U of M Receives $4 Million From Activision For Esports Minor

Imagine being able to play video games and then getting a diploma for being great at them. That fantasy life 8 year old me only dreamt of may soon become a reality at the University of Michigan, as Activision Blizzard has given them $4 million dollars to go towards a program that will allow student to get a minor degree in Esports. Esports by definition, is a form of competition using video games. Esports often consist of organized, multiplayer video game competitions, particularly between professional players, individually or as teams.

Set to kick off in 2022, Activision Blizzard CEO Robert Kotick, a student of U of M in the 1980's expressed his excitement for the growth of this opportunity at U of M:

Esports is poised for explosive growth, and I am thrilled to join the University of Michigan to develop a program that will cultivate the talent to meet the needs of this complex and evolving industry. Unlike traditional sports, esports is truly a participant sport that anyone can play and enjoy. Most of the people watching are also playing -- this leads to greater enthusiasm, engagement and truly unlimited potential.

How Much Money Do Esports Bring In?

Activision Blizzard is best known for their massively successful Call of Duty & World of Warcraft games, and this investment is primed for success. If you think this may be a waste of money or a silly investment, you may want to re-think that idea. Local 4 reports that according to the Newzoo Global Esports and Live Streaming Market Report, the esports industry is expected to exceed $1 billion in 2021. Game on.