Essential Information
In addition to all aspects of golf management and operations, bachelor's degree programs examine basic business principles to better prepare students for their careers. To gain real-world experience, students are required to complete 16 months of internship experiences in three different settings, such as course operations, tournament management or marketing. PGA-sanctioned programs provide extensive classroom instruction and internship opportunities.
Admission calls for a 12 handicap or better and a high school diploma or its equivalent. Handicap must be verified by a member of the PGA, a high school golf coach or a current United States Golf Association (USGA) handicap card. Prior to graduation, students must also pass the PGA's playing ability test. Upon completion of an accredited program, individuals are eligible to obtain PGA membership status.
Bachelor's in Golf Management
The Professional Golfer's Association of America (PGA) accredits approximately 20 golf management programs at colleges and universities throughout the country. In addition to the core curriculum specific to golf management, program coursework includes general education courses, such as English, math, public speaking and natural sciences. Common golf management topics include:
- Turf grass management
- Marketing and merchandising
- Golf course management
- Food and beverage management
- Player development
- Tournament operations
Popular Careers
Traditional career opportunities for those with a bachelor's degree in golf management include:
- Teaching professional
- Golf director
- Assistant golf professional
- Tournament director
- Golf course developer
- Golf course superintendent
Employment Outlook and Salary
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that recreation and amusement attendants (which included golf workers) earned a mean annual salary of $23,460 in 2018. Higher-level golf management jobs fell under the category of general and operations management, and these professionals made a mean annual wage of $123,880 in 2018, reported the BLS.
Golf management programs at the bachelor's degree level train students in turf grass management, golf tournament operations and golf marketing and management as well as in general education courses. Graduates are prepared for roles in the industry as golf tournament directors, golf course superintendents and teaching professionals.