Rowan University to launch esports program with N3rd Street Gamers

Rowan University has partnered with Philadelphia-based amateur esports network N3rd Street Gamers to develop a collegiate esports and academic program.

The partnership will see N3rd Street Gamers invest over $1 million (£801,939) to build a 7,500 square foot facility dedicated to gaming on Rowan Boulevard in Glassboro, New Jersey.

Ali A. Houshmand, President of Rowan University had this to say regarding the partnership: “Esports has evolved well beyond playing games. The most important aspect for Rowan is its academic component. It will offer our students hands-on training via internships and knowledge in a variety of fields that will prepare them to become leaders in technology, engineering, business, computer programming and even broadcasting as it applies to this emerging industry.”

Rowan University will work with N3rd Street Gamers to develop classes that relate to the esports industry and create esports teams on varsity and club levels. On September 11th, the Board of Trustees at the university voted to allocate $230,000 (£184,399) towards purchasing memberships to  N3rd Street Gamers’ network.

John Fazio, CEO of N3rd Street Gamers expressed his excitement regarding the partnership: “Gaming is no longer just a form of entertainment. There are legitimate careers to pursue within this industry, but the paths aren’t always clear. This premier esports facility will give Rowan University students and the surrounding community the opportunity to learn both technical and professional skills that will benefit them for the rest of their lives.”

Esports Insider says: N3rd Street Gamers has been making moves in 2019 and seeing it continue to support esports at the grassroots and collegiate levels is great. We’re still not fully sold in esports programs and their legitimacy in helping people pursue careers in the industry but we’re intrigued to see how things develop in the coming years.

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