Jump directly to main content Jump directly to menu

HND Esports

An HND for turning a passion for esports into a professional career, from managing tournaments to leading teams and producing digital content.

Got a question? Ask us

Why choose this course

  1. Developed by Pearson with the British Esports Federation
  2. Gain practical experience planning and running live esports events
  3. Hands-on workshops in streaming, audio-visual production and gameplay analysis
  4. Campus-based learning designed to mirror the professional esports environment
  5. Roles such as Tournament Coordinator, Broadcast Producer and Team Manager

Overview

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.

Read the full overview

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.

What you’ll study, level by level

Levels 4 to 5 · 15 units

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.

  1. Level 4

    • Esports EcosystemUnit 401
      A comprehensive look at the professional landscape and how the industry functions.
    • Skills and Tactics AnalysisUnit 402
      Developing the ability to evaluate high-level performance and gameplay strategies.
    • Event Planning and DeliveryUnit 403
      Gaining practical experience in the planning and execution of live esports events.
    • Planning an Esports ProjectUnit 404
      A Pearson-set unit designed to develop critical project management and thinking skills.
    • Audio-Visual ProductionUnit 408
      Focusing on the technical skills needed to produce high-quality media content for the sector.
    • Streaming and BroadcastingUnit 409
      Learning the fundamentals of live broadcast technology and digital distribution.
    • Wellbeing, Lifestyle and HealthUnit 412
      Understanding the physical and mental health requirements for athletes and professionals in the field.
    • Game Design PhilosophyUnit 415
      Exploring the core concepts and mechanics that drive successful game development and player engagement.
  2. Level 5

    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:

    • Professional DevelopmentUnit 501
      Focusing on the high-level skills, qualities, and professional behaviours required for career success and personal management in the industry.
    • Esports Research ProjectUnit 502
      A Pearson-set unit where students conduct independent research into a specialized area of interest within the esports sector.
    • Social Media ManagementUnit 505
      Learning to build and manage digital communities, handle online brand presence, and navigate social landscapes.
    • Content CreationUnit 506
      Developing advanced techniques for producing engaging digital media tailored specifically for esports audiences.
    • Creative Direction and NarrativesUnit 508
      Exploring the storytelling side of esports, from branding team identities to directing the creative flow of broadcasts and events.
    • Team and Player PsychologyUnit 509
      Diving into the mental side of performance, including motivation, stress management, and the psychological dynamics of competitive teams
    • Game Analytics and Statistical InsightsUnit 513
      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.

How you’ll learn

You’ll learn through lectures, workshops and practical and lab sessions, with independent study in between.

  • Lectures
  • Workshops
  • Practical and lab sessions
  • One-to-one tutorials
  • Online learning platform
  • Independent study
Read more about how you’ll learn

The primary way of delivering this programme is through a campus-based, in-person experience designed to mirror the professional esports environment. Our approach combines high-level technical instruction with hands-on vocational practice to ensure you are industry ready.

We believe that the best way to learn esports is to be part of the community. Your education will consist of:

  • On-Campus Lectures and Tutorials: Core theoretical foundations are delivered in person, allowing for immediate feedback and collaboration with tutors and peers.
  • Supervised Technical Workshops: Hands-on sessions in our production and gaming hubs to master streaming, audio-visual production, and gameplay analysis.
  • Blended Learning Content: Outside of scheduled classes, you will engage with digital resources including industry podcasts and directed research tasks to prepare you for upcoming sessions.

Meet us at an open event.

Next: Tuesday 5 January 2027, 4:30pm to 6:30pm

Book an open event

Where it can take you

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

  • Tournament Coordinator
  • Event Manager
  • Tournament Administrator
  • Media Production Coordinator
  • Broadcast Producer
  • Content Creator
  • Coaching Professional
  • Team Manager
  • Analyst
  • Team Logistics Manager
  • Social Media/Community Executive
  • Marketing Manager
  • Esports Partnership Manager
Read more about careers and progression

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.

Found where you fit?

Entry requirements

Don’t have the standard qualifications? You may still be able to apply.

48UCAS points

48 UCAS Points

Taken a different path?

We are committed to creating educational opportunities for people from a variety of backgrounds and situations. If you have been out of formal education for some time, and/or you do not have the qualifications stated, we might still be able to consider your application and offer you a range of support. We are here to help. Please get in touch to find out more.

Ask a question

Fees and funding

£8,190

a year for UK students

Financial support

UK students can take out a tuition fee loan to cover the cost of their course and a maintenance loan to cover living costs.

We also have a range of other financial support available.

Additional costs

Your Tuition fees cover most costs associated with your course (including registration, tuition, and assessment).

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

There may be some extra costs that you might need to make, or choose to pay, for example:

  • Books (you’ll have access to books from your module reading lists in the HE library, but you may wish to buy your own copies)
  • Printing and photocopying
  • Trips and enhancement opportunities

Questions about funding?

Across the group

Next steps at our other colleges

University Campus North Lincolnshire

Your next step

Apply now, come and see us first, or ask us anything.

Ready to apply?

Apply direct to us, online.

Want to visit first?

Open Event – 5th January 2027Tuesday 5 January 2027, 4:30pm to 6:30pm

What happens after you apply

1

You apply

Apply direct to us online, and we’ll reply by email.

2

You hear back

You’ll get an unconditional offer, a conditional offer, or an unsuccessful application.

3

You get ready to start

Before you enrol we’ll need photo ID and copies of your certificates. Apply for Student Finance early.

Read our full guide to applying

Quick reference for careers advisers

Level

Level 5

Duration

2 years

Study mode

Full-time

Awarding body

Pearson

Visit us Apply now