Beyond the game: redefining esports careers

There are an estimated 500 million people working in esports worldwide; fewer than 10% of them are actual players. Esports, or electronic sports, refers to organized, multiplayer video game competitions, and while these competitions are open to all, an increasing number of individuals and teams play at a professional level. 

Competitions around the world attract massive viewership, community involvement and substantial revenue. The 2025 Esports World Cup (EWC 25) alone attracted 750 million viewers, over 3 million on-site visitors and more than 350 million hours watched online. EWC 25 brought together more than 2,500 players and team staff from 89 nationalities. Across 25 tournaments, competitors played 871 matches with over $70,000,000 in total prize money on the line. 

With Ohio University’s esports certificate, students can explore the thriving industry with an academic credential attached. Specializations include game design, information technology (IT) and business. The J. Warren McClure School of Emerging Communication Technologies  offers degrees in virtual reality, gaming and networking. These programs equip students with skills in content creation and management of esports facilities, ensuring that the technology necessary for esports competitions is properly implemented and running efficiently.

Historically, esports jobs included competitive team managers, program directors, coaches and players. Jeff Kuhn, director of Ohio University Esports, has been in the field for nearly 25 years. He says one thing that’s surprised him is the sheer growth of the industry. He’s seen former OHIO students pursue careers as broadcast engineers, content creators, dietitians and psychologists, all within the realm of esports. Kuhn says the University’s decision to create an esports certificate reflects what he sees in the job landscape.

“Lately, these companies often want subject matter experts who are familiar with esports, including nutritionists, exercise coaches and broadcasters,” Kuhn says.

Health-related esports jobs are especially on the rise as esports athletes meet intense physical and mental demands, including rigorous training, strategic thinking and high-level coordination and reflexes. Ohio University’s offerings reflect this; students from various colleges are enrolled in the esports certificate.

Senior Shrinidhi Vaideeswaran is one such example. An international business and business analytics major, she coordinates with the players and production crew to ensure that the Valorant competitive season broadcasts run smoothly and efficiently. Every Tuesday night, the team competes against other universities in the Esports Collegiate Conference, and she helps make each weekly broadcast a success.

“There are a lot of moving parts, but our goal is always to make the show just a show,” she said. “When we’re not on air, we want to make sure everyone can come in here, learn what to do and have this beautiful experience that is college.”

Vaideeswaran also communicates with sponsors and partners, including Red Bull and OUCU , coordinating events and handling the logistics alongside Kuhn.

“I’ve gained a wide range of experience here,” she said. “It’s cool that I can apply what I learn here to my classes, but I can also apply what I learn in my classes back here.”

Vaideeswaran said she uses public speaking, time management and organizational skills daily. She anticipates graduation this spring and plans to pursue a career in human resources.

While esports started small, the industry continues to flourish and expand. Companies like Faze Clan and Team Liquid host global invitationals with sponsors including Coca-Cola, Intel and MasterCard. For more casual gamers, the Esports Arena in Scripps Hall offers high-end gaming PCs and multiple consoles open to all (OHIO) students to play during operation hours.