Golf qualifications from The PGA

The PGA Training Programme is the most respected golf qualification in the world.

The PGA has been involved in training and educating Golf Professionals for over 50 years and now runs all its programmes from The PGA National Training Academy at The Belfry in Sutton Coldfield, the spiritual home of the Ryder Cup. We provide a unique opportunity to study and immerse yourself in golf history while accessing the latest technology and world-class facilities.

Find out more about the three qualifications that The PGA offers.

FdSc - BSc (Hons) Professional Golf Studies

The Foundation Degree in Professional Golf Studies, delivered by The PGA, is a collaborative foundation degree awarded by the University of Birmingham. This three-year distance learning course is a core element of the PGA Training Programme with a strong focus on golf coaching & sports science, business & finance, equipment technology and custom fitting.

Length: 3 Years

Start: October 2026

Format: Part-time

Location: Distance Learning (with residentials)

DipHE - BA/BA (Hons) Professional Golf

The Diploma in Higher Education is delivered by The PGA in partnership with the University of the Highlands and Islands in Scotland. The three-year structured part-time course covers modules relevant to the varied demands of the golf industry with modules in coaching, equipment technology and custom fitting, sports science, retail, and business elements.

Length: 3 Years

Start: October 2026

Format: Part-time

Location: Distance Learning (with residentials)

BSc (Hons) Applied Golf Management Studies

This world-leading golf degree, taught in partnership with the University of Birmingham, covers modules in applied sports science, equipment technology, coaching theory and business management and provides students an opportunity to work within three industry-based placements.

Length: 3 Years

Start: October 2026

Format: Full-time

Location: University of Birmingham, UK

Which course is right for me?

We offer flexible, part-time courses perfectly suited to those already working in the golf industry as well as a full-time degree to immerse yourself in the varied demands of the golf industry and address issues faced by professional golfers, coaches and managers.

Here are some things to consider when deciding on which course suits you best:

Do I want to study part-time whilst working or do I want to study full-time at a leading UK University?

Do I meet the handicap requirements for the FdSc and DipHE Programmes?

Do I want to be able to study from anywhere?

Do I already have a role in the golf industry?

Do I want to be able to earn a full degree studying part-time?

Top-up Degree

Accelerate your career and set yourself apart. Turn your FdSc or DipHE qualification into a full degree or honours degree with The PGA.

PGA Trainees or Members who have gained the FdSc or DipHE qualification can continue their studies and professional development by working towards a full degree or Honours degree. The programmes are part-time, allowing you to continue to work and gain experience in the golf industry whilst you study.

International Students

We actively welcome applications from international students for our FdSc programme.

Hear from current and former students on why they chose to study with the World’s oldest PGA.

Meet our Staff

The PGA has been involved in training and educating Golf Professionals for over 50 years.

Hear from PGA Executive Director - Education, Dr Paul Wiseman on why there is nothing like the PGA Training Programme anywhere in the world.

Ready to start your application?

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our courses and career paths.

Take your first step into a career in golf.

Download our guide to PGA qualifications where you’ll learn everything about our courses and the incredible career opportunities they can lead to.