Level 1 Diploma: Pathway to Esports
Our Level 1 Diploma is an inspiring first step into the world of Esports.
Course Summary
Course Information for Students
Who is this course for?
Do you enjoy gaming?
This programme provides opportunities for you to gain a vocationally specific qualification to help you develop skills required for the Esports industry. It also paves the way to other vocational qualifications in further education.
You will participate in a variety of Esports based projects which are both practical and theoretical. Developing an individual style and approach is encouraged.
Entry Requirements
You will need a profile of three grade 2s at GCSE or the equivalent. A creative or digital GCSE would be beneficial.
You will attend an interview. Experience and an interest in Esports would be essential.
What will you learn?
There are a range of units covered over the year which aim to develop skills in:
- practical techniques, materials and processes
- research and idea generation
- reflections and evaluations
As part of your study programme, you will be studying Maths and English at GCSE level. Alongside this, you will also be participating in work experience opportunities.
How will you learn?
This course will be delivered on-site.
What will you need to bring with you?
There will be money required for trips: support can be provided with meeting these costs through our Student Financial Support Fund (subject to eligibility).
How will you be assessed?
Units are assessed through coursework and project work. This could include working with others and employability skills such as presenting your work to others.
Where next?
Further Study
There is a variety of progression routes from the Level 1 programme. These would typically be Level 2 programmes within the Creative/Digital Faculty such as: Art and Design, Creative and Digital Media, Esports, Fashion Business, Music, Games Development, and Performing Arts.
Careers
The further study of Esports could lead to a range of careers in a variety of industries, including branding, marketing, video production and events management.
Who do you contact for more information?
For more information, contact Derby College Group on 0800 0280289 or enquiries@derby-college.ac.uk
Course Information for Employers
Information for Employers
Career Information
DCG Success Stories
Discover how our students have achieved success. Their hard work and dedication to learning has enabled them to succeed in rewarding careers or progress onto higher education.
We encourage progress and aspirational outcomes by guiding people onto learning pathways that lead to positive destinations. Our students have gone on to achieve great things since leaving the College. We would like to share some of their inspiring success stories with you.
Find out what funding could be available to you:
Thinking about returning to education or developing new skills? Use our funding calculator below to get an estimate of the financial support you may be eligible for based on where you live.
Whether you’re looking to retrain, progress in your career, or try something new, funding could make your next step more accessible than you think.
Simply enter your postcode into the calculator to see an estimate of the funding that may be available in your area. This is based on regional funding allocations and typical eligibility criteria for adult learners.
Important:
The results shown are a guide only and are not a guarantee of funding.
Funding availability can vary depending on:
- Your personal circumstances (such as age, employment status, and prior qualifications)
- The course you choose
- Government and local funding rules at the time of enrolment
If you’re considering adult learning, there’s never been a better time to explore your options.
Our courses are designed to fit around your life, with flexible study options and expert support every step of the way.
Find out more about the courses available. Adult Courses
If you have any questions about funding, eligibility, or courses, our team is here to help. Contact Us
Applications for 2026 Full-Time School Leaver Courses are now CLOSED FOR PROCESSING*
If you’ve already applied for a full-time vocational or academic course, please check your InTouch account to view your application status and accept any outstanding offers. We may also be trying to contact you by phone, so keep an ear out for calls from the College — to ensure we are progressing your first-choice course area.
Haven’t applied yet?
Your next opportunity will be during our Open Enrolment sessions, starting Wednesday 26th August at 12pm. Please note that places will be limited and subject to course availability, entry requirements, and interviews. Find out more about Enrolment and Clearing Enrolment: Enrolment and Clearing Information 2026
Course Information Last Updated On: February 12, 2026 10:22 am
