Sun Country PGA / Careers in Golf
Become a PGA Professional
Teach the game, lead a golf operation or bring your skills to the business of golf. Explore your path to PGA of America Membership.
Paths to Membership
PGA of America offers two primary pathways to membership: the Associate Program and the University Program. Reciprocity options are also available to eligible professionals.
Learn While You Work
PGA Professional Golf Management Program
The PGM Associate Program combines coursework, seminars and work experience portfolios with eligible golf employment. Complete three levels of education as you work toward membership.
Explore the Associate ProgramThe College Path
PGA Golf Management University Program
Earn a bachelor’s degree through a PGA-accredited university program that combines academic study, internships and player development. Contact participating universities for their admission requirements.
Explore University ProgramsFor Eligible Professionals
LPGA & Other Reciprocity Options
Eligible LPGA professionals, tour players and members of approved international PGA associations may qualify for a reciprocity option. Requirements depend on your membership and professional status.
Review Reciprocity OptionsGetting Started in the Associate Program
Review these prerequisites before applying. PGA of America’s program pages provide the full requirements, current fees and application instructions.
Complete the Qualifying Level
Study the four online Qualifying Level courses and complete the required quizzes.
Meet the playing requirement
Obtain a qualifying PAT score or a passing score accepted by PGA of America. Review PAT and alternate score options.
Complete a background check
A background check is required for individuals registering or re-registering as an Associate.
Verify eligible employment
Your position must fall within an approved employment classification. Review eligible positions.
Document your education
Have a high school diploma, or be at least 18 with an accepted equivalent. Include the required education documentation with your application.
Prepare your application
After completing the prerequisites, gather the required materials and review the fees. View the Associate application checklist.
Playing Ability Test
A qualifying score can satisfy the playing requirement for entry into the Associate Program. A full passing score is required for PGA of America Membership.
Understand Your Options
Review the traditional 36-hole PAT, qualifying scores and approved alternate score submissions before choosing your next step.
PAT Requirements & Score OptionsFind a Playing Ability Test
Use PGA of America’s PAT search to find events by timeframe, PGA Section or state. Review the event details before registering.
Search PAT Dates & LocationsPGA of America account sign-in required.
Membership & Career Resources
For Future Members
Build Your Career in Golf
Join a network of more than 30,000 PGA of America Golf Professionals, with opportunities for education, career development, competition and professional connections.
The brochure is the Winter 2024 edition. Refer to PGA of America for current offerings and eligibility.
For Employers
Hire a PGA Professional
Learn how a PGA of America Golf Professional’s education, experience and access to industry resources can support your facility, your team and your golfers.
Benefits of Hiring a PGA ProfessionalSupporting an Associate
Help your Associate put their coursework into practice. The mentoring guide offers guidance for supervising professionals; PGA of America’s program pages provide current requirements.
Earlier reference links
These older resources are retained for reference. Use the current program and reciprocity pages above for requirements.
- Supervising Professional Guide — January 2015
PGA PGM 2.0 guide. PGA sign-in required. - Original LPGA Test-Out Options Link
This former page is no longer available. Use the current reciprocity information above.