Qualifying as a PGA professional opens the door to several potential careers in the golf industry.
The modern PGA pro is well educated and trained (newly qualified professionals have all completed a three year Foundation Degree in Golf Studies or BA Hons in Applied Golf Management Studies) while a Continuous Professional Development (CPD) programme ensures members follow a lifetime of learning in the golf industry.
Golf is now very much a profession with a recognised career structure producing bright and polished assistants who are not only adept in their knowledge of how to play and teach the game but also with the requisite skills to know the difference between in the bunker and in the red.
For some a career in golf will revolve around the traditional club pro role, others concentrate on coaching while some opt for golf club management, refereeing or administration.
Other avenues include golf marketing, manufacturing, equipment, technology and the media, still others, like Paul Lawrie and Ian Poulter, pursue full time playing opportunities.
Whatever the choice it can make for a rewarding and satisfying career.
Club/Head Professional
The modern PGA club professional is at the heart of any golf club. Responsibilities and duties will vary according to the size of club but typically the role will include giving lessons, club repairs and custom fitting, organising and coaching juniors, stocking and running a successful club shop, handling the day to day affairs of a golf club, marketing the club to attract new members and retain existing ones, organisation of competitions, corporate days and pro-ams and liaising with greenkeeping staff in the upkeep, maintenance and development of the course.
Teaching Professional
Many PGA professionals specialise in teaching and coaching and are employed solely on that basis. Developing good coaches is a key part of PGA training with many of its members going on to become respected coaches at the very highest level and working with some of the world's best players. European Tour coaches Denis Pugh, David Leadbetter and Peter Cowen are all members of the PGA.
Director of Golf
As experts in golf, senior PGA professionals are ideally placed to occupy senior managerial roles such as director of golf positions at bigger golf resorts and centres. The director of golf will oversee all aspects of the entire operation including golf operations, golf course maintenance, club house administration, food and beverage operation and other recreational activities at the facility.
Custom-fit Technician
PGA professionals have extensive training in equipment and technology and many are employed by industry giants such as PING, TaylorMade, Callaway and Titleist in their custom fitting centres.
Clubmaker and Repairer
PGA professionals still learn the art of making and repairing clubs so when the head of your favourite seven iron flies off, rest assured your PGA pro can fix it.
National Coach
Many PGA professionals with real skill and flair for coaching play key roles in developing the best young amateur players and implement coaching programmes at county and national level
Retailer
Many PGA professionals use their expertise in golf to develop the retail side of clubs and ranges.
Club Secretary/General Manager
As experts in golf but equipped with marketing and business skills, more and more PGA professionals are now responsible for administering all aspects of the golf club above and beyond the traditional club pro duties.
To find out more about how to become a PGA professional including entry requirements follow the links Applied Golf Management Studies and Foundation Degree