Online Golf Degrees vs. Traditional Programs: Making the Right Choice for You
Golf education encourages passionate students to leverage their love of the green and help others discover the joy of the game. Integrating core golf techniques and concepts with management or education-oriented coursework, these unique programs can prepare students for rewarding career opportunities in the golf industry — including facilities management, tournament operations, golf instruction, and beyond.
This journey begins with choosing the right degree program. Degree options with targeted golf education are available at the associate, bachelor’s, or master’s level. When looking at a golf program, prospective students should consider their career goals, learning preferences, and program accreditation or reputation.
For many aspiring golf students, the toughest decisions revolve around degree format and choosing an online golf program or a more conventional, in-person approach to college education. There is no correct answer and we highlight a few considerations below.
What Is an Online Golf Degree?
An online golf degree provides a virtual and accessible format for building competencies related to golf management or education. Centered on online lessons and discussions, these programs also leverage advanced technology to deliver an immersive experience, regardless of geographic location. Coursework and curricula reflect traditional golf programs but with an added technological element and the opportunity to study from any location.
Courses and Curriculum
Online golf degree programs incorporate golf-centric coursework, including general education requirements and a range of elective options. Curricula can differ depending on the type of degree; for example, associate and bachelor’s degrees place a strong emphasis on general education and major courses, whereas graduate golf degrees provide a deeper dive into theory and research.
Online courses rely on innovative applications and online resources (such as video libraries) to expose students to critical concepts and facilitate strong student-instructor relationships.
What Is a Traditional Golf Degree?
Traditional golf degrees resemble online programs but bring coursework to conventional, brick-and-mortar classrooms. Students attend class in person and also have access to on-campus facilities featuring state-of-the-practice equipment. But, as with online golf degrees, technological resources are plentiful, with analysis systems and launch monitors providing unique insights.
Courses and Curriculum
Like online golf programs, traditional degrees entail a mix of general education, major (golf-centered) courses, and electives. The main difference lies not in the types of courses available but rather in how and where this coursework is accessed: on-campus and in classrooms or golf facilities, rather than online. Otherwise, courses cover similar concepts and provide opportunities to build relationships with PGA faculty members, who represent the industry’s best and brightest.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Golf Program
There are numerous ways to seek a golf degree and prepare for an exciting career in coaching, management, and operations. Much will depend on your current circumstances (for instance, where you live and whether you are already employed). Additionally, personal preferences and strengths must be accounted for, as some people simply find certain learning formats more accessible or enjoyable. Be sure to consider the following before applying for golf degree programs.
Learning Style and Preferences
Different instructional styles appeal to several types of students. For example, some uncover the most impactful takeaways through discussions with instructors and fellow students, whereas others prefer in-depth readings. Still, other people learn best through doing — either with work experiences or by participating in hands-on class projects.
Although the ideal program will accommodate multiple learning styles, this may be more readily achieved with certain formats. Online courses often go all-out with visual learning, for instance, while also incorporating online lessons and immersive technology. There are various methods to connect with faculty and peers and apply concepts learned throughout the program in an online format. Online students can learn the concepts and apply them in their real-world settings from wherever they are studying.
The role of structure should be considered as well. Online learning requires significant self-discipline, and while support is available, students must show exceptional time management skills. These are also essential for traditional golf programs, but campus-based coursework can provide a stronger framework for students who need more structure.
Career Goals and Industry Expectations
Career goals play heavily in the process of selecting golf-related majors. Some golf enthusiasts may be drawn to management-oriented programs, while others prefer to focus on turfgrass management or exercise science.
Degree format may influence these decisions, too, as certain students may find it easier to develop particular career skills through in-person learning experiences.
From the employer’s perspective, either type of program can prove valuable if it involves an accredited curriculum. However, some students may benefit more from in-person professional networking, which can open the door to a wide range of career opportunities. This comes down to personal preferences, and both traditional and online golf degrees can help students develop the skills and contacts needed to thrive in the golf industry.
Available Resources and Time Commitment
Any degree program will call for a considerable time commitment. With online programs, though, this may be somewhat reduced because there is no need to commute to class. Instead, online students can log in from the comfort of home and learn at their own pace. Meanwhile, they enjoy access to a wealth of digital resources, such as vast video libraries and high-tech immersive opportunities. For on-campus students, resources may be more tangible, with many looking forward to putting concepts into action as they explore state-of-the-practice facilities.
Advantages of Online Golf Degrees
Earning a golf degree online can be a highly fulfilling experience, regardless of location or scheduling concerns. Relocating is not always a realistic possibility — but thankfully, through the power of immersive technology, students can leverage engaging course materials while interacting extensively with PGA Faculty.
Notable advantages of online golf education include:
Flexibility
Working students tend to gravitate toward online programs, and for good reason: Their busy schedules simply do not accommodate extra in-person commitments. Flexible online solutions allow them to develop curated work and school schedules while maintaining a much-needed school-work-life balance.
Accessibility and Convenience
Thanks to online opportunities, geographic limitations are a thing of the past. Equipped with a reliable internet connection, students from across the nation (and the globe) can enroll in online golf programs. Relocation is unnecessary although there are certainly in-person benefits to the on-campus experience, online offers much more flexibility — especially for working professionals or those with family obligations.
Varied Learning Resources
While online students may not be able to visit indoor golf facilities at a moment’s notice, there are still plenty of learning resources well within reach. These align with a variety of learning styles and can bring a surprisingly immersive feel to the online education experience.
Many resources work particularly well for students who prefer to learn at their own pace; they can easily revisit complex materials as needed to ensure they’ve fully mastered essential concepts. Plus, with video libraries and voice-over communication available, it’s easy to see why online students exhibit extraordinary concept mastery.
Advantages of Traditional Golf Degree Programs
Traditional golf degrees make the most of brick-and-mortar facilities while also providing face-to-face interactions between faculty and students. Another advantage of in-person golf programs are the environments and communities available for students to join, grow and embrace their passion for golf.
In-Person Instruction and Interaction
It is more than possible to forge strong connections online, but there is something unique about in-person interactions. Certain students simply find it easier to let their guard down when they spend long hours together on campus or, better yet, at the golf course. These relationships can be deeply fulfilling and form the basis of a solid professional network.
Access to On-Campus Facilities and Resources
One of the most compelling reasons to stick with traditional schooling is on-campus facilities. These are especially valuable for golf students, as they extend far beyond the usual campus provisions like libraries and cafeterias.
Conventional golf campuses can grant students unlimited access to real-world golf courses, where they can see newly mastered golf concepts and techniques played out in real-time. In addition, there are numerous training opportunities right on campus: like joining a golf club or participating on a golf team, a sizable indoor space complete with a swing analysis system, launch monitors, and much more.
Learn more!
Want more tips? If you want to take your game to the next level, contact our team at Keiser University’s College of Golf & Sport Management today. With our dedication and experience, we can elevate your game to new heights together. Give us a call today at 888-355-4465.
