Best Online Esports Business Degree Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from an online esports business degree?

An online esports business degree program is designed to prepare students for the business and management side of the competitive gaming industry. It blends traditional business education such as marketing, finance, leadership, and entrepreneurship with specialized esports coursework, covering event planning, sponsorship management, and digital media production.

Students learn how the esports ecosystem operates, including how to manage teams, run tournaments, attract brand partnerships, and build fan engagement. Most programs are offered fully online, allowing students to balance their studies with work or personal commitments. This degree is ideal for individuals who are passionate about gaming but want to work behind the scenes in roles that drive the industry’s growth.

Graduates can pursue careers in team operations, event coordination, content management, and business development across gaming organizations, media outlets, and event firms. As the esports market continues to expand globally, the need for business-savvy professionals in the space is growing fast.

Where can I work with an online esports business degree?

Graduates of an online esports business degree often find opportunities in a range of industries tied to gaming, media, and entertainment. The most common employment sectors include esports organizations, game publishers, live event production companies, marketing agencies, and sports media outlets. These employers rely on professionals who understand both business fundamentals and the unique dynamics of competitive gaming. Graduates may also work in higher education, managing collegiate esports programs, or in the tech sector, supporting gaming platforms and digital infrastructure.

Typical employers and industries include:

• Esports teams and leagues
• Game developers and publishers
• Streaming and media platforms
• Event and tournament organizers
• Brand agencies and sponsors investing in gaming content

The skills gained through this degree also make it possible to launch your own gaming-related venture.

How much can I make with an online esports business degree?

Graduates of an online esports business degree can expect to earn competitive salaries in various roles across the esports industry. For instance, esports marketing managers in the U.S. typically earn a median total pay of around $106,000 per year, with base salaries in the $76,000 range and potential bonus or commission earnings of $30,000 or more.

Similarly, esports analysts tend to make an average base salary of about $74,000 annually, with typical ranges from $66,000 to $82,000 depending on geography and employer. Sponsorship and partnership managers may earn between $65,000 and $110,000 per year, depending on deal size and organization scale.

Entry-level positions, such as team managers or junior coordinators, often start in the $40,000 to $60,000 range. With experience, moving into senior management or director-level positions can push salaries to $100,000 or more, especially at major esports teams, leagues, or event firms.

For comparison, roles like esports coach or analyst may earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on game title and team performance. Overall, those graduating with this degree can position themselves for mid-tier to senior business roles in the growing esports ecosystem.

Best Online Esports Business Degree Programs for 2025

For students aiming to combine a passion for gaming with strong business expertise, a fast track entertainment business degree online can provide the ideal pathway. These programs teach essential skills in management, marketing, and event production while focusing on the fast-evolving world of competitive gaming and esports.

1. Walsh University – BBA in Esports & Gaming Management

This BBA in Esports & Gaming Management degree from Walsh University provides a strong foundation in core business principles such as marketing, management, and finance, with a specialized focus on the esports and gaming industry. It aims to equip graduates with the skills needed for the business and operations side of competitive gaming. 

The target market for this program includes individuals looking to gain a comprehensive business background specifically tailored for the rapidly growing esports and gaming industry, such as aspiring event coordinators, sponsorship/partnership associates, community engagement specialists, and game marketing coordinators. 

• Program Length: 2-4 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: Esports & Gaming Management
• Cost per Credit: $240 - $510 per credit hour 
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credits
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

2. Shenandoah University - MBA in Esports Management

This MBA in Esports Management from Shenandoah University prepares students for advanced leadership positions within the esports field. It combines the rigorous core of an MBA with specialized courses focusing on the unique aspects of esports business, digital media, and organizational management, often emphasizing experiential learning and international partnerships. 

The target market includes individuals who have already earned a bachelor's degree and are looking to advance into high-level management, senior marketing, or strategic roles within esports organizations, or to start their own esports ventures.

• Program Length: 12 months for full-time students
• Tracks/Concentrations: Esports Consumerism, Esports Entrepreneurship, Esports Digital Media Management
• Cost per Credit: $365.05 per credit hour 
• Required Credits to Graduate: 33 credits 
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), AACSB International.

3. Miami University of Ohio - Master's in Esports Management

Miami University offers a Master of Esports Management and an Esports Management Graduate Certificate. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the esports ecosystem, focusing on best practices for managing professional esports teams and supporting businesses.

The target market includes professionals already in the sports industry looking to apply their skills to esports, individuals studying or working in related business or sports management fields with an interest in esports, corporate professionals involved in sponsorships or marketing, entrepreneurs, and college athletic staff looking to enhance their understanding of esports programs.

• Program Length: 18-24 months 
• Tracks/Concentrations: Esports Management 
• Cost per Credit: $358 per credit hour
• Required Credits to Graduate: 36 credits 
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and/or Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

4. Dakota State University – BBA in Esports Management

Dakota State University's BBA in Esports Management prepares students for leadership roles in the business and operations side of competitive gaming. It provides a robust business background with a focus on esports administration, event management, finance, and marketing within the industry.

The target market includes lifelong gamers, casual fans, or individuals new to esports who are interested in the business, marketing, event management, and operational aspects of competitive gaming. 

• Program Length: 4 years 
• Tracks/Concentrations: BBA in Esports Management  
• Cost per Credit: $458.31 per credit
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credits.
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

5. University of North Dakota – BS in Esports

University of North Dakota's Bachelor of Science (BS) in Esports is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for various roles within the expanding esports industry. It provides a foundation to step into the gaming industry in diverse ways, focusing on strategic insights and interpersonal skills.

The target market includes students who want to be part of the future of gaming and the esports industry in varied roles beyond just business. This includes aspiring coaches, media producers, entrepreneurs, translators, graphic designers, and IT professionals who want to apply their skills to esports. 

• Program Length: 4 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: Esports Coaching, Esports Communications, Esports Business, Esports Translation, Esports Graphic Design, Esports IT
• Cost per Credit: $458.31 per credit 
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credits
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

6. American Military University (AMU) – BS in Esports

American Military University's Bachelor of Science in Esports is designed to build knowledge and skills in both the business and coaching elements of the discipline. It covers the business of esports, event and facility management, policy regulations, player development, and media and production. It is one of the few programs explicitly accredited by COSMA for sport management.

The target market includes individuals interested in both the business and coaching/player development aspects of esports. Given AMU's nature, it's particularly appealing to active-duty military, veterans, and their families, as well as a broader online student population seeking a flexible and accredited program.

• Program Length: 4 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: Esports Coaching and Athlete Development
• Cost per Credit: $350 per credit
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credits
• Accreditation: Commission on Sport Management Accreditation (COSMA)

7. Post University – BS in Gaming & Esports Management

This online BS in Gaming & Esports Management from Post University covers various topics within the electronic gaming ecosystem, from esports competitions and leagues to advertising and sponsorships. It includes aspects of game design and development, the psychology of video gaming, ethics in gaming, sales, project management, and economics, providing insights and skills for a future in the gaming and esports industry. 

The target market includes individuals looking for a comprehensive understanding of the business and operational aspects of both general gaming and competitive esports, suited for those seeking roles in gaming distribution, esports sales, operations, marketing, and management.

• Program Length: 4 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: Gaming & Esports Management
• Cost per Credit: $629.00 per credit
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credits
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

8. Champlain College Online – BS in Esports Management

This BS in Esports Management program offered by Champlain College Online provides a cutting-edge education in esports operations, teaching students to apply core management fundamentals tailored to the esports industry. It covers creating go-to-market digital distribution strategies and understanding the nuances of managing esports teams, events, and leagues, with an emphasis on real-world application.

The target market includes students seeking entry-level positions across the esports industry, including roles in esports management, operations, brand management for gaming partnerships, and sponsorship coordination. It's designed for those who want a comprehensive understanding of the business and operations side of esports with a strong emphasis on practical skills.

• Program Length: 3 - 4 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: Esports Management
• Cost per Credit: $335 per credit
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credits 
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

9. Culver-Stockton College – BS in Esports & Gaming Administration

The BS in Esports and Gaming Administration online program of Culver-Stockton College focuses on preparing students for careers in the booming gaming industry, particularly in esports and gaming administration. It emphasizes applying principles of marketing, sales, and distribution to the games industry, alongside understanding the history and cultural significance of games and esports. It's designed to provide flexibility and industry connections. 

The target market includes individuals seeking careers in gaming distribution, esports sales, esports operations management, esports research, and esports marketing. Their online program is delivered in 8-week courses, with multiple start dates per year, implying flexibility for accelerated completion.

• Program Length: 2 to 4 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: Esports & Gaming Administration
• Cost per Credit: $395 per credit.
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credits
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

10. Northwood University Online – Online BBA in Esports Management 

Northwood University offers Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) with a concentration in Esports Management designed to prepare individuals for careers in esports administration and management within interscholastic, intercollegiate, and professional esports organizations, as well as with esports event organizers and entrepreneurial ventures.

This program provides a robust business background with a specific focus on the business of esports, preparing graduates for leadership roles in the field. Northwood's online programs are designed for adult learners, offering flexibility and potentially allowing for accelerated completion through options like Credit for Prior Learning.

• Program Length: 2 - 4 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: Esports Management
• Cost per Credit: $910 per credit
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credits
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

How long does it take to complete an online esports business degree program?

An online esports business degree typically takes four years to complete for full-time students pursuing a bachelor’s degree. Most programs require around 120 credit hours, similar to traditional business degrees, and are structured to cover general education, core business courses, and specialized esports-focused subjects. These include marketing, management, event planning, and digital media tailored to the gaming industry. Some schools offer accelerated formats, allowing students to finish in as little as three years by taking courses year-round.

For students attending part-time or balancing work and other commitments, the degree may take five to six years to finish. Many online programs are designed with flexibility in mind, offering asynchronous classes, self-paced modules, or extended timelines.

Additionally, transfer students with prior college credits or an associate degree may be able to graduate sooner, depending on the institution’s credit transfer policy. Always check with the school for specific program lengths and options for acceleration or credit recognition.  If you are looking for more information on affordable online graduate programs, you can explore options for cheap online master's programs.

How does an online esports business degree program compare to an on-campus program?

An online esports business degree program offers the same core curriculum and learning outcomes as an on-campus program but delivers it through a flexible, digital format. Students study subjects like marketing, esports event planning, sponsorship, and business management, often taught by the same faculty as in-person classes.

Online programs typically use virtual simulations, discussion boards, video lectures, and interactive tools to create engaging learning experiences. They're ideal for working professionals, adult learners, or students who need a more flexible schedule.

However, on-campus programs may provide more opportunities for hands-on experiences—like managing live events, using advanced broadcasting equipment, or networking through campus esports clubs and tournaments. Face-to-face interaction with peers, faculty, and industry professionals can also strengthen collaboration and job prospects. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your learning style, career goals, and need for flexibility. Both formats can prepare you for careers in the growing esports business landscape—just as best online MBA in management programs prepare graduates for leadership across industries.

Educational requirements for sports team managers can vary, but many professionals hold degrees in business, sports management, or related fields. The chart below shows the typical levels of education attained by individuals in this role.

What is the average cost of an online esports business degree program?

The average cost of an online esports business degree program typically ranges from $25,000 to $60,000 for the full four-year program, depending on the school and whether you're paying in-state or out-of-state tuition. That breaks down to about $300 to $500 per credit hour, with most programs requiring around 120 credits to graduate. Some private or specialized colleges may charge more, while public universities often offer more affordable tuition, especially for in-state students.

Additional costs may include technology fees, books, and optional materials related to gaming or broadcasting. However, online students often save money on housing, transportation, and campus-related fees. Many schools also offer financial aid, payment plans, and scholarships specifically for esports or business students, helping reduce the overall expense.

If you're concerned about both cost and workload, consider exploring some of the easiest majors in college that still offer strong career prospects. It's smart to compare programs not just by cost, but also by the value of their curriculum, support services, and internship opportunities.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online esports business degree program?

Students enrolling in an online esports business degree program have access to a range of financial aid options, similar to those available for traditional on-campus degrees. The most common is federal financial aid, including Pell Grants, Federal Direct Loans, and Work-Study programs, which are available to U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens who complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Some schools also offer state-level grants and institutional scholarships, which may be based on merit, need, or specific interest in esports or business.

In addition, many colleges provide scholarships specifically for esports, such as those tied to collegiate esports teams or student involvement in gaming communities. Private scholarships, offered by gaming companies, tech firms, and nonprofit organizations, are also an option. Students who are veterans, military members, or part of underrepresented groups may qualify for specialized aid or tuition discounts. 

For those seeking a quicker path to credentials, some schools even offer a 6 month associate degree online, which may open doors to esports-related careers faster.

Lastly, some employers offer tuition reimbursement for programs related to business or digital media, so working students should check with their HR departments.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online esports business degree program?

Prerequisites for enrolling in an online esports business degree program typically align with general undergraduate admission requirements. Most programs require a high school diploma or GED, along with submission of official transcripts. Some schools may ask for a minimum GPA, usually around 2.0 to 2.5, though more competitive programs might expect higher. Standardized test scores like the SAT or ACT may be optional or waived, especially for online or adult learners.

While a background in gaming isn’t required, applicants with interest or experience in business, marketing, or digital media may have an advantage. Some programs may also ask for a personal statement, letters of recommendation, or proof of English proficiency for international students (e.g., TOEFL or IELTS scores).

Prior coursework in business, economics, or technology can strengthen your application, but isn’t mandatory.  For those looking to advance quickly after earning a bachelor’s, one year masters programs online offer a fast track to specialized careers in digital business and management.

Esports management offers a variety of career paths with competitive salaries across roles in marketing, operations, and team leadership. The chart below highlights average salary ranges for key positions in the esports industry.

What courses are typically in an online esports business degree program?

An online esports business degree program typically includes a mix of core business courses, esports-specific classes, and general education requirements. These courses are designed to build a strong foundation in business operations while focusing on the unique aspects of the competitive gaming industry. 

For students eager to graduate sooner, many schools offer accelerated degree programs online that let you complete your studies in a shorter time frame without sacrificing quality.

• Introduction to Esports Industry: Overview of the global esports ecosystem, including teams, leagues, publishers, and trends.
• Esports Marketing and Branding: Strategies for promoting esports events, teams, and content through digital and social platforms.
• Event and Tournament Management: Planning, organizing, and executing live and online esports competitions.
• Business and Financial Management in Esports: Basics of budgeting, revenue generation, sponsorships, and business planning.
• Esports Media and Streaming Technology: Tools and techniques for livestreaming, broadcasting, and content production.
• Legal and Ethical Issues in Esports: Covers contracts, intellectual property, player rights, and regulation in the gaming space.
• Leadership and Team Management: Managing esports teams, developing leadership skills, and fostering team dynamics.
• Data Analytics in Esports: Using data to drive strategic decisions in performance, marketing, and audience engagement.
• Digital Entrepreneurship: Building and launching esports-related ventures, from streaming businesses to gaming startups.
• Capstone or Internship Project: A final project or real-world internship to apply learned skills in a professional esports setting.

What types of specializations are available in online esports business degree programs?

Online esports business degree programs may offer specializations or concentrations that allow students to tailor their studies to specific career paths within the esports and gaming industry. These specializations combine core business education with targeted courses that deepen expertise in a particular area. In 2024, among sports team managers, 24% have a business major.

• Esports Marketing and Brand Management: Focuses on digital marketing, influencer strategy, sponsorships, and social media campaigns for esports teams and products.
• Event and Tournament Management: Prepares students to organize and manage live and virtual esports events, including logistics, budgeting, and audience engagement.
• Esports Media and Content Production: Emphasizes livestreaming, video editing, broadcasting, and multimedia storytelling for platforms like Twitch, YouTube, and Kick.
• Team and Player Management: Covers athlete development, coaching, team operations, contract negotiation, and player support services.
• Gaming Entrepreneurship: Focuses on launching esports startups, managing gaming businesses, or building your brand as a content creator or coach.

Some schools also allow students to combine esports studies with general business disciplines, like finance or operations, for broader career flexibility. Choosing a specialization helps align your degree with specific job goals, such as marketing manager, tournament director, team coach, or esports analyst.  If cost is a concern, consider looking into an affordable online bachelor's degree to keep expenses low while still gaining valuable credentials.

How do you choose the best online esports business degree program?

To choose the best online esports business degree program, start by evaluating accreditation and credibility. Look for schools that are regionally accredited, ensuring your degree is recognized by employers and graduate programs. Also, verify if the program offers a curriculum grounded in core business principles alongside esports-specific training, such as event management, sponsorship, media production, and team operations.

Next, consider factors like program format, flexibility, and cost. If you’re working or need a self-paced schedule, prioritize asynchronous or part-time options. Compare tuition rates, financial aid availability, and any transfer credit policies. It’s also smart to research whether the program includes internships, industry partnerships, or capstone projects, which can help you gain real-world experience. Finally, read alumni reviews, check graduation and job placement rates, and see if the school has a competitive esports team or networking opportunities in the gaming industry.

What career paths are available for graduates of online esports business degree programs?

Graduates of online esports business degree programs can pursue a wide range of career paths that blend traditional business skills with the fast-growing esports and gaming industry. Many roles focus on management, marketing, operations, and media production within professional teams, gaming organizations, or event companies.

1. Esports Team Manager: Oversees day-to-day team operations, player contracts, travel, and logistics.
2. Esports Marketing Specialist: Develops branding strategies, manages social media, and builds sponsorship deals.
3. Tournament or Event Coordinator: Plans and executes live or online gaming events, from logistics to promotion.
4. Sponsorship and Partnership Manager: Secures and manages relationships with brands, advertisers, and gaming partners.
5. Content Creator or Streaming Producer: Produces livestreams, podcasts, or video content for esports teams or organizations.
6. Business Development Associate: Identifies growth opportunities for esports companies and develops strategic plans.
7. Community Manager: Engages with fans and players, manages online communities, and builds loyalty around teams or games.
8. Broadcast or Esports Media Coordinator: Manages production of esports events and ensures high-quality viewing experiences.

These careers span the competitive gaming scene, corporate roles in game publishing, tech startups, and even collegiate esports. With the industry rapidly expanding, graduates can also transition into entrepreneurial ventures, such as launching their own esports org, brand, or platform—similar to the versatile career opportunities seen in best bachelor's degree in sports management programs.

Esports academic programs cover a wide range of focus areas to prepare students for diverse roles in the gaming and business industries. The chart below outlines common concentrations found in esports degree programs.

What is the job market like for graduates of an online esports business degree?

The global esports market has grown rapidly—reaching around $1.38 billion in 2023 and projected to top $4 billion by 2025, with high growth rates across major regions including North America and Asia-Pacific. Sponsorship and advertising revenue is a key driver—expected to exceed $6 billion in 2025, supporting roles in marketing, partnerships, and brand management. Organizations are investing in talent and upskilling—over 70% offer employee training, with a 35% growth in coaching salaries, and growing demand for skills in analytics, streaming tech, and leadership.

As a result, the industry currently supports approximately 64,000 full-time roles globally—roles such as analysts, event staff, content producers, agents, and managers—and these numbers continue rising with growing audience engagement (estimated nearly 577 million followers and rising).

That said, career entry can be competitive. The esports field remains relatively niche with tight job markets—as echoed by industry professionals who report limited openings and high competition, especially at larger, better-known organizations. The broader video game sector has also faced mass layoffs—35,000 jobs lost globally between 2022 and May 2025—affecting intersecting roles in games and esports operations.

To succeed, many advise building transferable skills in areas like marketing, event planning, analytics, and digital content—skills that offer broader career flexibility in adjacent industries, much like graduates of best management information systems online degree programs leverage across fields.

Should I pursue an online MBA after my esports business degree?

Combining an online esports business degree with an online MBA can enhance strategic management skills and broaden career opportunities. This approach allows professionals to build on industry-specific expertise while mastering comprehensive business disciplines such as finance, leadership, and global market analysis. Graduates aiming for advanced executive roles may find that supplementing their specialized esports education with traditional MBA coursework offers a competitive advantage. For additional insights on this educational pathway, consider reviewing the most affordable online MBA programs.

Here's What Graduates Have to Say About Their Online Esports Business Degree Program

Other Things You Should Know About The Best Online Esports Business Degree Programs

Is esports management a good major for gamers?

Yes, esports management is a strong choice for gamers who want to turn their passion into a professional career. It teaches the business side of gaming—such as marketing, sponsorship, team management, and event planning. While it doesn’t focus on gameplay or performance, it helps gamers work behind the scenes in a growing industry. It's ideal for those who enjoy the strategic and organizational side of esports.

Can an esports business degree lead to a career in game development?

Not directly. Game development typically requires skills in programming, design, or art—areas not heavily covered in esports business programs. However, graduates can pursue business-related roles in game studios, such as marketing, project management, or community relations. Pairing this degree with technical training can open more doors in development.

Are esports degrees focused more on business or gaming?

Esports degrees are primarily focused on business with a gaming industry context. Students learn core business subjects—like finance, branding, event management, and media strategy—tailored to esports environments. The programs don’t usually include hands-on gameplay or game design. Instead, they prepare students for roles behind the scenes in the competitive gaming world.

What role does business education play in the growth of esports?

Business education provides the foundation for sustainable growth in esports. It equips professionals with skills to build brands, secure sponsorships, manage teams, and organize profitable events. As esports matures, business-savvy leaders are essential to manage operations, expand markets, and attract investment. Without strong business infrastructure, the industry can't scale successfully.