SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News) – Researchers and industry leaders explored the future of esports education during the 2026 Newhouse Impact Summit at Syracuse University on Thursday.
The discussion focused on how colleges are preparing students for careers in the gaming industry.
“It’s important to remember that we’re first and foremost universities,” said Amanda Cote, an associate professor at Michigan State University who researches collegiate esports. “We’re here to contribute to education and career preparation and helping our students be more thoughtful and well-rounded individuals.”
Colleges are building programs that teach skills in broadcasting, live streaming, public speaking and relationship management.
David Hedlund, professor and chair of sport management at St. John’s University, said esports has created new connections between academics and the gaming industry.
“Now there is this connection between academics and video games,” Hedlund said. “There are jobs that students can get in video games and electronic sports.”
Experts say esports programs could continue to grow as universities prepare students for careers in media, technology and entertainment.
Audio transcript: Esports expands beyond competition into career opportunities
Astrid Arias: On Thursday, researchers and industry leaders gathered at Syracuse University’s Newhouse Impact Summit to discuss how higher education is adapting to the growth of esports.
Arias: David Hedlund, a Sports Management professor and chair of the Division of Sport Management at St. John’s University, says the connection between gaming and higher education has created new opportunities for students.
David Hedlund: There are jobs that students can get in video games and esports, which are going to prepare them for careers in sports broadcasting or video games and esports.
Arias: Syracuse professor Nick Bowman says these programs teach students skills they can use beyond competition.
Nick Bowman: We’re going to teach them how to do something with the cultural media.
Arias: As esports continue to grow, colleges will play a bigger role in preparing the next generation of esports professionals.