of a professional team, including business operations, contracts, and player welfare.

These career paths are a great way to combine a love of gaming with a professional business career. They are critical to the industry's growth and require a unique blend of skills and passion. A common decision made would be whether sports management vs sports administration would better fit your goals.

How much can I earn in the esports business?

The salary range for professionals in the esports business can vary widely depending on the specific role, experience level, and the company's size and location. While some roles have a wide range, others have more predictable earnings.

• Content Creator: Earnings for streamers and content creators are highly variable and can range from very little to over $$1 million per month for top creators.
• Esports Manager: The average salary for an esports manager is around $$97,500 per year.
• Esports Player: While top players can earn millions, a more common salary for an established professional player is between $$48,000 and $$76,000 annually.
• Event Organizer: These professionals can expect to earn between $$40,000 and $$100,000 annually.
• IT Specialist: Those who provide technical support for events and teams can earn an average of $$50,000 to $$90,000 annually.
• PR and Communications Specialist: Salaries for this role typically range from $$50,000 to $$80,000, and can go higher with experience.
• Team Manager: Annual salaries typically range from $$30,000 to $$70,000, with higher pay at top-tier organizations.

While some roles have lower starting salaries, the potential for growth and higher earnings is significant as you gain experience and move into senior-level positions. The industry's rapid expansion means there is a growing demand for skilled professionals across all roles, and even sports psychologist salary ranges have increased due to this expansion. 

Based on 2025 ZipRecruiter data shown in the graph below, salary levels in esports show a strong correlation with location, with the highest earnings concentrated in California. For instance, while Green River, Wyoming, offers the top listed salary at $77,191, the other nine highest-paying cities are all in California, including San Mateo ($74,231) and San Francisco ($74,101).

The data also reveals clear differences by role. Esports analysts earn the most at $73,261, followed by esports team professionals at $72,110. Salaries are slightly lower for esports management roles, with general management at $64,404 and esports managers at $62,661. The lowest listed salary is $45,607 for professionals in esports gaming.

Overall, both location and role strongly influence earnings in esports, with California standing out as a leading hub offering some of the most lucrative opportunities in the industry.

Is the esports market right for me?

The esports job market is experiencing rapid growth, making it a promising and exciting field for those with the right skills and passion. The market's continued expansion is creating a wealth of opportunities across a wide range of roles.

• Diverse Opportunities: The market is not just for players; there is a high demand for business professionals in marketing, event management, and broadcasting. Online sports administration programs are booming at the moment.
• Geographic Expansion: While Asia is a major hub, the market is expanding globally, creating opportunities in North America, Europe, and other regions.
• Market Growth: The global esports market is projected to continue its strong growth, with market size expected to reach over $$2 billion by 2032.
• New Revenue Streams: The industry is constantly innovating with new ways to generate revenue, from ticket sales and merchandise to in-game purchases.
• Rising Viewership: The increasing number of people who watch esports events, both live and on-demand, is driving revenue through advertising and sponsorships.

The esports market is a dynamic and evolving space that offers significant opportunities for those who are passionate and adaptable. It's a field for people who are willing to grow with the industry and embrace its unique challenges.

What are some current and future trends in the esports industry?

The esports industry is a constantly evolving landscape, with new trends and innovations shaping its future. These trends are driven by technological advancements and shifts in consumer behavior.

• Artificial Intelligence: AI is being used to create more realistic games, improve player training, and enhance the viewing experience with data-driven insights and highlights.
• Augmented and Virtual Reality: AR and VR technologies are being integrated into esports to provide more immersive experiences for both players and viewers.
• Cloud Gaming: Services that allow users to stream games without needing powerful hardware are making gaming more accessible and could impact how competitive games are played.
• Collegiate and Scholastic Esports: The growth of esports at the high school and college level is creating new talent pipelines and career opportunities in coaching and program administration.
• Cross-Platform Play: The ability for players on different platforms (PC, console, mobile) to compete against each other is breaking down barriers and expanding the player base.
• Emphasis on Player Wellness: There is a growing focus on the physical and mental health of players, with teams and leagues providing more resources for their well-being.
• Increasing Non-Endemic Sponsorships: More and more major brands from outside the gaming world are entering the market as sponsors, which is a sign of the industry's mainstream acceptance.
• Integration of 5G Technology: The rollout of 5G networks is reducing latency and improving connectivity, which will lead to a more seamless competitive gaming experience.
• Mobile Esports: The rise of powerful smartphones has led to a boom in mobile gaming and competitive mobile esports, making the industry more accessible to a global audience.

Based on data from Yahoo Finance shown in the graphic below, the global esports market was valued at $1.97 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $5.18 billion by 2029. This represents a strong upward trend, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17.4% for the period of 2023 to 2029. The industry's expansion is occurring as more people gain internet access, with 66.2% of the global population using the internet as of January 2024. These figures demonstrate a dynamic and rapidly expanding market that continues to grow with global digital adoption.

These trends highlight a future where esports is even more integrated into mainstream entertainment, driven by technology and a commitment to a growing global community. The industry is on a path of continued innovation and expansion, offering a vast array of possibilities.

Here's What Graduates Say About Their Esports Business Degrees

Other Things You Should Know About Esports Business Degrees

Is an esports business degree worth the money?

An esports business degree can be a valuable investment for those passionate about building a professional career in the gaming industry. It provides specialized knowledge of the unique business models, marketing strategies, and legal frameworks that govern competitive gaming, which can give you a significant advantage over candidates with a more traditional business or marketing background. The degree also offers hands-on experience through projects and internships, helping you build a professional portfolio and network before you even graduate.

The value of the degree is also tied to the rapid growth of the esports market, which is creating a high demand for skilled professionals. With projected global market growth and increasing investment from major brands, the industry offers lucrative and long-term career opportunities. Pursuing this education can be a great way to enter a dynamic field and turn a hobby into a stable, well-paying profession.

What is the difference between an esports degree and a sports management degree?

While both degrees focus on the business and management of a competitive field, an esports degree provides a specialized and highly focused curriculum tailored specifically to the gaming industry. An esports program would include coursework on topics like video game streaming platforms, competitive game design, and digital content creation. A sports management degree, on the other hand, is a broader program that focuses on traditional sports like football and basketball.

A sports management degree would cover areas such as facility management for stadiums, ticket sales, and broadcast deals for traditional television networks. An esports degree, by contrast, prepares you for the unique challenges of a digital-first industry, from managing online communities and streaming contracts to understanding the economics of in-game purchases. While there is some overlap, the specialized nature of an esports degree gives you a competitive edge and a deeper understanding of this unique market.

What are the biggest challenges of working in the esports industry?

One of the biggest challenges in the esports industry is its rapid pace and constant evolution. The market is driven by new games, emerging technologies, and changing consumer habits, requiring professionals to be highly adaptable and always learning. The industry is also highly competitive, as many people are passionate about gaming and seek to enter the field. This means that job applicants must stand out with a strong portfolio, a wide professional network, and specialized skills.

Another significant challenge is the ongoing need for professionalization and standardization. While the industry has grown, it is still relatively young and lacks some of the established structures of traditional sports. This can lead to a lack of clear career paths, inconsistent salaries across organizations, and complex legal issues related to player contracts, intellectual property, and sponsorships. Professionals often need to be resourceful and take on a variety of roles within a single company.