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Step 1
Meet the prerequisites for registration in the PGA Professional Golf Management (PGM) Program. You must have a high school diploma or be at least 18 years old with a GED or other equivalent. You must have been employed full-time for at least six months in an eligible position during the prior year and currently employed in an eligible position. Many different paid golf facility or equipment positions can count as eligible employment, including club fitting and repair, general manager, golf manufacturer sales or management, and of course, golf instructor.
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Step 2
Pass the Playing Aptitude Test, or PAT. You must have passed the test within two years prior to applying to the program.
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Step 3
Enroll as a student in the PGA PGM Program at one of the 20 universities offering the degree. Each university has different eligibility and entrance requirements and course work. Upon completion of the 4.5- to 5-year program, you will graduate as a PGA member. Enrollees in the university program may skip the remainder of the steps.
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Step 4
Become a PGA apprentice. Get a job under a qualified PGA professional, complete the apprentice registration form and pay all apprentice fees.
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Step 5
Complete the PGA PGM Program application and order the Level 1 Kit.
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Step 6
Complete 36 work credits as an apprentice. Specific tasks and activities are required. Examples include "Golf Club Design and Repair," "Analysis of the Swing," "Turfgrass Management" and "Caddie Program Management." The educational trainings and checkpoints can occur concurrently with earning the work credits.
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Step 7
Register for the PGA PGM Program Level 1 Checkpoint. Checkpoints are completed at the PGA Education Center in Palm Springs, Florida. There are three checkpoints that must be passed. Each requires a combination of self-study and seminar attendance, followed by passing a written knowledge test and performing a simulation test. Repeat for the Level 2 Checkpoint and Level 3 Checkpoint.
