Fastest Online Esports Business Degree Programs for 2025
Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist
As the global esports industry surges past the billion-dollar mark, the demand for professionals who understand both the gaming world and the business behind it continues to grow. A degree in esports business management is more relevant than ever, equipping students with the skills to navigate marketing, event management, sponsorship, team operations, and digital media -- all within the high-paced world of competitive gaming.
Earning this degree online offers the added advantage of flexibility, allowing students to fast-track their education without putting their careers or personal commitments on hold.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the fastest online esports business degree programs available today. Whether you're looking to break into the industry or level up your current role, this list will help you find the right program to match your goals and timeline.
What are the benefits of obtaining an online esports business degree?
An online esports business degree offers a flexible and practical way to enter one of the fastest-growing industries in the world. One of the key benefits is
- Convenience: You can complete coursework from anywhere, making it easier to balance studies with work, gaming, or personal commitments. Many online programs are designed to be completed faster than traditional degrees, helping students enter the workforce sooner.
- Focus on industry-specific knowledge: Online esports business programs cover essential areas like marketing, event management, sponsorship, digital branding, and team operations, all tailored to the esports environment.
- Access to a global network: Online programs often connect students with peers, instructors, and professionals from around the world, offering valuable insights and potential career opportunities. For aspiring esports managers, marketers, or entrepreneurs, an online esports business degree provides the foundation needed to thrive in this competitive and rapidly evolving field.
What can I expect from an online esports business degree program?
Here’s what you can typically expect when enrolling in an online esports business degree program:
- Comprehensive Business Courses: Topics such as marketing, management, finance, and entrepreneurship with a focus on application within the esports industry.
- Esports-Specific Curriculum: Classes on esports event planning, team operations, sponsorship management, digital branding, and gaming media.
- Flexible Learning Format: Online, self-paced or accelerated options that allow you to study around work, gaming, or personal commitments.
- Real-World Projects & Case Studies: Practical assignments that simulate real challenges in esports organizations, tournaments, and business operations.
- Industry Connections & Networking Opportunities: Access to peers, instructors, and guest speakers with direct experience in the esports field.
- Career-Focused Training: Skill development tailored to roles in team management, event coordination, marketing, and business development within the esports industry.
- Potential Internship or Capstone Projects: Opportunities to gain hands-on experience through partnerships with esports organizations or through project-based learning.
Where can I work with an online esports business degree?
An online esports business degree can open doors to a wide range of career opportunities within the fast-growing esports and gaming industries, as well as in traditional business settings. Graduates are equipped with both general business knowledge and industry-specific skills, making them valuable to various employers.
Here are some of the places you can work with this degree:
- Esports Teams and Organizations: Manage team operations, marketing, sponsorship deals, or player relations for professional esports teams.
- Gaming Companies and Publishers: Work in marketing, business development, or event coordination for companies that create or promote video games.
- Esports Event and Tournament Organizers: Plan, promote, and manage esports tournaments, live events, and digital competitions.
- Marketing and Sponsorship Agencies: Develop campaigns and secure sponsorship deals that connect brands with esports audiences.
- Broadcasting and Streaming Platforms: Work behind the scenes with content production, event coverage, and partnerships for platforms like Twitch, YouTube Gaming, or esports networks.
- Entrepreneurial Ventures: Start your own esports-related business, such as a consulting agency, merchandise brand, or event company.
- Educational Institutions: Help develop esports programs or manage collegiate esports teams at schools and universities.
How much can I make with an online esports business degree?
Earning potential with an online esports business degree can vary based on your role, experience, and the size of the organization you work for. Entry-level positions in esports management, marketing, or event coordination typically offer salaries ranging from $40,000 to $60,000 per year.
With experience, professionals in senior roles such as esports team managers, marketing directors, or business development managers can earn $70,000 to over $100,000 annually.
In specialized areas like sponsorship management or esports event production, salaries can be even higher, especially for those working with major teams, global tournaments, or large gaming companies.
Additionally, some esports professionals earn performance bonuses or revenue shares based on team or event success. While exact salaries depend on location and job title, the growing popularity and profitability of the esports industry mean that earning potential continues to rise.
Table of Contents
- List of the Fastest Online Esports Business Degree Programs for 2025
- How long does it typically take to earn an online esports business degree?
- What is the average cost of an online esports business degree program?
- What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online esports business degree program?
- What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online esports business degree program?
- What courses are typically included in an online esports business degree program?
- How can I choose the best among the fastest online esports business degree program?
- How Can I Verify the Quality of an Online Esports Business Degree Program?
- What potential challenges should be considered when pursuing an online esports business degree?
- What are the differences between a traditional and an online esports business degree program?
- What career paths are available for graduates with an online esports business degree?
- What is the job outlook for graduates of online esports business degree programs?
- Other Things You Should Know About the Fastest Online Esports Business Degree Program
List of the Fastest Online Esports Business Degree Programs for 2025
Our rankings are based on thorough research and data analysis conducted by our team of experts. We utilize several key sources to ensure accuracy and reliability: the IPEDS database, Peterson's database (including their Distance Learning Licensed Data Set), the College Scorecard database, and the National Center for Education Statistics.
Recognizing that paying for an online esports business degree is a significant investment, our ranking methodology ensures that students can make informed decisions based on comprehensive and transparent information. This ranking encompasses programs for all levels – undergraduate to graduate degrees. For more detailed information on our methodology, please visit our methodology section.
1. Walsh University - Bachelor of Business Administration in eSports & Gaming Management
Walsh University offers a fully online and accelerated Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree in esports that provides students with a strong background in business plus enhanced management and marketing skills. Other highlights of the program are its focus on event operation, business fundamentals, and its credit for prior learning.
The program includes select online courses that are taught in collaboration with other colleges across the country. It is designed for students to complete it in 12 to 24 months, depending on transfer credits.
- Location: North Canton, OH
- Program Length: 12-24 months
- Credits Required: 75
- Program Cost: $18,000
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
2. Culver-Stockton College - Bachelor of Science in eSports & Gaming Administration
Culver-Stockton College offers a 100% online BS with a major in esports and gaming administration. The program is personalized, and the college will look into your previous college credits, professional training, military service and other educational experiences so it could design a degree plan that would progress you toward the Esports and Gaming Administration degree that best fits your career goals.
The program is accelerated via frequent 8-week courses.
- Location: Canton, MO
- Program Length: 2-4 years
- Credits Required: 60
- Tuition Per Credit: $395
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
3. Immaculata University – B.S. in Business & Esport Management
Immaculata University offers a BS in Business and Esport Management program with an accelerated option that you can finish in three years. This program, while in hybrid format and not fully online, is among their Degree-in-Three majors, where you could take courses year-round, including summer and winter.
The program boasts an industry-focused curriculum and hands-on learning through required internship in esports management, business, or gaming administration.
- Location: Immaculata, PA
- Program Length: 3 years (for accelerated option)
- Cost Per Year: $28,970
- Accreditation: The Middle States Commission on Higher Education
4. American Public University – Bachelor of Science in Esports with Business Admin concentration
American Public University offers a BS in Esports with Business Administration concentration that is fully online and whose courses vary from 8 to 16 weeks. What makes this program fast is that you can transfer up to 90 credits and finish way ahead of the typical 4 years.
You can learn all about the business of esports, including marketing, revenue generation, sponsorships, event and facility management, player performance and development, and esports media and production.
- Location: Charles Town, WV
- Program Length: 2 to 4 years
- Credits Required: 120
- Cost Per Credit: $350
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission; Commission on Sport Management Accreditation
5. Florida Southern College - Master of Business Administration: Esports Management
Florida Southern College offers a flexible, accelerated MBA with an esports management concentration. The university's MBA program boasts living case studies, executive mentors, and international field experiences. It will train you for a truly global career and allow you to work on projects that will have an impact on real companies and nonprofit organizations.
- Location: Lakeland, FL
- Program Length: 12-24 months
- Credits Required: 33
- Tuition Per Credit Hour: $1,035
- Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
How long does it typically take to earn an online esports business degree?
The time it takes to earn an online esports business degree depends on the type of program and your preferred study pace. Generally, most bachelor’s degree programs take about 3 to 4 years to complete for full-time students. However, many online programs offer accelerated options, allowing motivated students to finish in as little as 18 to 24 months.
If you're pursuing an associate degree, you can typically complete it in 18 months to 2 years, while certificate programs or specialized short courses may take just a few months. For those looking to advance their expertise, including online MBA programs or, more specifically online master’s degree in esports business or management, usually take 1 to 2 years to complete, with accelerated options sometimes available.
The flexibility of online learning also means part-time study is an option at every level, giving students the ability to balance work, gaming, or other commitments while earning their degree.
The image below shows just how huge the global esports industry has grown in recent years. So it makes sense to take advantage of this and earn a degree that gives you an edge in the field of esports and gaming.
What is the average cost of an online esports business degree program?
Here’s an overview of the cost of an online esports business degree program, regardless of level:
- Per-credit tuition generally ranges from $300 to $800, depending on the institution and program structure. Most degree programs require between 30 and 120 credits, resulting in total tuition costs from $10,000 to over $90,000.
- For top-rated programs, the average cost is around $600 to $720 per credit, leading to total expenses of $21,000 to $72,000, depending on whether the program is shorter (like a master's) or longer (like a bachelor's).
- Public online institutions tend to charge about $9,000 to $12,000 annually, while private nonprofit schools often range from $20,000 to $25,000 per year—putting overall costs between $20,000 and $100,000, depending on the degree level and course load.
- Affordable options do exist. Some state universities in the U.S. offer esports or gaming-focused degrees under broader business or sports management programs at $300–$500 per credit, bringing total costs to $10,000 to $60,000, depending on the degree length.
- Mid-range programs, such as those from Shenandoah University, typically fall between $500 and $650 per credit, resulting in total tuition of $19,000 to $78,000, depending on the number of credits required. Students comparing costs might also look at similar programs in other fields—like the shortest online degree in public administration—which can offer career-ready training at lower total tuition, especially in accelerated formats.
If affordability is your priority, expect to spend between $10,000 and $60,000 on total tuition for the most budget-friendly options. More premium, specialized, or research-oriented programs may cost $70,000 or more. When budgeting, always consider per-credit rates, the total number of credits, fees, degree level, and available financial aid or scholarships.
The chart below shows the top esports games in terms of peak viewership. Seeing how big esport games have grown in users and viewers, investing in a career within the industry might prove worth it.
What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online esports business degree program?
Students pursuing an online degree in esports business have access to several financial aid opportunities to help manage the cost of tuition, materials, and program fees. These options are comparable to those offered for traditional on-campus degrees and include:
- Federal Financial Aid: U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens can apply for assistance by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Graduate students may qualify for Direct Unsubsidized Loans or Graduate PLUS Loans, which can be used toward tuition and related educational expenses.
- Scholarships and Grants: Many universities offer merit-based or need-based scholarships, some specifically designed for students in digital media, game development, business, or esports-related programs. Industry organizations, such as the Esports Trade Association or Women in Games International, occasionally provide scholarships or mentorship support.
- Employer Tuition Assistance: Employers, especially in tech, entertainment, marketing, or sports management sectors, may offer tuition reimbursement programs. Students already working in adjacent industries should consult their employer’s HR or training department to explore eligibility.
- Military and Veteran Benefits: Active-duty service members, veterans, and their families may qualify for GI Bill benefits, the Yellow Ribbon Program, or military tuition discounts, particularly at institutions that support military-connected learners.
- Payment Plans and Institutional Aid: Most online universities offer monthly payment plans or institutional scholarships for graduate students. These options can reduce financial strain by allowing tuition to be paid in installments or with partial school-sponsored funding.
Some students even leverage these financial aid options to pursue related advanced degrees, such as an accelerated masters in sports analytics online, which can complement an esports business background by providing deeper insights into performance metrics, fan engagement, and data-driven decision-making.
By researching and combining available aid options, students can significantly lower out-of-pocket expenses and make a degree in esports business more affordable, regardless of whether they are studying full-time or part-time.
What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online esports business degree program?
Admission to an online business management degree with focus on esports—whether at the bachelor’s or master’s level—typically requires applicants to meet a set of academic and sometimes professional criteria. While specific requirements vary by institution and degree level, most programs include the following general prerequisites:
- Educational Background: A high school diploma (for bachelor’s programs) or a regionally accredited bachelor’s degree (for master’s programs) is required. While related fields such as business, marketing, media, or communications are often preferred, many programs accept students from diverse academic backgrounds. Students pursuing the fastest MBA in marketing online programs may also find esports-focused tracks or electives that align with digital brand engagement and audience development.
- Minimum GPA: Most schools require a minimum GPA, typically ranging from 2.5 to 3.0. Some programs may offer conditional admission for applicants with lower GPAs who demonstrate potential through other achievements or experience.
- Relevant Experience (Optional/Preferred): Especially at the graduate level, experience in esports, gaming, digital marketing, event coordination, or business can strengthen an application. Some schools may request a resume or portfolio, though this is often optional for undergraduate applicants.
- Letters of Recommendation: Many programs ask for one to three recommendation letters from academic or professional contacts who can vouch for the applicant’s qualifications, work ethic, and suitability for the program.
- Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose: Applicants are commonly required to submit a written essay explaining their interest in esports, career goals, and reasons for pursuing the degree.
- English Language Proficiency (for international students): Non-native English speakers are generally required to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores to verify their academic-level proficiency in English.
Some programs may also include an interview or online assessment as part of the admissions process. Meeting these general requirements helps ensure that students are ready to succeed in the academic and industry-focused environment of an esports business degree program.
Pursuing a degree in esports business may be a good decision based on how the market has grown in terms of revenue. The chart below shows this revenue growth from 2022 to 2025.
What courses are typically included in an online esports business degree program?
An online esports business degree is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the competitive gaming industry. Coursework typically combines core business education with esports-specific content, offering a blend of academic theory and practical application.
While course titles and structures may vary by institution and degree level, students can generally expect the following types of courses. Similarly, fast-track master’s in taxation management online programs also offer a blend of technical expertise and practical learning tailored to working professionals who want to graduate quickly and advance their careers.
- Esports Management and Strategy: Covers the organization, operations, and strategic planning of esports teams, leagues, and businesses, including leadership roles and industry dynamics.
- Digital Marketing and Brand Development: Teaches how to develop and promote esports brands using digital media, influencer marketing, social platforms, streaming services, and community engagement.
- Event Planning and Production: Focuses on the management of live and virtual esports events, including logistics, sponsorships, broadcasting, safety protocols, and fan experiences.
- Esports Law and Ethics: Examines key legal and ethical considerations such as player contracts, intellectual property rights, labor issues, streaming regulations, and governance in competitive gaming.
- Business Analytics in Esports: Introduces data analysis tools and techniques relevant to esports, focusing on metrics like viewership, engagement, performance data, and revenue tracking.
- Finance and Revenue Models in Esports: Reviews financial aspects of the esports ecosystem, including monetization strategies, budgeting, investment, sponsorship models, prize pools, and operational funding.
- Capstone Project or Thesis: Most programs include a final capstone or research-based project that applies classroom knowledge to a real-world esports business challenge or case study.
In addition, elective courses may be offered in areas such as game design fundamentals, media production, international esports markets, entrepreneurship in gaming, or leadership in digital environments. These courses allow students to tailor their education to their career goals within the evolving esports landscape.
If you are more interested in developing and designed games than being in the business side of it, you can look into gaming schools online.
How can I choose the best among the Fastest online esports business degree programs?
Choosing the right online esports business degree program requires careful consideration of both quality and speed to ensure you get a valuable education without unnecessary delays. Here are key factors to help you make the best choice:
- Accreditation and Reputation: Make sure the program is offered by an accredited college or university with a solid reputation. This ensures your degree is recognized by employers and meets industry standards.
- Program Length and Flexibility: Look for programs that offer accelerated options or year-round enrollment if you want to graduate quickly. Flexible scheduling and self-paced courses can also help you complete your degree faster. The fastest bachelor's degree programs, for instance, can be completed in two years if summer and winter courses are available. The fastest online MBA programs, meanwhile, can be completed in a year if you are able to transfer a significant number of credits.
- Industry Connections and Opportunities: The best programs often partner with esports organizations, offering access to internships, networking events, guest speakers, and real-world projects.
- Graduate Success and Job Placement: Research the program’s track record for graduate employment in the esports or gaming industry. Schools with strong career support and high job placement rates can give you an edge.
- Esports-Focused Curriculum: Esports is not one of the popular business or MBA specializations. So check that the program includes specialized courses in esports management, marketing, event planning, sponsorship, and digital media, in addition to core business subjects.
By focusing on these factors, you can find a program that matches your career goals, offers quality education, and allows you to earn your degree in the fastest and most convenient way possible.
How Can I Verify the Quality of an Online Esports Business Degree Program?
Ensuring that your online esports business degree program meets high academic and industry standards is essential. Look for formal accreditation and independent evaluations as key indicators of quality. Reviews from alumni and established industry professionals can further affirm the program’s credibility. Compared to broader business disciplines, prospective students may also explore cost-efficient
What potential challenges should be considered when pursuing an online esports business degree?
While the flexible and accelerated nature of online programs is appealing, prospective students should assess potential challenges that may affect their academic and career progress. Common issues include limited face-to-face networking opportunities, the need for strong self-motivation, and varying levels of student support from different institutions. Evaluating how each program adapts its curriculum to ever-changing industry trends and technology is crucial for long-term career alignment. In addition, complementing an esports business degree with targeted certifications—such as fast track project management degree programs online—can further enhance project execution and strategic leadership skills required in interdisciplinary team environments.
What are the differences between a traditional and an online esports business degree program?
Both traditional and online esports business degree programs cover the same foundational knowledge and industry-specific skills, but they differ in format, delivery, and learning environment. Here are the key differences:
- Learning Format: Traditional programs involve in-person classes, often with hands-on activities such as live event planning or on-campus tournaments. Online programs are delivered through virtual platforms and may use asynchronous (recorded) or synchronous (live) sessions, giving students more control over their learning schedules.
- Flexibility and Scheduling: Online programs are ideal for students with part-time jobs, competitive esports commitments, or irregular schedules. These programs allow learning at one's own pace and often follow a more relaxed academic calendar. Traditional programs may require full-time attendance and structured class times.
- Location and Accessibility: Online programs remove the need for relocation, allowing students to attend from anywhere with internet access. Traditional programs may require students to live near campus or commute regularly, which can be a challenge for those balancing work or gaming responsibilities.
- Interaction and Networking: Traditional programs often offer more in-person networking opportunities through campus esports clubs, tournaments, and faculty mentorship. Online students typically engage through discussion boards, live video calls, and collaborative group projects. While different, these methods still foster valuable industry connections.
- Learning Style and Independence: Online learners must be proactive, disciplined, and comfortable working independently. Traditional programs offer more structure and face-to-face guidance. Students who enjoy hands-on collaboration and real-time feedback may prefer the traditional setting, while those who value convenience and self-direction might thrive online.
A lot of the accelerated MBA and other degree programs, in general, are made available through online and hybrid format.
In summary, the main differences lie in how the content is delivered and the lifestyle it supports. Both online and traditional esports business degrees can prepare students for careers in team management, marketing, event coordination, and content creation—just through different paths. Some students also explore complementary credentials, such as the shortest cloud engineering online bootcamps, to quickly gain technical skills that can enhance their competitiveness in the digital side of the esports industry, particularly in areas like game server management, streaming infrastructure, and data analytics.
What career paths are available for graduates with an online esports business degree?
Graduates of an online esports business degree program are equipped with specialized skills in marketing, management, event planning, and digital media—all tailored to the fast-growing esports industry. Many students also explore complementary qualifications, such as a fast-track online sports management bachelor's degree, to broaden their expertise and open doors to roles that blend traditional sports administration with the unique demands of competitive gaming.
Here are some of the most common career paths:
- Esports Team Manager: Oversees the daily operations of competitive gaming teams, including scheduling, logistics, recruitment, and sponsor relations. This role requires strong organizational and communication skills.
- Esports Marketing Specialist: Focuses on promoting teams, events, or gaming products through digital campaigns, influencer partnerships, and social media strategy. A background in branding and audience engagement is essential.
- Event Coordinator or Tournament Organizer: Plans and executes live and online gaming events, from local tournaments to international competitions. This includes budgeting, venue logistics, and coordinating with players, sponsors, and broadcasters.
- Sponsorship and Partnership Manager: Builds and maintains relationships with brands and sponsors. This role involves identifying partnership opportunities, negotiating deals, and ensuring sponsor visibility during events or streams.
- Content Creator or Media Manager: Produces engaging content such as videos, livestreams, interviews, and behind-the-scenes features for teams, organizations, or platforms. Knowledge of streaming tools, editing software, and gaming culture is crucial.
- Esports Analyst or Strategist: Provides insights into game performance, audience trends, and competitive landscapes. Often works with teams, brands, or platforms to optimize strategy and performance.
- Gaming Community Manager: Serves as a liaison between organizations and their fanbase, managing forums, responding to feedback, and fostering positive online engagement. This role is key to maintaining a loyal and active community.
Professionals entering this industry—whether from esports, tech, or public safety backgrounds—may even transition into adjacent fields like emergency planning or event logistics. For example, graduates of an accelerated online master's degree in emergency management may bring valuable risk management and crisis response skills to large-scale esports tournaments and international gaming expos.
The chart below shows the esports market revenue in 2021 by segment. From this, you can tell which career path in the esports industry has the most significant impact to revenue growth.
What is the job outlook for graduates of online esports business degree programs?
The job outlook for graduates of online esports business degree programs is promising, fueled by the rapid growth of the global esports industry. With billions of dollars in revenue, expanding audiences, and increasing corporate investment, there is a rising demand for skilled professionals who understand both the business and gaming sides of the industry.
From team management to marketing, event production, and sponsorships, opportunities are emerging across various sectors. Some students also strategically combine their esports training with broader business-focused credentials, such as the fastest online bachelor's degree in supply chain management, to position themselves for roles in logistics, merchandise distribution, and operations within the gaming and events ecosystem.
However, while the industry offers exciting potential, it is also competitive and fast-paced, requiring graduates to combine formal education with practical skills and industry connections to stand out.
Here’s an overview of the job outlook for graduates in this field:
- Rapid industry growth: Grand View Research reports that the global esports industry is valued at approximately $2.13 billion and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 23.1% from 2025 to 2030, indicating rapid and sustained expansion.
- Expanding employment opportunities: Over 70% of esports organizations are investing in upskilling and reskilling, leading to more professional and managerial positions in data analytics, event production, and sponsorships .
- Educational programs on the rise: Universities—including those in the UK, U.S., Belgium, and others—are launching degrees in esports management, business, and psychology. Partnerships with industry stakeholders are making graduates more work-ready.
- High placement rates for esports grads: Some U.S. schools report job placement rates above 78%, especially in media, marketing, and event roles. Separate reports also noted that full time positions accounted for over 90% of all gaming job vacancies.
- Projected employment growth: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the overall employment in entertainment and sports occupations is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations from 2023 to 2033. About 108,900 openings are projected each year, on average.
The image below shows how eSport and eGaming have become increasingly popular among users. This means growing revenues and market value, which, in turn, means more jobs generated.
Here's What Graduates Have to Say About the Fastest Online Degree in Esports Business
- Earning my esports business degree online allowed me to keep working while I studied, which was a huge advantage. The flexibility meant I could complete assignments around my schedule and still attend live gaming events. I loved that the courses were practical, with real-world case studies that applied directly to the esports industry. It gave me the confidence to step into a management role after graduation. Phil
- I was nervous about doing my degree online at first, but it turned out to be the best decision I’ve made. The virtual classrooms were engaging, and I connected with students from around the world who share my passion for gaming. The program taught me how to turn my love for esports into real business skills like sponsorship management and event planning. Now, I feel ready to grow my career in this exciting field. Sierra
- Studying esports business online fit perfectly with my lifestyle as both a gamer and a part-time worker. I appreciated the accelerated courses, which allowed me to finish my degree faster without sacrificing quality. The instructors had real esports experience, and their insights made the learning feel personal and relevant. I graduated feeling prepared and motivated to break into the industry. Elton
Key Findings
- The revenue in the Esports market worldwide is projected to reach US$4.8 billion in 2025.
- The e-sports market size in 2024 was $2.73 billion, according to the Business Research Company.
- The total number of games industry vacancies dropped by 19.16% in 2022. Full time positions accounted for over 90% of all gaming job vacancies.
- Marketing was the fastest-growing hiring sector in the games industry, boosting its share by 6.35%.
- Overall employment in entertainment and sports occupations is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations from 2023 to 2033, with about 108,900 openings projected each year.
Other Things You Should Know About the Fastest Online Esports Business Degree Program
What is esports in the first place?
Esports, short for electronic sports, refers to competitive video gaming where individuals or teams play against each other in organized tournaments, leagues, or matches. These competitions often involve popular video games like League of Legends, Counter-Strike, Dota 2, Valorant, and Fortnite, among others. Esports has evolved from casual gaming into a professional, global industry with millions of fans, lucrative prize pools, and corporate sponsorships.
Top players and teams compete in live events streamed to massive online audiences, sometimes filling entire stadiums with spectators. Beyond the players, esports also involves coaches, managers, marketers, event organizers, broadcasters, and business professionals who help run this fast-paced, billion-dollar industry.
Do I need to be a gamer to enroll in an esports business degree program?
No, you don’t need to be a competitive gamer to pursue this degree. While a basic understanding of the esports industry is helpful, the program focuses on business, marketing, media, and management principles. Students come from a variety of backgrounds, including sports management, digital marketing, and entrepreneurship. Passion for gaming and entertainment is a plus, but not a requirement.
Are internships available or required in online esports business programs?
Many programs offer optional or required internships with esports teams, game developers, or marketing firms. These can often be completed remotely or locally, depending on the student's location and chosen organization. Internships provide hands-on experience and networking opportunities in a fast-moving industry. Some programs also allow students to use prior esports work experience as credit.
Is an esports degree recognized by employers in the gaming industry?
As esports becomes more mainstream, specialized degrees in the esports business are gaining recognition from employers. Programs from accredited universities with industry partnerships often carry strong credibility. Employers value applicants with both academic knowledge and real-world esports experience, which many online degrees are structured to provide. Having a degree focused on esports also signals a serious, long-term commitment to the field.
References:
- Brierley, C. (2022, December 22). Hitmaker release video game job data from 2022. Hitmaker.
- Elad, B. (2025, April 21). Esports Statistics 2025: Market Growth, Viewership, and Trends. SQ Magazine.
- eSports Charts. (2025). Popular esports games in 2025 by viewership. escharts.com.
- Grand View Research. (2024). Esports market size, share & trends analysis report. grandviewresearch.com
- Hanson, M. (2024, August 31). Cost of Online Education vs. Traditional Education. Education Data Initiative.
- Statista. (n.d.) Esports-Worldwide. Statista.
- United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, April 18). Occupational Outlook Handbook: Entertainment and Sports Occupations. BLS.
