Algoma University’s gaming-focused programming is preparing the booming industry’s future movers and shakers to excel.
The gaming industry is on fire. Globally, video games and esports (gaming on a competitive level, typically involving organized, multi-player video game competitions) revenue totalled $215.6 billion (USD) in 2021, and this number is expected to grow. Virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and gaming are powerful growth drivers in the global entertainment and media industry, which currently boasts $2.3 trillion (USD) in revenue, according to PwC, with gaming content being the primary contributor to VR revenue.
The rising demand for esports professionals
This growth and innovation presents ample career opportunities. A recent study by PwC noted that by 2030, 23.5 million jobs worldwide will be using AR and VR. In Canada, the video game industry is estimated to create 135,773 direct jobs, 80,507 indirect jobs, and 50,977 induced jobs. The demand for business professionals in various positions within the esports industry is already high and set to continue rising.
Algoma University has become the place to go for young professionals seeking to carve out a career in gaming and esports. As the first university in Ontario to offer esports programming, Algoma has offerings both from a business perspective— its School of Business and Economics offers a Business of Esports Specialization — as well as from the development side — via its School of Computer Science and Technology, which has specializations in Mobile Software Engineering, Computer Game Technology, and Computer Game Technology/Creative Arts.
A recent study by PwC noted that by 2030, 23.5 million jobs worldwide will be using augmented and virtual reality.
State-of-the-art facilities, expanding Brampton campus
Algoma’s Business of Esports Specialization, developed in partnership with Amuka Esports, focuses on the business side of the gaming industry, highlighting the school’s unique leadership and insight in this space. By approaching the industry from a business management and development perspective, the Business of Esports Specialization teaches relevant skills to both esports enthusiasts looking to work in the industry and entrepreneurs who want to develop their own personal brand within the industry.
Algoma University has also integrated computer science and game development into its gaming and esports programming. The Computer Game Technology specialization in its School of Computer Science and Technology, for example, is considered to be one of the most advanced computer game technology specializations in the world. Students and researchers from all over the world come to learn and grow their skills in Algoma’s state-of-the-art computer labs.
Closing the skills gap
Recently, Algoma University launched the National Centre of Excellence in Brampton, Ont., in partnership with Unity, the world’s leading platform for creating and operating interactive, real-time 3D content. The centre will focus on training and development in real-time 3D platforms, accelerating innovative new education, training, and research opportunities for Algoma students. It will also upskill local talent, helping to close the skills gap in the gaming industry and to build a talent pipeline while also building new partnerships and providing synergies between the university and local school boards, community organizations, and industry.
