ALLIANCE, Ohio – The University of Mount Union has announced the addition of competitive esports to its student life offerings beginning in the fall of 2019, and the institution will be able to offer scholarships to qualified students.

Mount Union’s esports program, much like its academics, will be grounded in the liberal arts tradition and focus on the holistic development of its students. Students on the esports team will be required to hold membership in at least one other campus organization and also participate in sponsored community service activities. 

This rapidly-growing field has become a focal point for institutions and industries across the country, as Forbes projects esports could be worth nearly $1.65 billion in the next three years.

A search is currently underway for a director of esports and head coach of the team at Mount Union. Applications can be submitted at mountunion.edu/employment.

“Our goal is to be a competitive force in the realm of collegiate esports,” said Ron Holden, assistant dean of students and director of diversity and inclusion at Mount Union. “Players will enhance skills utilized and developed in gaming such as teamwork, communication, problem-solving and leadership. These skills are directly transferrable to the careers of tomorrow. It’s very exciting that Mount Union is not only embracing this aspect of today’s culture, but we are also providing scholarship opportunities to support earning a college degree.”

Games and scholarship criteria will be announced at a later date. More information can be found at mountunion.edu/esports.