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The culture of sports: Illinois College esports

11.13.2018

The esports craze or fad is anything but — in fact esports has turned itself into a multibillion-dollar industry. While the NCAA hasn’t fully jumped on board as of today, some of its biggest institutions have.

Jonathan Yates | The College AD

Take Ohio State for example, which recently announced plans that it’s developing what it describes as a comprehensive, first-of-its-kind esports program.

Students can earn undergraduate and graduate degrees in fields of study offered across five colleges and might include esports management, game art, and production, game design, programming and more. While the Buckeyes may be one of the biggest names in college athletics today, Ohio State is simply following the lead of numerous other schools including Illinois College.

About two years ago, Illinois College, looking for ways to expand reach and grow enrollment, decided to enter the world of esports. Illinois College Athletic Director Mike Snyder recently sat down with the Jonathan Yates for the Culture of Sports. The two discuss Illinois College’s decision to take on esports and all that goes along with housing an esports program.

About Illinois College

Illinois College has believed in the power of opportunity for nearly 200 years. Today, more than 1,000 students come to our vibrant campus in Jacksonville, Illinois, to find their people, their passions, and their path forward. Whether exploring over 80 academic programs, competing in athletics, or interning worldwide, IC students live fully and Graduate READY to make a difference in the world. That’s why Phi Beta Kappa, the nation’s most prestigious academic honor society, chose Illinois College as one of only a few schools in the state. 

Visit www.ic.edu for more information.

Media Contact Information
Emily Titsworth '19, Writer
Office of Marketing and Communication
217.245.3219 | emily.titsworth@ic.edu