Esports colleges are rapidly turning into a cornerstone of modern-day education. Gamers worldwide can enroll in these institutions to get quality education, connect with people, and explore their passion for gaming in a nurturing environment. What once seemed like a niche interest is now a career path that has captured the hearts and minds of millions of people.

Currently, there are over 540 million esports viewers globally and 3.5 million players in the US alone. Projections indicate these figures will only expand significantly in the coming years, allowing gamers to turn their passions into impactful careers.

Like traditional sports, esports colleges give gamers access to quality education, scholarships, top-tier gear, and a smooth transition from learning to becoming professional gamers. Students can participate in big national leagues such as LoL and VAL to gain global recognition in the industry. 

University of California, Irvine

In 2016, the University of California, Irvine (UCI) became the first to launch an official esports program. This milestone demonstrated the institution’s forward-thinking approach to integrating modern culture with traditional education. It was a bold move that prompted other universities and colleges to recognize the cultural significance and potential of college esports.

UCI has remained committed to inclusivity, initiating events and programs that bridge the gender gap within the industry. In the past, they had programs like the Girls in Gaming summer camp, which eventually merged into the general in-person camps. These initiatives provide mentorship, hands-on gaming experiences, and workshops to empower the next generation of gamers.

UCI deserves to be on your list of esports colleges thanks to housing a cutting-edge gaming complex on its grounds. The UCI Esports Arena features powerful gaming PCs, VR systems, consoles, and more. It’s a space where casual gamers and varsity esports teams can play, train, and compete.

UCI Achievements

Here are some achievements that set UCI apart from other esports colleges.

• League of Legends sponsorship
• VALORANT sponsorship
• Overwatch sponsorship
• Multiple national championship wins
• Academic programs in game design and interactive media
• Founding member of the University of California Esports Initiative

The University of Akron

The University of Akron is a top choice for esports enthusiasts, and it’s easy to see why. Its well-rounded program appeals to both varsity teams and casual gamers. The university boasts three state-of-the-art gaming facilities to meet any gamer’s needs, granting a sport in the big leagues of esports colleges. 

Players can visit the Zip Gaming Lounge in Williams Honors College, which features 24 gaming PC stations and five console stations. It’s the ideal place for students to relax, enjoy friendly matches, and compete for titles.

The Jean Hower Taber Student Union is the central hub for esports activities, offering 26 gaming PCs and ten gaming consoles. Varsity teams and gaming enthusiasts can learn, practice, and compete in this facility.

Akron conducts official esports activities at its premier venue, the Zips Esports Center, at the InfoCision Stadium. This arena, equipped with hyper-wall displays, a broadcasting studio, and other high-tech gear, is an exclusive destination for entertainment and competitive gaming.

Besides its stellar facilities, Akron offers esports business certificate programs. These 12-credit interdisciplinary programs provide students with practical knowledge and skills for profitable careers in the esports industry. Some classes included in this program include marketing principles, global esports business management, event management, applied sales in sports, and social media marketing.

Akron Achievements

Here are some reasons why Akron is among the A-listers of esports colleges. 

• Four-time winners of the Rocket League National Championship
• Winners in the Rainbow Six Tournaments
• Winners of over 20 national championships in the past 5 years
• Supporters of multiple esports clubs and teams
• Hosts of field trips, networking events, and speaker sessions

Boise University

Boise University is a top-tier esports college known for its inclusive community and focus on teamwork. It welcomes players of all backgrounds and skill levels, creating an environment where everyone can grow. Boise helps students build critical thinking, communication, and collaboration skills through events and innovative programs.

The university’s coaching program benefits players at every level, offering expert technical and strategic gameplay guidance. With some of the best coaches in the industry, students receive personalized training to reach their full potential. There’s also a world-class gaming arena to go with this high-class personnel. 

Financial barriers aren’t an issue at Boise University. The school provides scholarships and financial aid for new and current students, helping cover education costs so players can focus on gaming and academics.

Boise Achievements

Here’s why Boise ranks among the top esports colleges:

• Multiple-time winners of the Mountain West Rocket League Championship
• Recipients of the NACE honors for continuous outstanding performance and contribution to esports
• Recipients of the National Broadcast Team of the Year honors
• Honored as the institution of the year in the inaugural Scholars Collegiate Gaming Awards
• Winners of over 40 individual, team, and broadcast awards

Maryville University 

Maryville Esports University stands out for its top-tier facilities, expert coaching, and nationally ranked esports team. Its program is split into two: the varsity program and the community club.

The varsity program is dedicated to turning students into elite collegiate players. Its esports performance center offers a premium gaming experience with top-of-the-line PCs, lag-free gameplay, and advanced equipment, creating perfect learning, practice, and competition space.

Maryvillie is one of the elite esports colleges big on inclusivity, hosting events and providing equal opportunities for all students and gaming fans. This approach fosters a supportive and welcoming environment for everyone.

Maryville achievements

This leading North American esport college holds these accolades to its name: 

• Won four National League of Legends championship 
• Won Overwatch National Championship 
• Named the Esports Collegiate Program of the Year
• Won the NACE Esports Invitational Championship 
• It’s one of the six founding members of NACE

Miami University

Miami University in Ohio is home to the world’s first Division 1 varsity esports program. Students compete in major esports leagues, including League of Legends, VALORANT, Overwatch, NBA 2K, Super Smash Bros, and Ultimate.

The university features a state-of-the-art esports lounge and gaming arena where students can practice, learn, and compete. The lounge is also open during business hours for recreational gaming.

Miami University offers more than just esports competition. Its Bachelor of Science in Games + Simulation program teaches game design, 3D modeling, development, writing, and creative production. This program equips students with the skills needed for successful careers in the gaming industry.

Miami Achievements

Here are vital achievements contributing to Miami University’s status as a top-tier esports college.

• Established itself as a recruitment tool for talented gamers
• Host esports management program and summer camp initiative
• Won several state competitions
• Won several national titles in multiple esports competition

The University of Utah

The University of Utah hosts the Entertainment Arts and Engineering (EAE) program, one of the world’s leading video game development programs. Students in EAE learn game design, art, production, and engineering, preparing for careers in the gaming industry.

Utah’s esports program has secured partnerships with major brands like Rockstar Energy and Mountain Dew. These collaborations help improve gaming arenas and programs, ensuring students have access to top-tier resources.

The university also offers a Power Five varsity esports program, training students to compete at the highest collegiate level. Players benefit from expert coaching, cutting-edge hardware, and a professional gaming environment while participating in conferences like the Pac-12, Big 12, Big Ten, SEC, and ACC conferences.

Utah’s Achievements

Here are some of Utah’s achievements:  

• Leading participants of the Power Five varsity esports conference
• The first Power Five school to feature a varsity esports program
• Won multiple national titles and awards in Hearthstone, Overwatch, and Rocket League championships

The University of Texas at Dallas

The University of Texas at Dallas (UTD) is dedicated to inclusivity and creating a top-tier environment for its esports athletes. Gamers can enjoy the Sector 7 Energy Esports Gaming Arena, equipped with over 25 high-performance gaming PCs, RGB lighting, and 4 HD TVs for live streaming.

In spring 2025, UTD plans to open its state-of-the-art esports arena, Comets LANding. This new facility will feature 50 advanced PC gaming stations, premium gaming pods, and cutting-edge equipment for an immersive gaming experience.

UTD welcomes gamers of all genders and skill levels. Its flexible program allows students to explore various roles, including broadcasting, content creation, event organizing, and varsity esports competition, fostering a thriving and inclusive community.

UTD Achievements

UTD has achieved the following feats as an esports college: 

• Ranked in the top 12 of the Overwatch Collegiate Homecoming tournaments. 
• Two-time title winners of the National Super Smash Bros. Ultimate championship. 
• Ranked top 6 in the Collegiate Rocket Spring Championship 
• Ranked top 4 of the VALORANT Red Bull campus clutch tournament. 
• Hosts Summer gaming camps for hands-on esports experience.
• Host tryouts for all students to unlock their gaming passion.

Georgia State University

Georgia State University (GSU), through its Creative Media Industries Institute (CMII), offers a dynamic esports program open to all students. Participants gain hands-on experience in esports production, broadcasting, marketing, event planning, and content creation.

This program prepares students for success in both competitive gaming and the broader gaming industry. Esports athletes train with cutting-edge technology and world-class facilities, ensuring top-notch learning, practice, and competition.

As a member of the National Association of Collegiate Esports (NACE) and the Georgia Esports League (GEL), GSU provides students opportunities to compete on regional and national stages, showcasing their talents to potential industry leaders.

GSU Achievements

Here are some of GSU’s key achievements: 

• Won multiple regional and National Smite Championships
• Won numerous titles in the National Hearthstone Championship 
• Multiple wins and recognition in the League of Legends championship 
• Hosts the PantherLAN tournament, the most prominent esports tournament in the Southeast 
• Offers scholarships to esports players
• Partners with local companies and communities to provide many opportunities and real-world experience. 

University of California, Berkeley

The University of California, Berkeley, takes a well-rounded approach to esports, focusing on wellness, diversity, and community. It supports students in both their academics and gaming pursuits, with a program that encourages healthy social interactions, top-tier gaming opportunities, and the development of lifelong skills.

Berkeley is deeply committed to inclusivity, especially through its Women in Gaming initiative. This top esports college program promotes equality and empowers women by providing the resources they need to explore and excel in gaming.

UC Berkeley’s Cal Esports community center features a state-of-the-art gaming facility. It includes 55 high-performance gaming PCs, a player’s lounge, a Twitch broadcasting center, and more. This immersive space allows players to connect, practice, and sharpen their skills for esports competitions.

UC Berkeley Achievements

Top UC Berkeley achievements since joining the league of esports colleges. 

• Won the 2019 Starcraft 2 ESPN Collegiate Championship 
• Won first place in the 2018 Overwatch Fiesta Bowl Collegiate national championship 
• Won first place in the 2017 Overwatch Tespa Collegiate National Championship 
• Ranked top 4 in the Dota 2 2019 Collegiate Star League Championship

Harrisburg University of Science and Technology

Harrisburg University offers a top-tier esports program, allowing athletes to earn a Bachelor of Science in Esports management. The curriculum combines interactive media, business administration, and technology to prepare a new generation of esports professionals.

Students gain the skills needed for various roles, such as content creators, marketing managers, analysts, event managers, specialized coaches, and organizers.

Harrisburg also focuses on fan engagement and live event management, teaching students how to design, organize, and execute successful esports events. With this expertise, athletes can host outstanding competitions and conferences, shaping the future of the esports industry.

Harrisburg Achievements

Why this institution is a top esports college pick: 

• Won multiple national titles 
• Named the best collegiate esports program 
• Nominated for various NACE awards
• Offers fully funded scholarships and financial aids
• It has two top-tier gaming facilities

Columbia College

Columbia College was among the first institutions to recognize the potential of esports and offer scholarships to athletes. It emphasizes providing players with quality education, top-notch gaming equipment, and expert knowledge.

The college delivers exceptional coaching, helping students combine their understanding of traditional sports and esports to refine their skills and boost performance.

Columbia Achievements

Top Columbia College achievements in the world of esports. 

• Secured a League of Legend top honors in the Harrisburg University Esports Festival
• Secured second place at the 2018 College League of Legends championship 
• Won multiple collegiate Rocket League titles
• Qualified for the Red Bull Clutch regional tournament.

Robert Morris University Illinois

Robert Morris University (RMU) made history in 2014 as the first among esports colleges to offer esports scholarships. The program provides students with 50% tuition and room and board coverage, totaling $19,000 per individual.

This groundbreaking initiative has drawn top gaming talent, offering them access to high-quality education and advanced gaming resources. RMU also boasts some of the best coaches in the industry, who mentor and train students to excel in their performance.

RMU Achievements

• The first university to offer a scholarship for Legends of Runeterra.
• 3rd place finish in the NACE 2019 Fall Rocket League tournament
• Active community engagement 
• Variety of league game titles 

Esports College scholarships

In partnership with the North American Scholastic Esports Federation (NASEF), NACE offers college and high school students a $16 million scholarship. The NACE directory lists over 200 esports colleges, all of which are designed to help players achieve their potential without financial constraints. However, not all schools with varsity esports programs provide scholarships.

Some scholarships come from companies to help students attend certain universities. For example, Verizon’s Game Forward scholarship supports teams of five female students studying technology at schools like Delaware State, Dillard, Howard, Morgan State, and Texas Southern University. Winners also get internships with top gaming and tech companies.

Schools may also offer scholarships to attract talented gamers for varsity tryouts. Scholarship amounts depend on the school’s funding, team size, and the player’s skills. Requirements vary, but students must meet general admission criteria.

Tips to secure scholarships 

Here are tips to help you secure scholarships in top esports colleges: 

• Research institutions offering esports scholarships.
• Streamline your search to focus on institutions with established esports programs.
• Understand their requirements and application process. 
• Choose your game and practice regularly to gain a high ranking.
• Participate in tournaments to showcase your gaming skills and catch the attention of scholarship providers.
• Maintain a high GPA to demonstrate your ability to balance academic and esports responsibilities. 
• Stream your gameplay and participate in online tournaments to create a prominent online presence. 
• Seek recommendations from your teachers, coaches, and mentors to strengthen your scholarship application.
• Prepare a solid personal statement highlighting your passion, accomplishments, and future goals in the esports industry.
• Apply early 

The Future of Esports Colleges 

Esports, once just a college extracurricular, has become a significant program at many institutions. This fast-growing field will expand further with technological advancements and more immersive games. According to Gamingconcepts, over 90% of teens play video games. This situation creates a unique chance to use esports to teach STEM, critical thinking, teamwork, and communication skills.

Exciting incentives like scholarships, career opportunities, state-of-the-art gaming centers, and inclusivity have significantly boosted enrollments and student engagement.

In 2024, the global esports market is valued at $2.39 billion and is projected to reach $10.9 billion by 2032. With its proven success, more universities and colleges are likely to adopt esports programs.

Organizations supporting collegiate esports

Since the inception of collegiate esports programs, several organizations have helped shape the industry into what it is today. The most prominent ones include NACE, RSAA, VOICE, and VEF.

National Association of Collegiate Esports (NACE) 

NACE is the largest esports governing body in North America. Launched in 2016, this organization provides structure, resources, and support to universities and colleges. 

NACE organizes and oversees national championships, helps member institutions secure funding and scholarships, and establishes collegiate esports rules and regulations. 

Riot Scholastic Association of America (RSAA)

Riot was established to provide colleges and high schools a structured framework for participating in Riot Game Titles like League of Legends and VALORANT. It ensures fairness in gameplay by establishing rules that promote transparency and competitive integrity.

Riot also provides scholarship and funding aids to esports athletes, enabling them to balance their gaming and academic commitments. 

Voice of Intercollegiate Esports (VOICE)

Despite its rapid growth, the esports industry faces challenges. VOICE is an effective tool for navigating these challenges. As a nonprofit organization, it brings colleges and universities together to solve problems facing the community.

VOICE furnishes its members with relevant data, resources, and support to address challenges affecting the esports community, such as competition fairness and standards. 

Videogames and Esports Foundations (VEF)

VEF is a foundation that provides grants and scholarships to high schools and colleges to support esports initiatives and STEM diversity. Institutions desiring to upgrade their equipment, conduct research, or develop esports initiatives are eligible to secure funding. 

Parting Shots

Esports colleges offer game enthusiasts many benefits, from scholarships to academic support, career preparation, and industry connections. It’s the most secure and straightforward way to go from an amateur gamer to a successful pro.

The universities and colleges we have mentioned have robust esports programs to take gamers to the next level. Browse through the list and explore these institutions to find the perfect one!