Is Esports Business a Hard Major? What Students Should Know in 2026

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

The esports business major is often misunderstood as either too niche or overly technical, but it requires a balanced blend of academic and practical skills. With over 40 U.S. universities now offering dedicated programs, enrollment has increased by 25% annually, reflecting growing industry demand.

This article will explore the course rigor, typical workload, and essential skills such as marketing and event management. It will also discuss how personal interests and prior experience influence whether the major feels demanding, helping students assess their fit for this evolving field.

Key Benefits of Esports Business as a Major

Esports business develops strategic, marketing, and management skills, ideal for career changers seeking industry-relevant expertise without starting from scratch.
It offers flexible learning paths that accommodate full-time workers, combining online resources with practical projects for professional growth.
Students gain confidence through real-world case studies and internships, preparing them to tackle challenging coursework and dynamic industry demands.

Where Does Esports Business Rank Among the Hardest College Majors?

Esports business is generally not ranked among the most challenging college majors in national surveys that measure workload intensity, technical demands, or practicum requirements.

Unlike engineering or physics, which often involve over 20 hours of weekly homework and significant lab time, esports business usually combines foundational business studies with practical industry-focused courses, case analyses, and occasional internships.

While there is no specific national ranking for esports business alone, programs related to business and sports management tend to be rated as moderately difficult, less intense than STEM fields but sometimes more demanding than liberal arts or communications majors in terms of workload and analytical rigor.

The difficulty of esports business varies notably depending on the university and the student's background. Some programs integrate advanced analytics or entrepreneurial projects, increasing the challenge for those less familiar with quantitative methods or the esports industry.

Students experienced in digital media or gaming may find it easier, whereas newcomers could face a steeper learning curve. Compared to traditionally harder majors like computer science or chemical engineering, esports business demands less coding or lab work.

Ultimately, perceptions of difficulty hinge on individual strengths, prior knowledge, and specific curricula, making esports business a moderately accessible but dynamic field for many students.

What Factors Make Esports Business a Hard Major?

Several academic and skill-related demands combine to make esports business a challenging major for many students. The complexity arises from a blend of rigorous academic standards, substantial workload, and specialized knowledge required to thrive in this field.

Academic Rigor: The academic rigor of esports business degree programs is significant, requiring students to master core business principles alongside specific esports industry insights. For instance, many programs enforce minimum grade requirements, such as a C or higher in all major courses.
Time Commitment: The esports business major workload and challenges include completing between 51 and 73 credits exclusively for major requirements, excluding general education. In addition, active participation in internships or managing esports events further increases the time students must dedicate to their studies.
Technical and Analytical Complexity: The curriculum demands a multidisciplinary approach encompassing business management, marketing, finance, and unique operational issues in esports. Students must navigate legal, ethical, and technological aspects.
Field-Specific Demands: Real-world applications such as digital strategy, team coordination, and event logistics are emphasized, demanding both leadership skills and technical proficiency. These fast-paced expectations raise the bar for student performance and thorough preparation.

Students interested in combining a demanding curriculum with industry relevance might find it helpful to explore an accredited accelerated bachelor degree online to manage time effectively while meeting these challenges.

Who Is a Good Fit for a Esports Business Major?

Understanding who should study esports business is essential for students aiming to succeed in this demanding major. Identifying key traits and backgrounds helps match students with the program's collaborative and fast-paced nature.

Dynamic Team Players: Students who thrive in team-oriented environments excel by leveraging strong communication and networking skills, crucial for group projects and event management in esports business.
Analytical Thinkers: Those with a knack for critical thinking and data analysis handle interdisciplinary coursework effectively, gaining an edge in strategy development and market trend evaluation.
Tech-Savvy Adapters: Ability to quickly embrace evolving technologies and industry trends helps students stay relevant and innovative within the esports sector's rapid changes.
Organized Planners: Strong organizational skills are vital for managing complex workloads, including event coordination and real-time logistics typical in esports business curricula.
Passionate about Gaming Culture: A deep interest in gaming and digital media culture connects students emotionally and intellectually to the field, enhancing motivation and engagement throughout their studies.

Students interested in esports business major requirements often come from diverse backgrounds such as business, technology, or creative fields.

For those seeking the easiest certifications to get that pay well, combining this major with strategic certifications can boost career opportunities while navigating the complex challenges of the esports industry.

How Can You Make a Esports Business Major Easier?

Many students find esports business challenging due to its blend of business knowledge, communication skills, and technological understanding. However, applying targeted strategies can significantly ease the academic workload and improve performance in this fast-evolving field.

Create a Steady Study Routine: Consistently reviewing core subjects like marketing and event coordination helps maintain a solid grasp on essential concepts throughout the program.
Optimize Time Management: Scheduling study sessions and balancing group assignments with hands-on experiences ensure all aspects of the curriculum receive adequate attention.
Build Core Business Competencies Early: Gaining a firm understanding of finance, operations, and management fundamentals makes advanced esports topics more approachable.
Engage with Esports Communities On Campus: Joining clubs or teams provides real-world practice, strengthens collaboration skills, and deepens commitment to academic goals.
Access Academic Support Resources: Utilizing tutoring, office hours, and workshops tailored to strategic marketing and event planning can reduce stress and clarify complex material.

A graduate who majored in esports business shared that initially juggling diverse subjects felt overwhelming, especially with balancing theory and practical projects. She found that attending faculty-led workshops and actively participating in the campus esports group transformed her approach to learning.

"The hands-on experiences combined with consistent check-ins with advisors made the difference," she explained. Reflecting on her journey, she emphasized that embracing both structured scheduling and community involvement turned a demanding major into an engaging and manageable pursuit.

Are Admissions to Esports Business Programs Competitive?

Admissions to esports business programs in the US are generally not very competitive. This is mainly due to lower applicant numbers and schools aiming to grow their esports offerings quickly.

Many universities have relatively high acceptance rates, sometimes exceeding 70%, reflecting the sector's emerging status and the desire to attract more students. Prerequisite requirements tend to be moderate, allowing easier access compared to more established business majors.

Selectivity varies depending on the institution, with some schools expecting a standard high school diploma and a baseline GPA, while others may look for specific coursework or esports-related experience.

Programs in tech-centric cities or those with a strong esports presence may see more competition. As the industry expands and more students show interest, some programs might increase their standards, but accessibility remains a priority overall.

When I spoke with a professional esports business major about admissions, he recalled the process as straightforward but not without its challenges. "I was surprised by how welcoming the program was," he said, noting that the application did not require extensive gaming experience or specialized credentials.

Still, he invested effort in highlighting his passion for the industry and relevant skills. "It wasn't just about meeting requirements-it was about showing genuine interest that set me apart," he reflected, appreciating the balance between openness and selectivity in esports business admissions.

Is an Online Esports Business Major Harder Than an On-Campus Program?

Online esports business programs are neither inherently harder nor easier than on-campus formats; the level of challenge depends greatly on individual preferences and circumstances. Factors such as self-discipline, learning style, and program design all influence the overall difficulty.

Below is a comparison highlighting key aspects of online vs on-campus esports business degree difficulty:

Academic Expectations and Workload: Both formats require completion of the same specialized and general business courses with similar academic rigor and project demands.
Pacing and Flexibility: Online esports business programs offer greater flexibility for working students, allowing them to progress at their own pace, which can be advantageous or challenging depending on their time management skills.
Interaction and Support: On-campus students benefit from immediate access to faculty, advisors, and peers, whereas online learners rely on virtual forums, emails, and scheduled meetings for feedback and collaboration.
Learning Environment: Immersive on-campus experiences like live tournaments and networking events help enhance learning, while online students must actively seek out virtual opportunities and maintain strong motivation to engage.
Unique Challenges: Online students face potential isolation and need self-motivation, while on-campus students navigate fixed schedules and campus commitments.

The flexibility of online esports business programs for working students is an important factor to consider for those balancing education with other responsibilities.

For those interested in fast-tracking their education, exploring the quickest way to get an associate's degree may provide additional options for entry into esports business roles.

Are Accelerated Esports Business Programs Harder Than Traditional Formats?

Accelerated esports business programs are generally harder than traditional formats due to their condensed timelines, faster pacing, and increased workload intensity. This structure demands students to learn the same material in a shorter period, which can heighten academic pressure and reduce opportunities for review.

Below is a comparison of accelerated vs traditional esports business programs highlighting key differences in course pacing, workload, and student experience:

Course Pacing and Content Density: Accelerated programs deliver the same number of courses in a compressed timeframe, intensifying weekly study requirements compared to traditional semesters.
Workload Management: Students balancing work or personal commitments may struggle more with accelerated formats due to limited flexibility and faster deadlines.
Academic Expectations and Skill Demands: Both formats require business, management, and communication skills, but accelerated programs compress assignments and exams into shorter blocks, leaving little room to fall behind.
Learning Retention and Stress Levels: Accelerated students often report higher stress and difficulty retaining complex concepts because of less time to reflect and apply knowledge.
Flexibility and Daily Scheduling: Traditional programs allow a steadier progression and more adaptable schedules, enhancing long-term retention and reducing burnout risk.

Prospective students should carefully compare traditional vs accelerated esports business programs to decide which format aligns best with their learning style and lifestyle.

For those researching program options, exploring non profit regionally accredited online colleges can provide valuable insights into available accredited degrees suitable for varied pacing preferences.

Can You Manage a Part-Time Job While Majoring in Esports Business?

Students majoring in esports business can often handle a part-time job, but whether they can balance both depends largely on course intensity, weekly workload, and personal study habits. The major includes demanding elements like lab hours, group projects, and technical assignments that require considerable time commitment.

Flexibility in work schedules also plays a crucial role, as rigid job hours can conflict with unpredictable academic demands. Therefore, while many students manage successfully, the ability to juggle work and study varies based on individual circumstances.

Typically, esports business students balance part-time employment by carefully managing their time and choosing course loads that fit their capacity.

They often prefer jobs offering flexibility, such as campus positions or remote work, to accommodate intense project cycles and peak academic periods like capstone courses.

The academic workload frequently includes reading-heavy business topics combined with specialized esports management tasks, which can be challenging.

Access to academic support services, such as online tutoring and study groups, further aids students in maintaining this balance. However, some may still struggle during high-intensity periods if their job demands or study habits lack adaptability.

What Jobs Do Esports Business Majors Get, and Are They as Hard as the Degree Itself?

Career paths for esports business graduates vary widely in difficulty, responsibility, and required skills. While some positions demand the same analytical rigor and strategic thinking emphasized in the major, others may feel less challenging or require different skill sets altogether.

The esports business degree career paths often lead to roles with diverse challenges and varying levels of intensity.

Esports Team Manager: Team managers oversee business operations, player scheduling, sponsorship negotiations, and organizational logistics. This role requires multitasking and strategic planning abilities comparable to those developed in the major.
Esports Marketing Specialist: These specialists create campaigns targeting gaming communities, demanding cultural fluency and creativity. The position involves less technical rigor than the major but presents competitive pressure to produce measurable results and a deep understanding of audience psychology.
Event and Tournament Organizer: Organizers handle the planning and execution of esports competitions, managing logistics, schedules, and participant coordination. This career is generally less demanding analytically but requires excellent organizational skills and real-time problem solving.
Sponsorship Manager: Sponsorship managers secure funding and negotiate deals between brands and esports organizations. This role matches the major's complexity in contract analysis and business acumen, making it equally demanding, especially during high-stakes negotiations and portfolio management.
Content Creator and Streamer: Content creators produce gaming footage, commentary, and entertainment content on platforms like Twitch and YouTube. This path is less demanding in formal business knowledge but requires technical streaming skills, audience engagement, and continuous content production.

The esports management jobs and salary potential can vary accordingly based on these differing job demands and responsibilities.

Prospective students interested in easing their transition into the workforce may also explore options at some of the cheapest online schools for job holders that offer flexible learning tailored to working professionals.

Do Esports Business Graduates Earn Higher Salaries Because the Major Is Harder?

There is no direct correlation between the difficulty of an esports business major and higher graduate salaries. Earnings in this field are influenced more by market demand and specialized skills than by the academic challenge of the program.

While mastering relevant business and esports knowledge can enhance job prospects, the rigor of the major itself does not guarantee better pay. Instead, salary growth depends largely on practical experience and the ability to meet industry needs.

The salaries of esports business graduates vary by job role, location, and experience. Professionals in esports management, team operations, or sponsorship often earn between $80,000 and $123,000 annually in the United States.

Geographic factors also play a key role, with North American esports experts averaging $210,000 per year. Graduates who combine business savvy with esports-specific technical skills tend to command premium wages.

The industry's steady growth-marked by an 18% annual increase in prize pools and a global audience of 640.8 million viewers in 2025-continues to drive strong demand for qualified candidates regardless of the major's academic difficulty.

What Graduates Say About Esports Business as Their Major

Hilary: "Pursuing esports business was definitely challenging, but the hands-on learning made it worthwhile. The coursework pushed me to understand the industry deeply, preparing me for a career in event management and sponsorships. Considering the average cost of attendance was around $25,000 per year, the investment felt justified by the career opportunities I gained. "

Mikaela: "Esports business wasn't an easy ride; balancing theoretical knowledge with practical projects required dedication. However, it opened doors for me professionally and helped me develop critical thinking skills relevant to the fast-growing industry. The cost was significant, but through budgeting and scholarships, I managed to make it feasible. "

Stan: "The major is definitely demanding, especially with its focus on marketing, analytics, and management tailored to esports. It has shaped my professional outlook and increased my confidence in pursuing executive roles. Although the tuition fees averaged $22,000 annually, I consider it a worthwhile expense given the specialized education. "

Other Things You Should Know About Esports Business Degrees

What skills do students typically develop in an Esports Business major?

Students in an esports business major develop skills in management, marketing, event planning, and digital media specifically tailored to the esports industry. They gain an understanding of game development economics, sponsorship deals, and audience engagement strategies.

These skills prepare graduates to work effectively within the growing esports market.

Are internships important for students majoring in Esports Business?

Yes, internships are highly important in esports business education. They provide practical experience and networking opportunities that can be critical for entering the competitive job market.

Many programs emphasize internships with esports organizations, marketing firms, or event coordinators to ensure students apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings.

Does the Esports Business major require knowledge of specific video games?

While an interest in gaming is beneficial, esports business majors are not required to be experts in specific video games. The focus is more on the business side, such as management and promotion within the industry.

Understanding game communities and trends helps but deep game skills are not mandatory.

Is networking more challenging in Esports Business compared to traditional business degrees?

Networking in esports business can be both challenging and rewarding. The industry is newer and rapidly evolving, so traditional business networks may be smaller or less established.

However, this also creates opportunities to connect closely with industry leaders, organizations, and niche communities that can accelerate career growth.