Computer and video game companies posted record revenues of $9.5 billion in 2007 and the industry grew by 17 percent from 2003-2006, four times the growth rate of the national economy. More than 200 colleges, universities and technical schools in the U.S., and 400 worldwide offer programs and courses in video game design.

The ESA Foundation’s Scholarship Program makes available $45,000 in scholarships for women and minority applicants pursuing careers in video game development. Full-time undergraduate students can apply online for a $3,000 scholarship until May 15, 2008.

“Positions in our industry are high-paying jobs with a remarkable potential to inspire and entertain millions of Americans. We hope these scholarships will encourage students to pursue careers in this growing and lucrative field,” said Michael Gallagher, president and CEO of the ESA, which represents U.S. computer and game publishers. “We offer this program to help create our industry’s next generation who will boost the industry’s creative capital with new and unique approaches.”

The program assists women and minority students who plan to continue their education in fields supporting video game development, including graphic design, computer science, animation or programming, digital entertainment or software engineering. Scholarships are offered each year for full-time study at accredited four-year colleges and universities. The ESA Foundation plans to award 15 scholarships of $3,000 each to students for the 2008-09 academic year.

Scholarship Management Services administers this program. For more information and to complete an application online please visit the official website.