British Esports and Pearson Unveil Higher Nationals in Esports

Adam McGowan

6 min read | 27 Nov 2023

British Esports in collaboration with Pearson, proudly introduce the Higher Nationals in Esports. These include the Level 4 Higher National Certificate (HNC) and Level 5 Higher National Diploma (HND). This ground breaking development offers college students a dynamic pathway to further their education and career prospects in the esports industry.

Launching in 2024, the Level 4 HNC and Level 5 HND are set to complement British Esports and Pearson’s existing BTEC in Esports offerings, which include the Level 2 Skills in Esports BTEC for Key Stage 4 learners and the Level 3 National in Esports for learners aged 16 and above.

A Clear Progression Path

The HNC and HND qualifications represent an equivalent to the first and second years of an undergraduate degree, respectively providing a seamless progression path for esports students eager to transition to the next level of their education journey.

They complement the existing range of esports degrees from College of Esports, British Esports’ recommended progression route for students studying in the UK and internationally, who want to pursue a top-up qualification to obtain a Level 6 Degree. It offers students another pathway, flexibility, career prospects and affordability (Higher Nationals generally cost less than traditional degrees). Additionally, it offers a solution to students who may not have gained university entry requirements or aren’t able to travel to a particular university, by providing local opportunities through existing FE Colleges or through local University Providers.

Professor Philip Wilson, Executive Chair at the College of Esports; the world’s leading university-level institution dedicated to the business of esports and gaming stated “The progression by Pearson into level four and five builds on their successful delivery to date at BTEC Level. We are excited to see the building of a critical mass for the industry and wider digital sector that is the perfect avenue to the degree top-up that we provide on our degree courses for level six and ultimately level seven.”

Enhanced Work-Related Curriculum

The BTEC Higher National qualifications in Esports come with an enriched work-related curriculum designed to meet the rising demand for high-quality professional and technical education pathways at Levels 4 and 5. This curriculum is meticulously mapped to occupational standards, equipping students with the essential skills and competencies required in the workplace or for further higher education studies.

Industry Recognition

BTEC Higher National qualifications are widely acknowledged by industry and higher education authorities globally as the principal technical professional qualifications at Levels 4 and 5. Developed in collaboration with employers, students and professional bodies, these qualifications ensure real-world experience, providing students with comprehensive skills that will benefit their chosen career.  If you want to speak to someone from the Pearson team about what opportunities are available to you, please fill the form here.

“When we partnered with Pearson four years ago to launch the world’s first Esports BTECs, we did so with the intention of creating a workforce well-prepared for the challenges and changes this fast-moving industry has seen. Today, we’re proud to launch the Higher Nationals in Esports to continue to strengthen the workforce of the future, and give students greater options and accessibility when pursuing a career in esports or elsewhere.” said Kalam Neale, Head of Education at British Esports

Esports Career Opportunities

As the esports industry continues to expand, the demand for skilled professionals is higher than ever. These qualifications aim to bridge the gap between traditional education and the specific needs of the esports sector. With a focus on practical skills and real-world experience, these qualifications empower students to step confidently into a career in esports.

Higher Nationals Pearson Webinar

To provide detailed insights into these new qualifications, British Esports Head of Education, Kalam Neale, hosts a special webinar in collaboration with Pearson titled ‘What’s New – Higher Nationals in Esports’. This webinar offers an invaluable opportunity for students, educators and industry professionals to understand the significance of these qualifications, how to get started, the support and resources available and the enhanced possibilities they bring to the esports education landscape.

British Esports initially partnered with Pearson in 2020 to launch the world’s first Esports BTECs. With the addition of the Higher Nationals, they continue to fortify the workforce of the future, providing students with increased options and accessibility as they pursue a rewarding career in esports and beyond.

Click here to watch the webinar.