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University of Suffolk bets on booming esports industry with £1.65m facility

As the global esports market continues to expand, the University of Suffolk is staking its claim with a £1.65 million purpose-built gaming facility to support its new degree programme.

Oliver Rouane-Williams

Oliver Rouane-Williams

— 2 min read
Renders of the interior of the new eSports facility atthe University of Suffolk
Renders of the interior of the new eSports facility atthe University of Suffolk

Why it matters: The £1.65 million renovation of a vacant Long Street building demonstrates a significant commitment to the growing esports industry, preparing students with industry-standard facilities ahead of the new BA (Hons) Esports course launching this September.

Renders of the interior of the new eSports facility atthe University of Suffolk
Renders of the interior of the new eSports facility atthe University of Suffolk (Concertus)
Renders of the interior of the new eSports facility atthe University of Suffolk
Renders of the interior of the new eSports facility atthe University of Suffolk (Concertus)
Renders of the interior of the new eSports facility atthe University of Suffolk
Renders of the interior of the new eSports facility atthe University of Suffolk (Concertus)

The details: The state-of-the-art facility will feature:

  • More than 40 gaming-spec PCs
  • A professional-grade broadcast gallery
  • A purpose-built live studio for broadcasting and livestreaming
  • Combined teaching and recreational spaces

What they're saying: "We've already had lots of interest in our brand new Esports course launching this September, and the £1.65 million facility will be a real draw for students to join our programme," said Charlie Smith, Course Leader for BA (Hons) Esports.

Beyond gaming: The new course aims to equip students with broader business and technical skills, including:

  • Managing live-streamed events
  • Live and online broadcasting experience
  • Digital marketing skills
  • Creative digital media attributes
  • Leadership and team dynamic capabilities

"These skills are really important for thriving in such a fast-paced and evolving industry, and by equipping our students with as broad a range of strengths as possible, our course will give students the best experience possible of thriving in the industry," Smith added.

This premises on Long Street will become an eSports facility
This premises on Long Street will become an eSports facility (University of Suffolk)

Coming soon: Work on the facility is being carried out by Concertus and is scheduled for completion in September, coinciding with the arrival of the first cohort of students.

The bigger picture: Students will have opportunities to:

  • Compete in national and global tournaments
  • Participate in online showpiece matches and charity events
  • Manage their own esports team, which will be unveiled later this year

The bottom line: As the esports industry continues to grow globally, the University of Suffolk is making a substantial investment to establish Ipswich as a training ground for future gaming professionals.

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