The College of Journalism and Mass Communications at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is excited to announce that a new undergraduate certificate in esports media and communication was approved by the University of Nebraska Board of Regents on Aug. 8. The 15-credit-hour certificate will prepare students for careers in the rapidly growing esports industry. Final approval will be given by Nebraska's Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education.
The esports media and communication certificate is a natural extension of the college's popular sports media and communication major. Students will explore media coverage, data analysis, branding, athlete/audience engagement, content creation and live streaming within an esports context.
"With this certificate, we aim to provide our students with unique opportunities to develop and showcase their talents in the esports industry," CoJMC Associate Dean for Academic Programs Adam Wagler said. "The future of esports is bright and we are proud to be a part of it."
In 2023, the number of employees in the video gaming industry in the United States reached over 286,000. In 2025, the global gaming market is estimated to amount to $503.14 billion, compared to 2023’s $396 billion.
This 15-credit-hour certificate is designed both for students passionate about esports and for those interested in learning more about the industry. While gaining a basic awareness of game design and development, the certificate will primarily focus on media and communication.
Students will be equipped with a comprehensive education in key areas of the esports industry. They will gain a deep understanding of the industry's dynamics, sports promotion, content strategy and the societal role of video games, instilling in them a sense of confidence and readiness for their future careers.
"We are excited to offer the Esports Media and Communication certificate in the College of Journalism and Mass Communications," Shari Veil, the Jane T. Olson Dean of the College of Journalism and Mass Communications said. "Esports is a booming industry, with job opportunities across multiple disciplines. This certificate ensures our students have the foundational knowledge and applicable skills to thrive as the field continues to grow."
The certificate program is comprised of existing courses regularly offered by the CoJMC. The required courses are SPMC 291: Intro to Esports, JOMC 317: Video Games & Society and SPMC 464: Sports Media Relations and Promotion. Students will also select two of the ten elective options to complete the certificate's required 15 hours.
In their elective courses, students will develop and apply skills in media production, shoutcasting, storytelling with data, web and UX design, social media and brand strategy.
Admission to the esports media and communication certificate program is open to all University of Nebraska-Lincoln students in good academic standing. Additionally, the program is available to non-UNL students, including those from community colleges, other institutions or K-12 educators.
As the program progresses, it will undergo annual assessments to ensure its effectiveness. College faculty will review learning outcomes, student feedback and industry trends to inform curriculum updates as needed and to add additional sections or new courses.
The CoJMC is committed to providing a cutting-edge education that aligns with industry demands and the esports media and communication certificate is another significant step in this direction. We look forward to welcoming students to this exciting new program and helping them pave the way for successful careers in the Esports industry.
