Esports Programme

Overview

This programme integrates academic insights with industry-specific content, focusing on key themes such as decision making in esports, revenue generation opportunities, operations of esport events, marketing strategies and legal considerations. We will examine the meteoric rise of esports, exploring its ecosystem, business models, and synergies with traditional sports. From understanding revenue streams to engaging audiences, participants will navigate the fast-paced world of competitive gaming.

To be announced

Date

On-site

Format

CHF 2,100.-

Price

English

Language

HOW YOU WILL BENEFIT

• Develop an enhanced understanding of this growing phenomenon: Participants will gain a deep understanding of the governance, legal, operational, and marketing aspects specific to esports and egaming. This comprehensive knowledge base will empower them to make informed decisions and navigate the complexities of the esports industry confidently. 
• Leverage the acquired knowledge for professional development: The program provides participants with valuable skills and insights that are directly applicable to their roles within the sports industry. Whether they are athletes, coaches, administrators, or executives, the knowledge acquired through the program will enhance their professional capabilities and make them more competitive in the evolving landscape of sports and entertainment. 
• Grow your opportunities: By gaining expertise in esports, participants open themselves up to a multitude of new opportunities within the sports industry. esports is experiencing exponential growth, and professionals with specialized knowledge in this area are in high demand. Graduates of the program will be well-positioned to pursue career opportunities in esports organizations, sports management firms, marketing agencies, and other related fields. 
• Networking possibilities: Throughout the programme, participants will have the chance to engage with industry professionals, academic experts, and fellow participants. This networking environment facilitates the exchange of ideas, collaboration on projects, and the establishment of valuable connections within the esports community. These connections can lead to mentorship opportunities, job referrals, and collaborations on future projects. 
• Adaptability and Future-Proofing: By acquiring knowledge in the rapidly growing field of esports, participants future-proof their careers and demonstrate their ability to adapt to changing industry trends. As esports continues to gain mainstream acceptance and integration with traditional sports, professionals with expertise in this area will be highly sought after, ensuring long-term relevance and career sustainability. 

Key learning and objectives

1. Understanding and organising esports
2. Embracing the esports phenomenon through a multidisciplinary approach 
3. Developing opportunities for event owners and organisers in terms of marketing and monetisation  
4. Addressing the latest trends in sports evolution and its dissemination within the younger generations

Participant Profile

• Sports executives and managers exploring esports opportunities
• Entrepreneurs in gaming and tech sectors
• Marketing and media professionals targeting esports demographics
• Sponsors and investors interested in esports

Course Leader

Nicolas Besombes

Nicolas Besombes is an Associate Professor in sociology of sport at the Sports Department of the Université Paris Cité. For the past ten years, his research has focused on esports. Among the various themes he addresses and questions, the sporting dimension and the sustainability of esports remains the main focus of his work: institutionalization by the traditional sports governing bodies, physicality and motor skills, education programs, performance optimization, diversity and inclusion issues, and Olympic and esports strategies. He is the author of more than twenty scientific articles and more than one hundred communications in France and around the world.

Additionally, Nicolas Besombes is the founding member of the French Speaking Association for Esports Research and Studies (AREFE) and holds a position as a board member of the Esports Research Network (ERN). These organizations are the two main academic networks dedicated to structuring esports research in the French-speaking world and internationally. Furthermore, he leads as the Head of the first University Diploma in France dedicated to esports performance (DIU Esports Manager).

Alongside these roles, Nicolas Besombes contributed as a board member of the France Esports association from 2017 to 2022. Moreover, he has been advising public authorities (ministries and local authorities), as well as the sports and Olympic movements (professional and amateur clubs, national and international federations, national and regional Olympic committees) for several years in their acculturation to the esports phenomenon.

• LinkedIn

Fees

The course fee for the 2026 esports programme is CHF 1’500.-

Special conditions:

• AISTS Alumni benefit from a 25% discount: Save CHF 375!

If you would like to register, or are unsure about the above eligibility, please contact us at admissions@aists.org.