What to expect from a career in Golf Facility Operations
Golf facility operations programs at Ontario colleges prepare students for careers in the competitive golf sector, and provide them with an edge in the growing hospitality industry. These highly specialized programs cover all aspects of the business side of the sport, including golf course maintenance, events, customer service and much more.
If you love golf and are interested in handling the day-to-day operations of golf courses, or you want to learn how to take care of the course itself, here’s what you need to know.
Golf Facility Operations Courses
Ontario college golf facility operations programs provide students with both theory and practical experience in golf course operations and maintenance. Students will learn how to develop policies and procedures and how to work with a variety of departments and vendors.
Program courses cover a wide range of topics, including (but not limited to):
- Golf history and rules
- Basic equipment repair
- Turf maintenance and construction
- Event and tournament planning
- Skills development (golf swing and techniques)
To complement the golf operations and maintenance courses and prepare students for golf hospitality and business management, some programs also include business courses like communications, marketing and customer service.
Other golf facility operations programs will have courses that focus more on the technical skills in golf course operations, from equipment repair and landscaping to irrigation and pest and weed control.
Co-op work placements and internships are typically part of the curriculum in golf course facility operations programs, giving students the opportunity to apply their knowledge in real-world work settings and create contacts in the industry.
General Golf Facility Operations Program Requirements
Golf facility operations programs at Ontario colleges require an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, including a grade 12 English credit. Some programs may also recommend students have good stamina, as parts of the job require physical activity.
Golf Facility Operations Jobs and Salaries
Graduates of golf facility operations programs find positions at golf courses and related organizations in areas like retail, operations, marketing, maintenance and landscaping. Job titles include (but aren’t limited to):
- Pro Shop Manager
- Tournament Director
- Operations Manager
- Equipment Technician
- Golf Course Superintendent
The average starting salary for golf facility operations graduates is between $25,000 and $30,000 per year. Management positions will start at a slightly higher salary of around $32,000 or more.
Ontario Colleges Offering Golf Facility Operations Programs
Use the left-column navigation to refine your search by College, Program Availability, Program Start Date and more, or see the table below for a complete list of golf facility operations programs at Ontario colleges.
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