Options for a Golf Career Start with the Right Education

If you love golf you know that it is truly a passion, not just a hobby and definitely not just a thing to do on the weekends. Turning your passion for the sport into a golf career is something that most people think about but few actually do. However, regardless of what type of job you want in the golf industry, having a strong and industry specific educational background is only going to help you achieve your career goals.

There are some universities that offer degrees related specifically to golf. It is important to carefully research the academic program you are considering since there are, as with any type of education, differences in the degrees offered. The first consideration when choosing an academic program to support your golf career is the status of the college or university. It is essential to take your classes from an accredited campus and program. You will also want to consider the type of degree you will obtain when you graduate from the program. Some colleges offer an Associate Degree in Science, which can then be used to move into advanced education in business or other fields as you move through your career.

As with most Associate degrees, students can expect to be in the program for just over a year, typically around sixteen months. There may be options to then transfer to another program for a Bachelor's degree, which will take additional time to complete. Along with accreditation you may want to research the transfer of credits if you wish a full Bachelor degree. A few programs do offer a recognized credit transfer, making it much easier for you.

What many potential students may not realize is that getting started in a golf career doesn't necessarily mean having the ability to golf at a pro level. Of course some students may go on to play at championship tour levels, but most will not. Careers within the golf industry range from managing a golf and country club through to development of golf equipment, managing golf retail stores or acting as a representative for golf companies in marketing to a variety of retailers, golf club pro shops or even at sports fairs and golfing events. In addition, working directly in teaching or developing specific programs for new golfers, children or golfing workshops is also a consideration for those with an interest in working directly with the public.

Marketing as a golf career that combines networking, business management skills and the ability to communicate is a very important aspect of the industry. With golf becoming more and more common on major networks, such as ESPN and other sports news channels, marketing to the public as well as the media has really come into its own. Since general marketing professionals don't have the background to effectively talk about and sell golf and golf related products this is an excellent career path that is sure to continue to grow. Other careers may include working directly in management of a local golf course, a great way to build skills in a variety of aspects of the profession.

Getting started in your golf career through a recognized degree program will save you the time of having to work your way up through the levels of different employment in the golf industry. It will also ensure that you are more than qualified for entry to senior level management positions, ready to walk in on day one with a firm grasp of both the details and the big picture of the golfing industry today.