HND Esports

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.

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.

48 UCAS Points

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.

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.