New Higher-Level Esports BTEC Qualifications Launched in the UK

British Esports and Pearson have recently launched new higher-level BTEC qualifications in esports. These include the Level 4 Higher National Certificate (HNC) and the Level 5 Higher National Diploma (HND), equivalent to the first and second years of a university degree.

These new qualifications built on the success of the Level 2 and Level 3 BTECs in esports, which had been introduced in 2020 and delivered to nearly 10,000 students across more than 160 schools and colleges worldwide. The HNC and HND were designed to open up more professional pathways into esports and provide valuable transferable skills relevant to the wider digital and creative industries.

The curriculum features 30 units covering topics such as esports coaching, management, and event production. Developed in partnership with industry professionals, these qualifications aim to meet the increasing demand for skilled talent in the esports sector while also supporting progression from higher education into employment.

Several international centres had already begun delivering the new qualifications, and UK institutions, including Sunderland College, confirmed they would offer the courses from September 2024. Students at Sunderland College also gain access to the National Esports Performance Campus, providing state-of-the-art facilities and professional-level resources.

Kalam Neale, Head of Education at British Esports, commented:

“We’re proud to have launched the Higher Nationals in Esports tht will continue to strengthen the workforse of the future, and provide students with greater options and accessibility when pursuing a career in esports or in other creative industries.”

Freya Thomas Monk, Managing Director of Vocational Qualifications & Training at Pearson, added:

“The new HNC and HND qualifications provide a seamless progression path for esports students eager to transition to the next level of their education journey – supporting the creation of long-term careers in the growing esports industry both in the UK and internationally.”

These qualifications mark a significant step forward for students passionate about esports, providing a recognised and structured route into one of the world’s fastest-growing industries.