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The University of Arkansas at Monticello is set to offer an esports track in the Bachelor of Science in health and physical education degree beginning in the spring semester of 2025.

The Bachelor of Science in health and physical education degree is a 120-credit-hour program of study that has historically provided a broad knowledge of the discipline. The new esports track, comprised of 30 credit hours, will be one of three track options offered within the degree, alongside the coaching track and sports administration track.

The esports track will include three newly developed courses, in addition to seven existing ones, covering topics such as economics, entrepreneurship, esports, financial accounting, leadership, management, marketing and sports management, along with an internship in esports. This track aims to equip students with a solid foundation in both the business and coaching aspects of esports.

Dr. Kim Level, dean of the School of Education at UAM, expressed enthusiasm about the new track, stating, “We are thrilled to introduce the new esports track within our Bachelor of Science in health and physical education degree program. Given the rapid growth of the esports industry, we believe this will be a significant draw for prospective students. The UAM Esports team successfully recruited numerous players, and it’s essential that we provide an avenue for students at UAM who are interested in pursuing esports as a career to enhance their marketability in the workforce. We are committed to being innovative to attract students, and this new track represents an exciting opportunity for UAM students that we hope will be well received.”

Founded in 2023, UAM Esports has seen significant growth in the fall semester, tripling its roster and winning its first championship title in its National Association of Collegiate Esports (NACE) division. Bryan Fendley, director of UAM Esports, noted, “Last year, we started with just six students, and now we have 19. We're especially excited to have recruited our first female players. We've also drawn interest from semi-pro players, including some from abroad. Adding a degree path focused on esports will only accelerate this growth. It will equip students with the skills they need to succeed in this rapidly growing industry. It's a win-win for both our competitive program and the students looking to build a career in esports.”

In only its second season, the Rocket League team won a divisional championship title for the first time in school history. In its first semester, the Overwatch team reached the playoffs. The League of Legends team debuted in the NCAA DII Great American Conference, earning a playoff spot. The Super Smash Bros. Ultimate team finished fifth in its division, narrowly missing a top-four playoff position.

UAM Esports Head Coach Devin Burton also shared his optimism, stating, “This is only our second year, and we’re already very competitive. We’ve added three new teams, and they’re winning games. I think we’re going to get more recruits and build a stronger team going forward, hopefully doubling what we have. We’re proud of the dedication and perseverance each player has shown, and we're excited for the future of UAM Esports.”

Follow the Weevil Esports page on Facebook for updates on the team and links to its livestreamed matches.

For more information about the new esports track in the Bachelor of Science in health and physical education degree, contact Dr. Kim Level at level@uamont.edu or 870-460-1062.

For more information on UAM Esports, contact Devin Burton at burtond@uamont.edu or 870-460-1663.