How to Become a Professional Golf Teacher

Driving ranges, summer camps and golf retail stores provide additional employment opportunities.

Like most other professionals, golfing coaches are feeling the crunch in these tumultuous economic times. However, coaching opportunities still exist at colleges and high schools, as well as at private and public country clubs. Golf teachers instruct their clients on the techniques and attitude that are necessary to master the game. To receive accreditation as a golf teacher you must develop not only a strong game but also an ability to convey its nuances to others. Then, you must enroll in a short training program and, in some cases, pass a licensure exam.

Instructions

1. Develop a strong golf game through years of rounds at championship courses and at driving ranges. Also study the many facets of the game and begin developing your expertise of the game's rules. Consult former and current golf professionals for further insight into the game.

2. Pursue an associate's or bachelor's degree in exercise science, physiology, kinesiology or a coaching-related field. This is especially critical if you plan on coaching on the high school level. Some coaches are even asked to coach another sport outside of golf season. Some academic teachers with expertise are asked to be part-time coaches. Even if you don't plan on coaching high school golf, a degree will connote coaching expertise.

3. Seek out an apprenticeship through a professional organization like the PGA. In such a program, you will receive a more formal instruction on how to teach the game as well as develop an understanding of the business side of the sport. Completing an apprenticeship with the PGA will later allow you to join the organization. Visit its website for more information.

4. Attain your certification through a professional organization such as the PGA, United States Golf Teachers Federation (USGTF) or Professional Golf Teachers Association of America (PGTAA). The latter requires you to complete a training program and pass a corresponding two-part exam before becoming certified. With the former organization, you will have to pass a Playing Aptitude Test to demonstrate your ability to teach the game.

5. Maintain your skills by enrolling in a number of continuing education programs every year. Completing these courses, coupled with your professional accreditation, will contribute to your credibility as an instructor.

References

• Professional Golf Teachers Association of America: Frequently Asked Questions...
• PGA: The PGA Professional
• United States Golf Teacher Federation: Your Career as a Golf Teaching Professional and the USGTF
• Kevin Battersby: Become a Golf Instructor
• Career Overview: Sports (Athletic) and Coaching Careers, Jobs and Employment Information