Golf course management programs can be found at community colleges, technical schools, golf academies and 4-year colleges and universities. Students may want to seek schools with qualified PGA (Professional Golfers Association) staff in order to learn from highly trained instructors.
10 Golf Course Management Schools
The following list includes a number of public and private schools that offer undergraduate and graduate degrees in golf course management.
| College/University | Location | Institution Type | Degrees Offered | Undergraduate Tuition & Fees (2018-2019)* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Golf Academy of America Technology | Carlsbad, CA | 2-year, Private, for-profit | Associate's | N/A |
| Campbell University | Buies Creek, NC | 4-year, Private | Bachelor's | $32,500 |
| Eastern Kentucky University | Richmond, KY | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's | $9,666 in-state; $19,444 out-of-state |
| Florida Gulf Coast University | Fort Myers, FL | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's | $6,118 in-state; $25,162 out-of-state |
| Penn State University | University Park, PA | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's | $18,454 in-state; $34,858 out-of-state |
| Professional Golfers Career College | Temecula, CA | 2-year, Private, for-profit | Associate's | $18,512 |
| Sam Houston State University | Huntsville, TX | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's | $8,296 in-state; $18,256 out-of-state |
| University of Colorado - Colorado Springs | Colorado Springs, CO | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's | $12,532 in-state; $37,286 out-of-state |
| University of Idaho | Moscow, ID | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's | $7,864 in-state; $25,500 out-of-state |
| University of Maryland - Eastern Shore | Princess Anne, MD | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's | $8,302 in-state; $18,508 out-of-state |
Sources: *National Center for Education Statistics (NCES); School websites
School Selection Criteria
- Prospective students may want to consider programs that offer coursework in business operations and management, plant science and turf maintenance.
- Students may want to take into consideration a program's faculty and facilities; schools that are located near golf courses may provide students with hands-on practical experiences, as well as advanced employment opportunities.
- Individuals may want to look for schools that offer summer internships in order to gain hands-on experience while enriching their education.
- Online golf course management programs may be available for students with scheduling demands.
Certificate in Golf Course Management
Certificate programs are employment preparation programs that provide students with basic knowledge in golf education, course maintenance and golf operations and rules. Programs combined with turf management may also include coursework in horticulture, small engine repair and equipment management. Prior to completion of the program, students may need to complete a capstone project.
Associate's Degree in Golf Course Management
Individuals in a golf management associate's degree program may pursue entry-level employment or choose to continue their study in the discipline toward a bachelor's degree. These programs explore topics such as golf operations, history of golf, club fitting and performance enhancement.
Bachelor's Degree in Golf Course Management
A bachelor's degree program in golf course management is for individuals who want to increase their potential advancement in the field. This program includes advanced coursework that focuses on business and management aspects in the industry.
There are several 2- and 4- year colleges and universities that offer golf course management programs where students can pursue undergraduate degrees. Students in these programs learn about topics specific to golf courses, such as horticulture and golf operations, as well as topics in business and management.