Want To Get A Job In Golf? Here’s How
Interested in working in the golf industry but don’t know where to start? Can you simply apply for a job at your local course? Do you need a degree? Years ago, if you wanted to work in the golf industry, you simply started working at a golf course. Now, training or attending a university that has a Professional Golf Management (PGM) program gives the best opportunity. Let’s take a deeper look at what you need to do to get a job in golf.
Job In Golf: Schooling
Graduating from a university with a PGM degree is one of the best ways to get a job in the golf industry. The 4.5 to 5-year program offers courses covering a wide range of subjects related to the golf industry. Gaining a wide range of knowledge helps narrow the focus to a specific position in the industry. While completing the PGM program, students can also earn other degrees. Marketing, Hospitality, or Business Administration are a few examples.
PGM degrees also require 16 months of internships to complete during the program. Students complete internships during the summer months while not attending classes. Generally speaking, it’s wise to vary the type of internship, getting a feel for various jobs. There are currently 19 universities with PGM programs at their location that are accredited by the PGA of America. You can get the full list of the schools here.
PAT
Passing the PAT, or playing ability test, is also a requirement to graduate with a PGM degree. For the test, you play an approved course and shoot at or below a certain score on 36 holes to pass. The score threshold changes depending on the course where the testing is done. To find the score, take the course rating, multiply it by 2 and add 15. For example, if the course has a rating of 70, the tester must shoot 155 or lower on 36 holes.
Other Options For Getting A Job In Golf
Another option would be to purchase all of the materials necessary to pass the PGM Program and self-study. A downside of doing it on your own is the lack of assistance finding internships and preparation for passing the courses. Also, many employers are looking to hire PGM graduates. Employers tend to believe these graduates are the most qualified for a position at their facility. The materials and information you need to self-study can be located here.
Our last tip to successfully find a job in golf is to seek the advice of a few PGA Professionals. Asking them to pass along any important information about a job field you are interested in helps your decision.
At the end of the day, the best advice is to do as much research as possible.
More Tips From Our Pros
Emmett Brantly
Emmett Brantly has been a Class “A” member of the PGA of America since 2003. He graduated from Campbell University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Professional Golf Management. He has worked in Public, Semi-Private, Private, and Resort golf facilities in Raleigh and Pinehurst North Carolina. He has also worked in various retail settings, as well as holding positions of PGA Teaching Professional at various academies including the Pinehurst Golf Academy. Emmett has a strong passion for growing the game of golf by displaying his extensive knowledge in club-fitting, teaching, fitness, and product knowledge.