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Esports Advanced (Level 3)

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Overview

Esports Advanced (Level 3)

The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma in Esports is a dynamic, industry-focused qualification designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge required to succeed in the fast-growing world of esports. This course is ideal for students who are passionate about gaming, esports management, and the gaming industry, and wish to pursue a career or higher education in this field.

This qualification offers a comprehensive introduction to the esports world, providing you with both the technical and creative skills required to thrive in this exciting field. Whether you’re looking to become a professional gamer, work behind the scenes in event management, or move into marketing or business within the esports world, this course is designed to equip you with the knowledge to succeed.

Who is this qualification for?

The qualification is aimed at learners who want to progress to employment in the esports industry, possibly via an apprenticeship, or who may aspire to enter higher education.

The qualification is endorsed by the British Esports Association as being suitable for learners that want to work in the industry. This means that it will be recognised by employers and will support entry into the industry in a range of roles. When combined with other Level 3 qualifications, this qualification also offers learners the opportunity to progress to a broad range of higher education programmes, including bachelor’s degrees.

The Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Esports by BTEC offers students practical and theoretical knowledge in areas such as esports event management, game analysis, and esports business. Key benefits include hands-on experience through real-world scenarios, development of key skills like teamwork, leadership, and communication, and a pathway to careers in a rapidly growing industry. Students also benefit from industry connections, opportunities for progression to higher education, and access to cutting-edge technology. This qualification prepares students for professional and academic success in the esports field.

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Course information

Need to know

Entry requirements

Essential:

  • Four GCSEs at grade 9-4, including English Language or maths

Or

  • BTEC Level 2 Diploma in eSports

Active interest in gaming

 

What qualification will I gain?

Year 1: Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma in Esports

Topped up to Year 2: Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Esports.

 

How will I be assessed?

This qualification combines internal and external assessments, ensuring students are evaluated in various ways.

  1. Internally assessed units: These units are evaluated using assignments, project work, practical assessments, and other forms of internal assessment that reflect real-world esports environments.
  2. Externally assessed units: Some units involve external exams or assessments. These are designed to assess key knowledge and skills using timed assessments or controlled assessments that can be conducted under exam conditions.
  3. Assessment criteria: Students are assessed on their ability to apply knowledge and skills learned during the course to practical esports scenarios. The assignments will be marked based on the grade descriptors provided by Pearson.

Course content

What will I study?

The BTEC Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Esports offers learners a comprehensive introduction to the esports industry, helping them develop key skills and knowledge for various career pathways.

The course covers:

  • Industry and Careers: Exploration of career opportunities in esports and related sectors such as technology, business, and sport.
  • Performance Analysis: Understanding how to assess and improve esports performances.
  • Entrepreneurship: Learning about successful esports enterprises and developing the skills to plan and pitch a business idea.
  • Health and Wellbeing: Focus on the importance of physical and mental health in esports.
  • Event Management: Hands-on experience planning, coordinating, and managing esports events.

Work Placement/Industry Placement Opportunities:

  • Learners will have opportunities to gain real-world experience in an esports environments, including event management, team operations, and content creation.
  • Enhance professional skills such as leadership, communication, project management, and problem-solving, tailored to the esports industry.
  • Have opportunities to experience the behind-the-scenes workings of esports organizations, events, or marketing teams, gaining insight into potential career paths.
  • Build connections with esports professionals and organizations, creating pathways for internships, mentorships, and future employment opportunities.

Enrichment Opportunities:

  • Attend specialised workshops and sessions led by industry professionals, providing insight into the latest trends and career advice.
  • Participate in competitive college esports teams or local/regional tournaments to gain practical gaming and teamwork experience.
  • Trips/Visits esports arenas, industry expos, or tournaments to observe the esports ecosystem in action, offering a broader understanding of the industry.
  • Engage in health, wellbeing, and fitness programs designed to improve physical and mental resilience, crucial for long-term success in the esports industry.

Skills gained

Skills Gained in the Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Esports:

  • Teamwork & Collaboration: Working in groups on projects and events.
  • Leadership & Management: Organizing and directing teams or projects.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving: Analysing gameplay and creating strategies.
  • Communication Skills: Effective verbal and written communication.
  • Digital Literacy & IT Skills: Proficiency with esports technology and software.
  • Event Management: Planning and running live esports events.
  • Time Management: Balancing multiple tasks and deadlines.
  • Research & Analytical Skills: Investigating industry trends and player performance.
  • Marketing & Business Acumen: Promoting teams, events, and brands.
  • Adaptability & Flexibility: Adjusting to new games, trends, and technologies.
  • Creativity & Content Creation: Producing esports-related content.
  • Ethical & Professional Understanding: Knowledge of esports ethics and governance.
  • Self-Motivation & Independence: Managing personal learning and development.

Next steps

Higher Education (University Progression)

Students who complete the 2 years of Level 3 Esports will have the option to advance to higher education, where they can study more specialized subjects in esports, gaming, or related fields.

Potential degree courses include:

  • Esports Management: Focuses on the organizational and strategic aspects of esports, preparing students for leadership roles in the industry.
  • Game Design & Development: For those interested in the technical side of gaming, including game creation and development.
  • Sports Management: A broader course that encompasses management skills applicable to traditional sports as well as esports.
  • Media Studies/Journalism: For students interested in esports broadcasting, commentary, and writing.
  • Computer Science or IT: For a more technical and development-focused pathway, such as coding and game development.
  • Business & Marketing: Courses in business or marketing with a focus on the gaming and esports sectors.

Upon completing the two-year BTEC Level 3 Esports course, learners will have the opportunity to progress further by applying for a Level 4 Esports qualification. This higher-level course allows students to continue developing their skills and knowledge, preparing them for advanced roles within the esports industry or further academic study.

Career Progression in Esports Industry:

Esports-Specific Careers:

  • Esports Player: Competing in professional esports tournaments.
  • Esports Coach/Analyst: Leading and strategizing for esports teams, analysing player performance.
  • Event Manager: Planning and organizing live esports events, tournaments, and competitions.
  • Esports Manager: Overseeing day-to-day operations of esports teams or organizations.
  • Broadcasting & Commentary: Working as an esports commentator or analyst for live streams and events.
  • Social Media Manager: Managing the online presence of esports teams or gaming brands.
  • Content Creator: Producing video content, streaming, and gaming media for platforms like YouTube, Twitch, and TikTok.
  • Game Tester: Testing games for bugs, performance, and user experience.
  • Marketing & Sponsorship Specialist: Working with brands to market esports products or events and secure sponsorships.

Related Careers in Gaming & Tech:

  • Game Developer: Involved in designing and programming video games.
  • Web Developer: Creating and maintaining websites for gaming platforms, companies, or esports organizations.
  • Data Analyst: Analysing player statistics, game metrics, and business data for teams or gaming companies.
  • IT Support Technician: Providing technical support for gaming setups, servers, or equipment.

Entrepreneurship

For students interested in starting their own ventures, this course also offers knowledge that can be applied to starting a business in esports, such as:

  • Launching a game streaming channel or YouTube channel.
  • Creating an esports team or gaming organization.
  • Starting a gaming content creation agency or esports event management business.

Any questions?

If you would like to find out more about this or other courses, please use our Livechat below, or contact info@bedfordcollegegroup.ac.uk

Available Courses
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Starts: 08/09/2025
Type: Full Time
Length: 2 years
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Tresham College Kettering Campus
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Type: Full Time
Length: 2 years
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Central Bedfordshire College Dunstable Main Campus
Starts: 08/09/2025
Type: Full Time
Length: 2 years
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Disclaimer

Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information on the Website is correct, some details may be subject to change. The Bedford College Group reserves the right to make amendments to the courses, dates, fees or other details, and to make cancellations or changes if numbers are insufficient. In the unfortunate situation that we have to cancel a course we will refund your fees in full, but we regret we are not able to offer any refund if you withdraw from your course or fail to start, and you will be liable to pay any outstanding fees that may be due.

Additional Learning Support

If you have a specific learning difficulty or disability, are deaf or hearing impaired, our Additional Learning Support team are on hand to give you assistance whenever you need it. Email: ALSteam@bedford.ac.uk or call us on 01234 291333.

Any questions?

If you would like to find out more about this or other courses, please use our Livechat below, email info@bedfordcollegegroup.ac.uk or call us on 0345 658 8990.

Accessibility

We have access arrangements in place to help students with disabilities or any other particular needs. Call us on 01234 291000 or 01536 413123 for more information.

 

Additional formats

Course information sheets are also available in large print and audio formats. Call us on 01234 291000 to order your copy.