Is a Golf Degree Really Necessary?

Having the ability to obtain a golf degree isn’t something that has always been an option for those interested in pursuing a career in any aspect of the sport. Historically most individuals have started in some lower level or entry type of position on a golf course, driving range or in a sales position in the golf industry and then, over time, worked themselves into management positions. Typically this type of career results in very slow progress or advancement, often leaving the individual left to learn the ropes on his or her own.

With the development of accredited, recognized and highly reputable golf degree programs it is possible for students to simply by-pass all the lower level jobs in the industry and move into mid to upper level positions very quickly. The degree programs are comprehensive in their design, providing successful students with well beyond just basic golf knowledge. Since the graduates already have knowledge on the proven ways to make a golf course, operation or associated business highly profitable, demand for graduates is on the rise.

Students can, without spending years in obscure jobs within the profession, be recognized by potential employers and golf operations managers as very successful candidates with Associate or Bachelor level degree completion. Some students may even find that they are able to find work in their area of interest in the golf profession prior to graduation, allowing them to gain both experience and knowledge at the same time. Instructors that have played, managed, designed courses and are working within the industry can also be mentors and supporters in helping you narrow your focus in the specific job you are interested in within the field.

Golf degree programs are carefully designed to include more than just a limited and highly focused academic look at the sport of golf. Students will be required to complete courses in all aspects of playing the game as well as managing any type of golf facility. This combination of practical and real world skills as well as theory and knowledge is highly versatile, giving graduates a wide range of career options within the field. Since most areas of expertise within any professional field overlap, this comprehensive type of knowledge base really adds to the ability to work in any career area in the sport.

While not all students that obtain this degree will work directly in golf instruction or as competitive players, the degree programs do have a strong emphasis on the game itself. This means that students will actually get to learn the fundamentals of the sport, right from the short game through to how to best instruct others on skill development. Students therefore need to have some level of golfing ability prior to starting any type of degree program, but they don't need to have a specific handicap or playing level. Throughout the courses students will have the ability to work with current and former golf pros in improving their overall golfing skills. Even if the career that you choose within the profession doesn't require playing or instructing, you will definitely improve your game and confidence on the course through this training.

A golf degree will also provide you with basic management training as well. Again, as with the golf training, you will find this training is critical in helping you to advance in your career regardless of your specific job description. Communication and management courses will also help determine if a career in golf operations or a related sales, management or consulting in the sport is the right choice for you.