How to Pick the Best Golf School for Your Career
" "As a high school golfer with aspirations in the golf industry, you might be considering college options that lay the foundation for a fulfilling career in golf. Many young golfers mistakenly believe that becoming a professional golfer is the only path into the industry. However, the reality is that the golf industry, which is valued at over 70 billion dollars annually, supports over 2 million jobs. This article will guide you through three different college degree programs that can kickstart your golf career, along with the top colleges that offer these programs.
" "Hospitality Management
" "Golf is a service-oriented industry, and many students interested in running a golf facility might initially focus on careers like managing high-end resorts. However, pursuing a degree in hospitality management with an eye on becoming the General Manager of a golf facility opens up numerous lucrative and rewarding career paths. The Club Management Association of America (CMAA) supports such endeavors with its student chapters at several colleges. Attending one of these institutions and majoring in hospitality management is a strong step towards a career in golf management.
" "Turfgrass Management
" "Have you ever wondered who keeps Augusta National Golf Club so green each year and ensures the azaleas are vibrant in April? The answer lies in turfgrass management careers. There are around 15,000 golf courses in the United States, each with a dedicated team of greenskeepers. For high school students interested in working at a golf course, this is an excellent career path. With over 139 universities offering turfgrass management programs, there are ample opportunities to specialize in keeping golf courses in top condition. The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) supports these professions, providing resources and guidance for students and professionals alike.
" "Sports Management
" "For those with a keen interest in how golf functions as a business, a degree in sports management can be exceptionally beneficial. Sports managers handle all aspects of team operations, including scheduling, budgeting, marketing, and fan engagement. Graduates from colleges that offer sports management programs can work in professional golf organizations, tournaments, or even for professional golfers. Studying sports management equips you with valuable skills to navigate the business side of golf.
" "Top Colleges to Consider
" "Here are some of the top colleges that excel in these respective areas:
" " " "Hospitality Management: Radford University, Cornell University, University of Arizona " "Turfgrass Management: University of Georgia, New Mexico State University, University of California, Davis " "Sports Management: University of Florida, Arizona State University, Georgia State University " " " "Each of these institutions has strong programs that can help you build a successful career in the golf industry. They offer internships, networking opportunities, and practical experience that are crucial for entering the professional world.
" "Conclusion
" "Selecting the right golf school is the first step in your golf career. Whether you're interested in the business side, maintaining green spaces, or managing a golf club, there are numerous paths to explore. By choosing a program that aligns with your goals, you can set yourself up for a rewarding career in the diverse and vibrant golf industry.