Esports

Embark on a dynamic journey into one of the world’s fastest-growing industries. Developed by Pearson in collaboration with the British Esports Federation, this undergraduate-level qualification is designed to bridge the gap between passion and a professional career.

Whether you are looking to manage global tournaments, lead high-performance teams, or produce world-class digital content, this programme provides the technical expertise and employability skills needed to thrive in the global marketplace.

Why Choose This Course?

• Student-Centred Learning: The curriculum uses a flexible, unit-based structure that focuses on practical and applied skills.

• Industry Standards: The course represents the latest professional standards, offering opportunities to work on group projects and vocational activities.

• Employability Focus: You will develop core competencies in areas such as problem-solving, leadership, and commercial awareness of the esports sector.

While we have high spec PCs on Campus you may wish to invest in a Gaming PC if you don’t already have one.

Depending on your focus the qualification can lead to a variety of roles across the sector:

• Operations & Events: Tournament Coordinator, Event Manager, or Tournament Administrator.

• Production & Media: Media Production Coordinator, Broadcast Producer, or Content Creator.

• Team & Athlete Support: Coaching Professional, Team Manager, Analyst, or Team Logistics Manager.

• Business & Marketing: Social Media/Community Executive, Marketing Manager, or Esports Partnership Manager

You will also have a Level 5 qualification on completion of the course which will allow you to apply for a top-up Programme.

We offer a top up in Game Development internally which you may wish to progress on to.

Modules

This course includes the following core modules that all students complete:

The Level 4 units lay the foundations of learning by providing a broad introduction to the esports industry. These units develop core skills while preparing students for the technical and personal responsibilities required in the workplace.

• Unit 401: Esports Ecosystem – A comprehensive look at the professional landscape and how the industry functions.

• Unit 402: Skills and Tactics Analysis – Developing the ability to evaluate high-level performance and gameplay strategies.

• Unit 403: Event Planning and Delivery – Gaining practical experience in the planning and execution of live esports events.

• Unit 404: Planning an Esports Project – A Pearson-set unit designed to develop critical project management and thinking skills.

• Unit 408: Audio-Visual Production – Focusing on the technical skills needed to produce high-quality media content for the sector.

• Unit 409: Streaming and Broadcasting – Learning the fundamentals of live broadcast technology and digital distribution.

• Unit 412: Wellbeing, Lifestyle and Health – Understanding the physical and mental health requirements for athletes and professionals in the field.

• Unit 415: Game Design Philosophy – Exploring the core concepts and mechanics that drive successful game development and player engagement.

In Year 2, the curriculum shifts toward managerial and professional-level expertise. Students will deepen their understanding of esports principles and learn to apply them effectively across complex, real-world scenarios.

The following core modules are completed by all Level 5 students:

• Unit 501: Professional Development – Focusing on the high-level skills, qualities, and professional behaviours required for career success and personal management in the industry.

• Unit 502: Esports Research Project – A Pearson-set unit where students conduct independent research into a specialized area of interest within the esports sector.

• Unit 505: Social Media Management – Learning to build and manage digital communities, handle online brand presence, and navigate social landscapes.

• Unit 506: Content Creation – Developing advanced techniques for producing engaging digital media tailored specifically for esports audiences.

• Unit 508: Creative Direction and Narratives – Exploring the storytelling side of esports, from branding team identities to directing the creative flow of broadcasts and events.

• Unit 509: Team and Player Psychology – Diving into the mental side of performance, including motivation, stress management, and the psychological dynamics of competitive teams

.

• Unit 513: Game Analytics and Statistical Insights – Using data to drive decision-making, analysing player performance metrics, and extracting meaningful insights from gameplay data.

Occasional changes to modules and course content may take place. Students will be notified when applicable.

https://www.ucdon.ac.uk/courses/dhc00443-1-hnd-esports/

Depending on your focus the qualification can lead to a variety of roles across the sector:

• Operations & Events: Tournament Coordinator, Event Manager, or Tournament Administrator.

• Production & Media: Media Production Coordinator, Broadcast Producer, or Content Creator.

• Team & Athlete Support: Coaching Professional, Team Manager, Analyst, or Team Logistics Manager.

• Business & Marketing: Social Media/Community Executive, Marketing Manager, or Esports Partnership Manager

You will also have a Level 5 qualification on completion of the course which will allow you to apply for a top-up Programme.

We offer a top up in Game Development internally which you may wish to progress on to.