Canadian golf course management programs are most prevalent in Ontario, Alberta and British Columbia. Colleges typically offer two- to three-year diploma programs that require completion of a mandatory set of mostly classroom-based courses. Golf course management certification programs are also available through professional associations and clubs, which may or may not be approved and/or accredited by the Canadian Professional Golf Association or the Royal Canadian Golf Association. These programs may be a few hours, days, weeks or months, and can be in a range of formats, from seminars to online workshops. The Golf Management Institute of Canada offers the CPGA's core competency golf modules online.
College golf management programs cover a combination of business fundamentals and specific golf industry proficiencies. Course instructors include golf industry professionals and individuals with specialized training in business administration, marketing, human resources or hospitality. College programs may also offer co-op or internship opportunities with golf courses. Certification programs with professional associations or clubs typically focus on specific golf management techniques or competencies, and can be tailored to a participant's current level of industry experience. These programs are generally geared to teach standards that support membership with a given club or association.
Acceptance to a golf management program at a college in Canada typically requires a Canadian secondary school diploma or equivalent. Some schools also require particular final-year courses in math and/or English. Colleges may permit mature students (over the age of 19) or others who do not meet education requirements to take a separate admission test. Entrance requirements to certification programs vary, but usually require previous industry experience and/or a particular level of formal education. To take courses at the GMIC, applicants must have a secondary school diploma or a college or university degree, or five years of golf management experience.
For Canadians, the cost of a college program in golf management for the 2009 to 2010 academic year ranged from $1,500 (CAD) to $4,800 (CAD) per term, with programs generally having three to six terms. International students may pay double the domestic amount. Professional courses offered by golf associations and clubs can vary. An online course with the GMIC in 2010, for example, cost $589 (CAD).
Before enrolling in any academic or professional program, do your homework. Visit the CPGA website to ensure that a program meets the requirements for CPGA accreditation. All programs have a website you can visit. Browse course content and the profiles of course instructors. Although you may read testimonials about the program to learn about the experiences of previous students, look beyond the information published on the program's website.