Professional Golf Studies

• Taught by staff drawn from the ranks of qualified PGA Professionals, the PGA National Training Academy offers the premier professional golf education programme in the world.
• The PGA Training Academy stands out due to its rich history and reputation for excellence. With over 50 years of experience, it offers world-class education at The Belfry, supported by the University of Birmingham.
• Following the completion of the FdSc there is an option to continue with academic study and convert the qualification to BSc (Hons) in Professional Golf Studies.

Open Days 

The PGA offers you the opportunity to learn more about the course through in-person and virtual open days.

You’ll hear from experienced tutors, learn more about the course and see the fantastic facilities on offer at The PGA National training academy at The Belfry, spiritual home of the Ryder Cup.

• Face-to-face intensive residential course delivered at the Belfry (the PGA National Training Academy) covering core subject areas. These sessions are delivered in small groups by one/two tutors.
• Distance learning online offers flexibility and accessibility. All students have access to the Virtual Learning Environment (iVLE).
• Lectures provide structured, in-depth exploration of topics, delivered by experts to enhance students’ understanding and knowledge.

Contact hours

The FdSc and DipHE courses are designed to be part-time, allowing trainees to balance their studies with a role at a golf facility under a PGA Training Professional. Anticipate dedicating at least 10 hours per week to attending online lectures and completing assignments. This structure ensures that trainees can effectively integrate their learning with practical experience, enhancing their overall educational and professional development.

Assessment methods and feedback

You will be assessed through assignments (essays, reports, logs) and examinations (practical workshops, field assessments, written theory, video analysis) over three years. You must also maintain certifications in Disclosure, Safeguarding and Protecting Children, first aid, and complete two external golf coaching qualifications. Additionally, you must pass the PGA Coaching Assessment and participate in at least seven PGA-recognized tournaments annually. The first coaching qualification covers core coaching elements, while the second ensures competence in planning, delivering, and reviewing sessions. Both qualifications blend online learning with face-to-face delivery, requiring successful completion of theoretical and practical assessments.

General entry requirements 

• Applicants will be 18 years or older by 30 September of the year you intend to start the programme.
• Have an email address and internet access.

Golf Playing Handicap

• You should have maintained a handicap of 6.4(M) or 8.4 (F) handicap. Full details of playing requirements will be provided on application.
• Be working at a golf facility under the supervision of a PGA Training Professional.

Academic in England and Wales

GCSE requirements 

The minimum academic entry criteria is 4 GCSE’s at grades 4-9 (A-C). Maths and English Language, included. Preference will be given to applicants who have achieved 6 GCSE’S at grades A-C or better.

Other Qualifications

• Level 3 Communication will be accepted.
• BTEC First Diploma along with GSCE English & Maths at grades A-C.
• 14-16 Diploma Higher Award we will accept with GSCE English Language.
• Welsh Baccalaureate Intermediate Diploma we will accept with GCSE English Language
• The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) is the International version of the GCSE this is also acceptable at Grade A-C.
• Alternatively consideration will be given to applicants with Level 2 in Adult Literacy and/or Numeracy. Functional Skills 2 in Maths and/or English Language.
• The minimum academic entry criteria is 4 National 5 awards grades A-C or better (including English and Maths).
• Leaving certificate obtaining a minimum grade at Ordinary Level of D1 in both English and Mathematics plus a minimum grade at Ordinary Level of D1 in 2 other subjects.
• Passes at higher and honours level will naturally be accepted.
• Junior Certificate passes at either ordinary or higher level are not accepted.
• Applicants from outside the UK must have their country’s equivalent.

Academic in Scotland

The minimum academic entry criteria is 4 National 5 awards grades A-C or better (including English and Maths).

Academic in Ireland

Leaving certificate obtaining a minimum grade at Ordinary Level of D1 in both English and Mathematics plus a minimum grade at Ordinary Level of D1 in 2 other subjects.

Passes at higher and honours level will naturally be accepted.

Junior Certificate passes at either ordinary or higher level are not accepted.

Academic Overseas

Applicants from outside the UK must have their country’s equivalent.

A suitable level of written and spoken English must be demonstrated. All overseas students will have to pass their IELTS before they apply.

You may find this link helpful www.ielts-exam.net

It should be understood that Foundation Degree Level work is the same as the first 2 years of an honours degree, so there is a need for candidates to posses a good level of English writing ability.

Additional Information  

As well as completing the FdSc course, students must also hold an up to date Disclosure, a Safeguarding and Protecting Children certificate, complete two external golf coaching qualifications, hold a first aid certificate, pass the PGA Coaching Assessment and play in a minimum of 21 PGA recognised tournaments before applying for PGA Membership.

Full details are provided on application and during open days.

If you have any questions, please contact admissions@pga.org.uk

*Fees are subject to inflationary increase in subsequent years in line with UK government policy.

Additional Costs

In addition to the course fees, Trainees must pay the annual PGA Membership fee, currently £238.

Travel expenses when attending face-to-face residential courses, exams, coaching courses, tournament entry fees and associated travel expenses must be met by the individual.

Applications are made through the PGA. If you’re interested in applying for our Professional Golf Studies course, you can complete their online enquiry form here. This will be sent to the PGA admissions department who will then send you more information on your eligibility and the application requirements.

If you have any other questions, please contact admissions@pga.org.uk.

Find out more about careers for PGA Professionals