The PGA / Professional Golf Management (PGM) program, a four and a half year college curriculum for aspiring PGA Professionals, is a structured academic program accredited by the PGA of America. Florida Gulf Coast University is one of only 20 schools accredited by the PGA nationally, and one of only two in the state of Florida. The program is designed to provide the skill and knowledge base necessary for future golf professionals to succeed in a wide variety of positions within the industry. Students attending the PGA/PGM program at Florida Gulf Coast University will graduate with a Bachelor of Science major in Professional Golf Management. Upon completion of the university's requirements, PGA requirements, and 16 months of internship, students are eligible to become Class A PGA Members upon graduation. Some of the golf specific courses you will take as an upper-level student in the program will include: Turfgrass Management, Golf Facility Operations, Advanced Golf Merchandising Operations, Director of Golf Instructional Operations, Golf Course Ownership, and Golf Executive Management. There have also been courses developed to aid in the completion of the PGA's Level 1, 2, and 3 education requirements.
Located in southwest Florida, the PGM Program at FGCU not only boasts one of the most desired geographical locations in the country, but with over 150 courses within an hour of campus, is also serving a local industry need. Current PGM students have the opportunity to work part-time, intern, and play at some of the most exclusive facilities in the country.
Program Admission Requirements
Limited Access
This is a limited access program. Qualified students are admitted for the fall semester on a space-available basis. Admission decisions are based on materials and coursework completed at the time of application. For priority consideration, all application materials must be received by February 15th of the calendar year in which entry is sought.
Admission Requirements
Submit a FGCU Undergraduate Admission Application and satisfy all applicable university admission requirements.
Complete common prerequisites with a grade of C or better.
Submit a PGM Program application form to the Professional Golf Management Program office.
Provide proof of a golf handicap of 12 or lower to the Professional Golf Management Program office, verified by one of the following: (a) USGA handicap card, (b) letter from a PGA Golf Professional, (c) letter of playing ability from a high school golf coach.
Program Requirements
FGCU General Education Program (GEP) (36 hrs) Refer to the General Education Program for more information.
Communication (6 hrs)
Mathematics (6 hrs)
Humanities (9 hrs)
Social Sciences (6-9 hrs)
Natural Sciences (6-9 hrs)
Note: At least one Natural Sciences course must include a laboratory or field component. Courses meeting this requirement contain a “C” or “L” in their course numbers.
Satisfy elements of the Professional Golfers Association of America PGM program, including (a) passing Level 1, 2, and 3 checkpoints administered by the PGA of America, and (b) passing the PGA Player Ability Test. For those wishing to become PGA of America members, United States citizenship is required. Consult a college advisor for additional details.
Transfer Notes and Acceptable Substitutes
The following substitutions are acceptable for common prerequisites:
