Syracuse University’s Esports Program: A Leader in Innovation and Inclusion

Introduction to the Esports Program

Syracuse University is at the forefront of esports education with its comprehensive Esports Communications and Management major. This program, offered through the Newhouse School, combines innovative gaming environments and technology with the sports media industry, preparing students for a dynamic and rapidly growing field.

Fostering Inclusion and Diversity

The esports program at Syracuse University is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive culture. Recognizing that gaming spaces often lack inclusivity, the program mandates courses in ethics, diversity, gender, and law for all students. This emphasis on diversity aims to drive innovation and growth within the industry and among individuals. Students engage with diverse populations locally, regionally, nationally, and globally, interacting with professionals across the esports and related industries.

Tracks and Specializations

The program offers several tracks to cater to different career aspirations:

Esports and Business Management

In this track, students learn about sports promotion, venue management, and finance for emerging enterprises. Key topics include sponsorship contracts, business and sports analytics, and the financial and managerial aspects of working with players, organizations, teams, and companies. Students gain a thorough understanding of the resources needed to produce and manage events, products, and successful teams.

Esports Communications

This track focuses on public relations and social media tactics in the esports world. Students learn about content creation and strategy, event production, directing, shoutcasting, and promotion. They also gain hands-on experience in streaming competitions and managing social media campaigns.

Esports Media and Design

Here, students delve into producing games with compelling visuals and developing game attributes such as skins. The curriculum includes classes in 3D animation, game experience design, and virtual production. Students learn to create visually dynamic games influenced by psychology, statistics, broadcasting, and marketing.

State-of-the-Art Facilities and Experiential Learning

Syracuse University boasts state-of-the-art production and gaming facilities, including the Barnes Center at the Arch and the upcoming Gaming and Esports Center in the Schine Student Center. The Marley Building, set to be the academic and competitive home for esports, will feature a stage for competitions, broadcast and production spaces, team rooms, classrooms, and viewing areas for up to 250 spectators.

Students have ample opportunities for experiential learning, including hosting and participating in esports events on campus and collaborating with other colleges and organizations. The program also offers potential experiential learning trips to cities like London, Seoul, and Amsterdam, providing global insights into the esports industry.

Competitive Teams and Community Engagement

Syracuse University’s competitive esports teams compete at varsity, club, and recreational levels. These teams offer students roles such as social media managers, casters, and analysts, allowing them to practice their skills in event production, management, and broadcasting. The student-run Esports Club organizes local community events, engages with industry professionals, and travels to work at professional esports events.

Industry Partnerships and Real-World Experience

The program is affiliated with the Newhouse Sports Media Center and has collaborated with industry partners like Twitch, ESL, Microsoft, and Super League. Students develop skills by working on real-world projects, such as enhancing a company’s social media strategy and content management. This hands-on experience prepares students for careers in the esports industry and beyond.

Awards and Recognition

Syracuse University’s esports program has been recognized for its excellence, winning the 2024 Emerging Program of the Year award at the National Association of Collegiate Esports (NACE) National Convention. This accolade underscores the program’s commitment to leading the way in esports education.

Pre-College and Continuing Education Opportunities

For high school students, Syracuse University offers a summer course, “Introduction to the Business and Ecosystem of Esports.” This course provides a holistic understanding of the esports industry, covering topics such as business operations, production, event management, and coaching. Students work with local esports organizations and create broadcasts for esports events, gaining practical experience in the field.

Career Opportunities and Industry Growth

The esports industry is rapidly expanding, with a current worth of approximately $1.1 billion and a viewership of 474 million. From 2018 to 2019, jobs in esports increased by over 110%, with paid positions rising by 87%. The skills learned through the esports program align with top desired skills for the future workforce, as outlined by the World Economic Forum. Students are well-prepared for careers not only in esports but also in related fields such as sports management, marketing, and media production.

Conclusion

Syracuse University’s Esports Communications and Management program stands out as a leader in esports education, offering a comprehensive and inclusive curriculum, state-of-the-art facilities, and extensive experiential learning opportunities. With its strong industry partnerships and recognition, this program is poised to continue shaping the future of the esports industry.