Morristown, N.J. (May 20, 2021) – Saint Elizabeth University (SEU) is launching a comprehensive esports program that includes a newly constructed state-of-the-art gaming facility, varsity and recreational teams, as well as additions to the University's curriculum that focus on the growing field of gaming.

The program begins in fall 2021 with the opening of the esports arena that will enable all students to gather in a supercharged gaming environment. The University also is offering a newly created Bachelor of Science in Computer Software Engineering with a Concentration in Game Development and Design, and competition with its first varsity esports team in fall 2022.

"We're entering a new era and embracing different ways to promote student engagement, support inclusivity, and help students succeed," said Katherine M. Buck, SEU's vice president for student life. "We are excited about the commitment we've made to esports and hope that our new program will engage all students across our campus, build a highly competitive team in the esports industry, and attract students to our institution."

According to Jake Zinn, co-founder of esports Supply, an Overland Park, KS-based company that helps universities build esports communities, competitions and content and is working with Saint Elizabeth University to design their program, esports is forecast to be a $9 billion segment within the $200 billion gaming industry by 2025.

"Esports is one of the most popular activities students are engaging with on campuses today, with some 350 colleges and universities across the country having taken the plunge into competitive esports," Zinn added.

The University is currently working with students to determine games and plans to hire a varsity coach. The newly constructed arena also includes space for students who enjoy watching and/or playing recreationally with the idea of creating a campus "hub".

"We are excited about the commitment we've made to esports and hope that our new program will engage all students across our campus, build a highly competitive team in the esports industry, and attract students to our institution," Buck said.