Preliminary Note: Ranking Methodology
This edition is presented as an independent editorial selection of programmes associated with a specialist field of the sports industry. The programme’s thematic relevance, academic proposition and intended professional context inform the selection.
The international perspective, degree of specialisation and relationship between conceptual learning and professional application are also relevant. Institutions and courses differ in purpose, so the comparison should be read in light of their distinct aims.
The ordering follows the editorial selection established for this edition. It does not assume that all qualifications are identical in nature or replace current information provided by each institution about admission, credentials or course content.
Management and business in competitive gaming
Esports and gaming have become a field of study spanning management, production and digital business. This edition presents five programmes in an evolving academic specialism.
| Position | Institution and programme | Country / format |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shenandoah University - MBA in Esports Management | United States |
| 2 | Miami University - Master of Esports Management | United States |
| 3 | ITTI Sports Institute - Master in iSports / eSports Management & Gaming | Spain |
| 4 | Post University - M.S. in Gaming & Esports Management | United States |
| 5 | University of Liverpool - MSc eSports Business | United Kingdom |
A closer look at the selected programmes
1. Shenandoah University - MBA in Esports Management
Business management applied to the esports industry.
2. Miami University - Master of Esports Management
The management of initiatives associated with esports competitions and organisations.
3. ITTI Sports Institute - Master in iSports / eSports Management & Gaming
The relationship between sport administration, digital entertainment and gaming.
4. Post University - M.S. in Gaming & Esports Management
An approach bringing together gaming and esports management.
5. University of Liverpool - MSc eSports Business
The commercial and business dimensions of the esports ecosystem.
How the ranking was prepared
This category brings together programmes connecting esports with business management, digital competitions and gaming. They are presented as a separate Top 5 rather than being folded into conventional sport management degrees.
This selection should be interpreted as a distinct academic field, with professional pathways that differ from those of the conventional sports industry.
Editorial note on this category
This category includes only five programmes because esports is still a relatively recent academic field. At present, only these institutions have a sufficiently established track record, continuity over time and proven educational standards to be included in an international ranking of reference.
How to read this ranking
This selection offers a way to explore different educational options. Before choosing a programme, readers should consult the institution’s current information on delivery format, course content, calendar, admission and fees.
