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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

Founded in 1829, Illinois College is a residential liberal arts college fostering academic excellence rooted in opportunities for experiential learning while preparing students for lifelong success. The college is located in Jacksonville, Illinois. With an enrollment of more than 1,000 students, the college offers over 50 undergraduate programs. In 1932, the society of Phi Beta Kappa established a chapter at Illinois College, and it remains one of only 11 in the state.

Illinois College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association.

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