What does it take to be a PGA certified teaching professional?

Question

I am interested in becoming or working for a golf course, resort, golf village, etc. I want to know what it takes to work as an assistant pro and eventually a pro at a golf course. And what it taked to become a certified teaching professional.

Answer 1

There is schooling and a playing ability test that you have to pass.  I started the program through the PGA of America, but there are lots of schools that have Golf Management programs.  The first step is passing the PAT.  This test is held on average length and difficulty golf courses, and consists of 36 holes in one day.  There is a set target score that you must meet or beat to be accepted into the program and to get certified.  You will need to be in the mid 70's in consecutive rounds, the actual target score is determined by slope and course rating of the course played for the PAT.  The total target score is usually just above 150.  Once you have passed this test, you can take the courses that the PGA of America requires.  This is a series of self taught labs, programs, and internship opportunities, such as Fundamentals of the golf swing, clubfitting, clubmaking, business classes, etc.  Once or twice a year you will have to go down to the PGA Headquarters in Florida to take the exams that go along with these tests.  Once you pass the tests, you will receive a certification based on what type of work you have done and what you want to accomplish in the field.  Hope this helps...be prepared to make no money for about the first 5 years of the program.

Answer 2

My best friend worked as one, but she first was an assistant in the office at a course.  I don't think she needed any schooling, she just kept doing it until she gained the title I believe.

Answer 3

Billy -

I've answered this question a few times before...in lieu of reposting the whole answer I will just provide a link to my previous best answer:

http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;...

Good Luck in your quest, it's a long road, if you stick with it and work hard it can pay off!

Answer 4

This might help:

http://www.ehow.com/how_2084729_become-p...

http://www.pgtaa.com/faq.html