With worldwide revenue of more than $1.1 billion as of 2019 and a project increase to nearly $1.8 billion by 2022, the esports market just keeps getting bigger and bigger. As you may already know, colleges around the world have taken notice, with intercollegiate programs sprouting up just about every other day. Today, we would like to tell you about three.
We are pleased to announce that Alfred State College of Technology – State University of New York (SUNY), Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE), and Newberry College have launched their very own esports programs, with some practices and tournaments set to stream online. Read on.
Alfred State College of Technology – SUNY, Alfred, New York
Not only has Alfred State College of Technology (ASC) launched a brand new esports program, to complement the program , the school plans to launch Game & Interactive Design AS and BS degrees this Fall. Per the school, “students in these programs will be exposed to many different facets of interactive media, and will become prepared for a wide variety of occupational opportunities, including game design, UX (user experience design), interactive entertainment, and more.
In addition to the opportunity to earn a degree in Game & Interactive Design, the school says members of the ASC esports team will have the “opportunity to go head-to-head against other colleges in many competitive games” including League of Legends, Overwatch, Rainbow Siege Six, and Super Smash Bros. “With the creation of this team as a club sport,” said ASC Director of Student Engagement, Troy Morehouse, “we now offer competitive opportunities to a wider range of students.”
Players have access to the Esports Suite in the Student Leadership Center, which “provides the team with new computer equipment and a high energy environment for players to practice and compete.” ASC’s esports advisor and the student coach will assist in training players, and “promote best practices for a responsible balance of academic study and team play.” The Esports Suite is in addition to another Games Nation Suite for console game players.
Milwaukee School of Engineering, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) has launched a new esports program that “offers students a team-based approach to gaming, where they're encouraged to advance to the next level,” says the school. Since the launch, 80 students have qualified for teams that will compete with other colleges across the country. Students will compete in competitive games such as Overwatch, League of Legends, Hearthstone, and Rocket League.
Gamers have access to a lounge in the school’s Kern Center that's designated for practice with state-of-the-art computers, headsets, and chairs. Practices and tournaments will be streamed online.
Newberry College, New Berry, South Carolina
Newberry College has launched an intercollegiate esports program for the 2019-2020 season. Newberry is already a member of the National Association of Collegiate Esports (NACE) and the team will compete in Overwatch and League of Legends. Per a Newberry press release, “students will win a seat on the team roster based on their playing ability and will be eligible for gaming scholarships.” In addition, “a recreational league will be offered concurrently for students preferring more casual competition or seeking to hone their gaming skills to be considered for the intercollegiate ranks.”
“This is an excellent opportunity for Newberry to establish itself in the arena of competitive gaming,” said Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Sid Parrish. “Not only will we attract a new segment of students to campus who are highly motivated and technologically savvy, they also will experience the benefits of team competition that strengthen their connections to their teammates and enhance the overall student experience in college.”