Jackson Reid
There are two main paths to becoming a golf pro: the PGA Associate Program and the PGA Golf Management University Program. The PGA Associate Program is a flexible, award-winning Professional Golf Management (PGM) curriculum that requires you to work at a golf course. The University Program combines a degree with the PGM curriculum and takes 4.5 to 5 years to complete. Both paths require you to pass a background check, complete five qualifying courses, and pass the PAT (Player Ability Test). Aspiring golf pros must also work in a golf-related field for at least six months and choose a career path: Golf Operations, Executive Management, or Teaching & Coaching. While becoming a golf pro requires hard work and dedication, it's an exciting career path with numerous opportunities for growth and advancement.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Education | There are two options: the PGA Associate Program or the PGA Golf Management University Program. The former is a go-at-your-own-pace style curriculum that requires you to work at a golf course. The latter takes between 4.5 to 5 years to complete and combines internships with a degree program. |
| Background check | Candidates must complete and pay for a background check. Some convictions may require additional documentation and explanation to the PGA. |
| Work experience | Candidates must have at least six months of work experience in a golf-related field prior to seeking certification. Golf-related positions include golf assistants, golf media associates, and golf coaches. |
| Player Ability Test (PAT) | Candidates must pass the PAT, which involves completing two rounds of golf and achieving a minimum score. |
| PGA certification | Candidates must complete five qualifying courses and pass the qualifying test to obtain PGA certification. |
| Career paths | After completing Level 1, candidates choose between Golf Operations, Executive Management, and Teaching & Coaching. |
| Costs | At every level of pro golf, players are responsible for covering their costs. |
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What You'll Learn
Get a degree in a golf-related field
To become a golf pro, you must complete the requirements to become certified as a professional by the Professional Golfer's Association (PGA). Golf pros often manage golf courses and provide lessons to other golfers. To become certified by the PGA, you must work in a golf-related field for at least six months and pass qualifying courses and the Player Ability Test (PAT).
The PGA offers two routes to becoming a golf professional: the Associate Program and the University Program. The Associate Program is a flexible, self-paced curriculum that requires you to work at a golf course and pass a background check. The University Program combines a degree program with the PGM curriculum and internships. This option takes 4.5 to 5 years to complete and is ideal for those seeking a traditional college experience.
If you choose the University Program, you can obtain a bachelor's degree in a golf-related field, such as professional golf management. There are currently 16 schools in the US that offer a PGA Golf Management Program. The University of Birmingham in the UK also offers a foundation degree in Golf Studies (FdSc), which can be converted into a BSc (Hons) in Professional Golf Studies. The University of the Highlands and Islands offers a similar pathway with a Diploma in Higher Education Golf Studies (DipHE) that can lead to a BA in Professional Golf.
By obtaining a degree in a golf-related field, you can develop the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a career as a golf professional. These programs can provide you with internships, connections, and a strong foundation in the golf industry. After completing your degree, you can then pursue the PGA certification by fulfilling the work experience requirement and passing the necessary tests.
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Pass the Player Ability Test (PAT)
Aspiring golf professionals need to pass the Player Ability Test (PAT) to advance their careers. The PAT is a test of your playing ability, and less than 20% of those taking the test achieve a passing score. The test is conducted from the middle tees of the golf course, with flagsticks set on a generally flat area of the green.
To enter the PGA PGM Program, you must attempt the PAT at least once within eight years prior to registration. You must shoot an 18-hole score equal to or less than the PAT target score for 18 holes, plus 5 strokes. Each PAT score has a validity of eight years. If you enter the PGA PGM Program without passing the PAT, you must pass the 36-hole PAT before registering for Level 3 testing.
The PAT has rules and regulations that must be followed. Only players are allowed to ride, and only devices that measure distance are permitted; cellular phones are not allowed. Alcohol is prohibited during the test. Unprofessional behaviour or conduct unbecoming of a golf professional may result in a two-stroke penalty, and a second offence will lead to disqualification. In some cases, this may even result in suspension from participating in PATs for up to two years.
GOLFTEC offers assistance to aspiring PGA professionals who are actively pursuing PGA membership. They offer a free GOLFTEC Game Plan, which includes swing evaluation, 25 lessons, 12 months of practice, and a club fitting.
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Gain work experience
Gaining work experience is a crucial step in becoming a golf pro. While natural talent and a passion for the sport are important, practical experience in the golf industry is highly valued.
The PGA of America offers two pathways to gaining work experience: the PGA Associate Program and the PGA Golf Management University Program. The Associate Program is a flexible, self-paced curriculum that requires you to work at a golf course. You'll gain hands-on experience in golf operations, working alongside experienced professionals. This option allows you to immerse yourself in the day-to-day workings of a golf course, providing valuable insights into the various roles and responsibilities within the industry.
On the other hand, the University Program combines a degree with the PGM curriculum, offering a more traditional college experience. This option typically takes between 4.5 and 5 years to complete and includes 16 months of internships. The internships provide an opportunity to apply your knowledge in a real-world setting, gain industry connections, and build a network of contacts that can be invaluable for your future career.
During your work experience, you'll have the chance to explore different career paths within the golf industry, such as Golf Operations, Executive Management, or Teaching & Coaching. This practical exposure will enable you to make a more informed decision about your specialization.
In addition to these structured programs, gaining work experience in golf can also be pursued through other avenues. Playing in tournaments, Monday qualifiers, and mini tours can provide a platform to showcase your skills and build a reputation. While it may be expensive, investing in your development as a golfer and seeking out competitive opportunities can increase your chances of being noticed and supported by industry professionals.
Remember, becoming a golf pro is about more than just playing ability. Seek out diverse work experiences that will allow you to develop a well-rounded set of skills and a strong network of industry connections.
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Choose a career path
Choosing a career path in the golf industry can be both exciting and daunting. The term "golf pro" can refer to both professional golfers and those who work in the business side of golf, so it's important to understand the different paths you can take. Here are some options to consider:
Professional Golfer
Professional golfers are those who compete in high-profile tournaments such as the Masters and the PGA Tour. This path requires a strong golfing skill set and the ability to compete at an elite level. Most professional golfers start at a young age and gain experience through junior tournaments and amateur competitions. They may also have a strong involvement with their golf club, which can lead to certification as a golf professional. However, some professional golfers start as amateurs and rely on their talent to get noticed.
Golf Professional
Golf professionals are often certified by the PGA (Professional Golfer's Association) and work in various roles within the golf industry. They may teach other people how to play golf, manage golf courses, or work in golf-related fields such as golf assistants, golf media associates, or golf coaches. Becoming a golf professional typically involves completing a background check, gaining work experience in a golf-related field, and passing qualifying courses and the Player Ability Test (PAT).
Golf Management
This career path focuses on the business and management side of the golf industry. Individuals may pursue a degree in Professional Golf Management or a related field, or they may opt for an apprenticeship or internship program. This path can lead to roles in golf operations, executive management, or teaching and coaching. It offers the opportunity to work in various aspects of golf course management, including course maintenance, employee management, and financial operations.
Golf Coaching and Instruction
Golf coaches and instructors are responsible for teaching novice golfers and helping them improve their skills. They typically have expert-level knowledge of the game and are certified by the PGA. This career path often involves working at golf courses, golf academies, or private coaching businesses. Golf coaches may also specialize in specific areas, such as short-game instruction or mental coaching.
Golf Course Architecture and Design
This career path focuses on the design, construction, and maintenance of golf courses. It often requires a combination of expertise in golf, architecture, and landscaping. Individuals in this field may work on designing new golf courses, renovating existing ones, or consulting on course maintenance and sustainability practices. This path can involve collaboration with golf course superintendents, architects, and environmental specialists.
Remember, these career paths are not mutually exclusive, and it is possible to have a multifaceted career in the golf industry. The most important factors are your passion, dedication, and willingness to develop the skills needed to succeed in your chosen field.
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Get certified by the PGA
To become a golf pro certified by the PGA, there are several steps to take. Firstly, candidates must complete a background check and have worked in a golf-related field for at least six months. Golf-related positions include golf assistants, golf media associates, and golf coaches.
The next step is to complete the PGA Professional Golf Management (PGM) Program or the PGA Golf Management University Program. The PGM Program is a go-at-your-own-pace curriculum that requires you to work at a golf course. After passing a background check, you move on to the Qualifying Level, which is an introduction to being a PGA of America Golf Professional. This includes four Qualifying Level courses: Introduction to the PGA PGM Program, PGA Constitution, Introduction to the Rules of Golf, and Career Enhancement. As courses are reviewed, applicants complete accompanying quizzes.
The University Program combines a degree with the PGM curriculum and takes 4.5 to 5 years to complete, including 16 months of internships. Degrees can range from business to hospitality to turfgrass management.
After completing the Qualifying Level, PGM Program candidates will go through three levels of coursework and attend seminars at the Home of the PGA of America in Frisco, Texas. University Program candidates will complete their degree and internships.
The final step to becoming a PGA-certified golf pro is to pass the Player Ability Test (PAT). This involves completing two rounds of golf (36 holes) within 15 shots of the current course rating. The test is normally conducted in one day and fewer than 20% of those taking the test achieve a passing score.
Once certified, PGA golf professionals can constantly develop their skills by taking refresher courses. These courses can improve their ability to teach others and enhance their own game.
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Frequently asked questions
A golf pro is someone who has completed the requirements to become certified as a professional golfer by the Professional Golfer's Association (PGA). They teach other people how to play golf and manage golf courses.
Golf pros teach novice golfers how to improve their golfing abilities. They also manage golf courses, including maintaining holes, scheduling golfers, managing stores, and assisting golfers on the course.
To become a golf pro, you need to complete a background check and work in a golf-related field for at least six months. You then need to pass qualifying courses and the Player Ability Test (PAT). Alternatively, you can complete a bachelor's degree in a related field or an apprenticeship program.
First, complete the required qualifications and gain certification from the PGA. Then, decide on your career path: Golf Operations, Executive Management, or Teaching & Coaching. Network with other golf professionals and build your skills to advance your career.
Yes, there are costs involved in becoming a golf pro. You will need to pay for your background check, qualifying courses, and any tournaments or events you enter. However, once you start winning tournaments, your earnings will outweigh these costs.
