This week’s blog is by Digital Curriculum Project Leader, Laura Louch at Dundee & Angus College. Colleges Scotland is marking the diversity and variety of work that Scotland’s 24 colleges do with our new blog series, 24 in 2024.

The global esports industry has experienced explosive growth in recent years, evolving from a niche interest into an industry sector with many career opportunities. At the forefront of this transformation, Dundee & Angus College is setting the benchmark for innovation and inclusivity in esports education.  As the first institution in Scotland to offer a degree-level qualification in esports, validated by the University of West London, Dundee & Angus is providing students with a complete understanding of the esports landscape.  

The programme, which goes beyond traditional gaming, includes event management, live production, broadcasting, sports psychology, and nutrition. Despite its rapid growth, the sector remains a predominantly young and male-dominated profession, with only 30% of the industry being female. Recognising the need for diversity and the demand for skilled professionals, Dundee & Angus College has created innovative pathways that not only teach the skills of competitive gaming but also open doors to the broader esports landscape.

Building a Future-Ready Workforce

The degree-level qualification equips students with a versatile skill set tailored to meet the diverse needs of the esports industry. As esports continues to expand, so too does the demand for skilled professionals who can cover all aspects of the esports industry, including event management, content creation, live production, sports psychology, nutrition and more. By covering a wide range of disciplines, the curriculum ensures that graduates are not only ready for the technical aspects of esports but are also prepared for careers that support and drive the industry forward.

Teaching the programme alongside industry professionals, Dundee & Angus have employed current international gamer, Adam Ryan onto the teaching staff.  Adam is committed to addressing the importance of mental health and well-being in esports and preparing students for the varied and evolving roles that esports offer beyond the competitive gaming element.  

Driving Inclusivity and Equality in Esports

To ensure that our esports offering is open to everyone from all ages, backgrounds and genders Dundee & Angus College launched a variety of programmes to promote inclusivity and diversity. Initiatives like our weekly esports Kids Club attract more than 100 young people aged 8 to 14 years to provide our young gamers with structured guidance and support from ECA certified youth esports coaches.  By breaking down barriers and providing early access to esports in supportive environments we ensure that young people are provided with a balance of screen time and physical activity. We have also partnered up with rural schools to provide them with the equipment to offer esports skills and development within their learning and teaching.

We have created our own After School esports Girls Club to provide a safe and supportive environment for girls to build their skills and confidence in the gaming world.  Providing young girls with the opportunity to develop a range of skills in the creative and digital aspects of esports, from gameplay and tactics to designing team logos and merchandise these programmes have fostered inclusivity and encouraged young people from all backgrounds to explore opportunities within esports. 

One of the most significant challenges in esports is the underrepresentation of women and other marginalised groups, with women making up only 30% of the industry.  To promote inclusivity within the industry we hosted ‘The Levelling Up Debate: Esports for Everyone’ panel discussion with industry leaders such as Lizzie Spires, Emma Rose, John Jackson, and Emma Williamson to highlight the vital contributions of women in esports and address the barriers they face. By creating spaces for dialogue and showcasing diverse role models, as well as the vital contributions of women in esports we have challenged typical stereotypes and inspired a new generation to pursue careers in esports, regardless of gender or background.

Industry Collaboration and Real-World Impact

The success of Dundee & Angus College’s esports education is built on strong partnerships with leading industry players like Corsair, Ninja Kiwi, and eRena. These collaborations have provided our students with invaluable resources, expertise, and real-world insights that enhance their learning experience. Our state-of-the-art facilities, including our esports arena, two industry-standard tournament rooms, a broadcasting studio and a recording booth are designed to mirror professional esports environments, giving students hands-on learning experiences with cutting-edge technology that simulates the real-world esports industry. This connection between education and industry ensures that graduates are not only well-trained but also highly employable in the fast-evolving esports landscape.

These industry partnerships also play a crucial role in curriculum development, ensuring that the content remains relevant and aligned with current industry standards. By working closely with these partners, the programme provides students with opportunities to engage with live projects, internships, and networking events that can lead directly to employment.

Creating a Community of Esports Enthusiasts

Beyond academic and technical training, Dundee & Angus College has a strong focus on building a community around esports. The launch of our very own competitive team and esports society has created a vibrant environment where students can engage with esports at all levels, whether they aim to compete professionally or simply enjoy the friendship that comes with gaming. Allowing all members of our College community to come together with a mutual interest in esports, regardless of ability or background, and promoting a culture of collaboration, inclusivity and a shared passion for esports. 

Students participating in the competitive team have already made a mark, competing in high-profile tournaments with major industry brands, such as Battle for Scotland and Dundee Duel which were hosted in our specialist studios at Gardyne. The team have had the chance to participate in a number of showcase events with Corsair, Kitplus and live on BBC Children in Need. The team currently participates across a number of game genres such as Rocketleague, League of Legends, Counterstrike and FIFA. 

Setting a New Standard for Esports Education

As the esports industry continues to grow, educational programmes that emphasise inclusivity, skills development, and industry alignment are setting new standards. By addressing the needs of a rapidly evolving sector and creating opportunities for underrepresented groups, these initiatives are making a profound impact on the esports landscape.

This approach is not just about filling seats in classrooms; it's about shaping the future of esports by developing a diverse, skilled, and forward-thinking workforce. Through innovative education and strategic partnerships, Dundee & Angus College is not only preparing students for the careers of today but also inspiring the next generation of leaders in the esports industry.