The world of competitive gaming, or E-sports, has exploded in popularity, and universities across the United States are taking notice. What was once a niche hobby is now a booming industry, and for the last 10 years colleges have been offering esports scholarships to attract talented gamers and build competitive teams. But it's not just about playing games; many programs are also integrating academic courses related to game development, creating a unique blend of competition and career preparation for those aiming to be the next generation of E-Sports leaders.
The Evolution of Esports in US Universities
Collegiate esports’s roots can be traced back to the early 2000s, with clubs and informal competitions springing up on campuses around the country. However, it wasn't until the mid-2010s that esports began to gain significant traction. Universities began recognizing the potential of esports to attract students, build communities, and ultimately enhance their brand.
In 2014, Robert Morris University in Illinois became one of the first to offer athletic scholarships for League of Legends players. Three years later, the University of Utah became the first Power Five school to launch a varsity esports program. And in 2018, Harrisburg University of Science and Technology became the first school to offer 16 full-ride gaming scholarships for its entire varsity roster. Since then, the number of institutions offering esports scholarships has grown exponentially and there are now more than 200 colleges and universities which now home to varsity teams in the field of competitive video gaming, governed by the National Association of Collegiate Esports (NACE).
What's Available?
Today, numerous colleges and universities offer esports scholarships for a variety of games, including League of Legends, Overwatch, Valorant, Rocket League, and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. These scholarships can range from partial to full tuition, depending on the institution and the player's skill level.
Beyond the Game: Laying the Foundations of a Career in the E-Sports Industry
There are also a growing number of universities who are broadening the number of academic courses relating to game development, providing students with the opportunity to pursue careers in game design, programming, animation, and other related fields. The combination of esports and game development education creates a unique and valuable skill set for students looking to enter the gaming industry, pursuing their passion while also gaining valuable academic skills. With the continued growth of the esports industry, this trend is likely to continue, opening even more doors for aspiring gamers and game developers.
Shawnee State University: A Pioneer in Esports and Game Innovation
One university that stands out for its commitment to esports and game development is Shawnee State University. Located in Portsmouth, Ohio, Shawnee State has become a powerhouse in collegiate esports, boasting a state-of-the-art esports arena and a robust academic program. They offer scholarships for various esports titles and provide students with opportunities to compete at a high level.
In the classroom, Shawnee State offers a Bachelor of Science in Game Design, allowing students to learn the technical and creative aspects of game development. This program covers areas like game programming, 3D modelling, animation, and level design, preparing students for careers in the rapidly growing industry. Shawnee State represents a perfect example of a university that understands the relationship between esports and game development and is nationally ranked #15 Top Game Design Programs in the world by The Princeton Review.
They offer two separate, but coordinated programs in digital simulation, one in Game Programming and one in Game Arts. Here, you’ll learn how to play with others, working as a team to make games that look great — and work. You’ll develop the skills you need to create the career path best suited for you. Whichever degree you choose, you’ll have opportunities to work with students in designated design roles through course assignments, multiple Game Jams, and the Senior Studio.
If you’re interested in turning ideas, art, sound, animation and music into games that work, Shawnee State’s Bachelor of Science degree in Gaming Engineering Technology may be the degree for you. This degree focuses on game programming, software development, and foundations of computer science. You’ll learn how to apply these skills to bring projects from concept to completion.
Or if creating a world of your own is your dream, Shawnee State’s Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Game & Simulation Arts may be right for you. You’ll study the art side of game design and gain core skills in traditional and digital art. You’ll learn how to bring your art to life through 3D animation, character design, and interface design.
Providing guidance with the latest developments and trends in gaming technology, the programs are led by experienced faculty members who routinely share their own professional experience in the classroom and provide opportunities to hear from and connect with established industry professionals – many of whom are alumni of the programs working in competitive game studios as well as in sales, programming, production, and more.
In addition to the academic course load, the university hosts several events and programs that allow gaming students to network, broaden their skills, and build their resume for future career paths. The Shawnee Game Conference – the longest-running academic game conference in the Midwest – provides students the opportunity to network with gaming organizations, demo games and skills developed on campus, and interact with gaming enthusiasts across several generations.
Sign Up to our Webinar: Monday 12th May | 7pm (UK Time)
In partnership with Shawnee State University, we are inviting aspiring gamers to join us for an insightful webinar on the opportunity to become an E-Sports student-athlete in the US.
Hosted by FirstPoint’s College Placement Consultant Murray Fraser, we’ll be joined by various guest speakers from Shawnee State, including Coach Assistant for E-Sports, Wirty Penix and Department Chair and Associate Professor for Game Engineering Technologies), Mr. Jason Witherell. We’ll cover studying Digital Simulation and Gaming from an academic perspective and discuss how you can forge a collegiate career in competitive E-Sports.
Tips for Getting Recruited
The recruitment process for esports scholarships is like that of traditional sports. Coaches look for players with exceptional skill, teamwork, and communication abilities. We’ve highlighted a few tips to increase your chances of getting recruited:
- Build a strong online presence: Create a professional profile on platforms like Twitch, YouTube, and Discord.
- Record your gameplay: Showcase your skills with high-quality gameplay videos.
- Participate in tournaments: Compete in online and offline tournaments to gain exposure.
- Contact coaches directly: Reach out to esports coaches at universities you're interested in.
- Maintain good academic standing: Colleges prioritize students who excel both in gaming and academics.
If you’re an ambitious and competition E-Sports enthusiast, you can register your interest with FirstPoint USA today and one of our expert consultants will be in touch to discuss the first steps towards a scholarship opportunity.
