Article  Golf Careers Provide Limitless Possibilities Those interested in turning their love of golf into more than just a pastime may find rewarding careers in the golf industry. Golf careers provide a variety of opportunities for managers, teachers, writers, landscapers, and more. A global industry worth billions a year, the golf business supports more than two million jobs worldwide. With thousands of golf courses in the United States alone, in addition to golf-related businesses such as equipment manufacturers, golf schools, publishing organizations, and golf resorts, the industry represents nearly limitless possibilities for golf careers. Being successful in the golf industry requires much more than understanding the game or playing well. In fact, golf skill is not even necessary to pursue a career in golf, though a love of the game will certainly help. Today’s golf careers require trained professionals with a solid understanding of business management as well as the overall golf industry. As in any industry, success depends on understanding the value of operations, management, growth, profitability, and many other facets of business management. An education that combines wide-ranging business training with industry-specific skills is an important first step in pursuing a career in golf. Students who are interested in golf careers should consider pursuing a degree in sports management, which will uniquely prepare them for the golf industry. Many golf management schools and accredited schools offer golf-related courses and have golf facilities on site. Look for golf course management courses included in other academic disciplines. Some universities offer horticulture programs that combine business and communication skills with hospitality management and landscaping, preparing graduates for a variety of golf careers such as golf course superintendents or facility managers. Even if you’ve already received a degree in a different field, you can enroll at a specialty golf school, which offers two-year associate degrees emphasizing golf course operations and management. As you pursue your golf education, consider which types of golf careers may best relate to your individual skills and interests. Anyone who is skilled in teaching may wish to consider a career as a golf teaching professional. Teaching Professional careers include working as a private golf instructor, supervising instructors, or teaching other professionals how to teach. Golf Coach positions are also available at colleges and universities. Those interested in broadcasting and journalism can choose from many golf careers such as writing, editing, or publishing for golf-related media, or becoming a golf commentator for radio or cable television. Other golf careers related to media include golf public relations jobs or tournament coordination. Golf facilities provide a variety of career opportunities such as Head Golf Professional or Assistant Golf Professional, whose duties may include supervising the golf shop and golf range, fitting and repairing clubs, inventory control, and bookkeeping. If you enjoy working with and learning about equipment, you may want to pursue a career in retail golf sales as the manager of a golf pro shop. Careers in golf equipment also include Equipment Specialists, who specialize in fitting and repairing clubs. If you have an aptitude for customer service and enjoy the hospitality industry, consider a career with a golf hotel or resort.  Positions in hotel operations management, food and beverage management, or golf course maintenance provide wide-ranging experience in the golf management business. Whatever type of golf career you plan to pursue, obtaining a well-rounded education from an accredited institution will increase your chances of continued success in this popular and potentially lucrative industry. Category Associate Degree Author Admin Add To Favorites Print This Article Email Article To A Friend Post Comments   Rate This Article (0) 1 - Poor2345 - Good678910 - Excellent Added On 2009-05-21