New Partnership To Boost Golf Education In Scotland

The PGA and the University of the Highlands and Islands have unveiled a new partnership aimed at enhancing educational opportunities in Scotland.

Students are able to take either a BA Honours Degree in Professional Golf or in Golf Management at the University's Dornoch base next to the world-renowned Royal Dornoch Golf Club. There is also a new Diploma in Higher Education in Professional Golf which will be studied while students are in work at Scottish golf facilities.

The courses are aimed at those aspiring to a career in the golf industry which in Scotland is estimated to support the employment of more than 20,000 people.

The honours degrees are being delivered over a four year period on a full-time basis and are also available for part-time study. The diploma will be delivered by distance learning. The Professional Golf qualifications will ultimately lead to the opportunity for graduates to apply for PGA membership upon completion.

A close working relationship with Royal Dornoch will offer a unique opportunity for students to be involved in coaching, hosting golf events and placement opportunities at the world renowned golf club facility.

The courses cover topics such as coaching, equipment technology, sport science and business management plus other subject areas developed to meet industry expectation and requirements.

There will also be residential weeks at PGA headquarters at the Belfry for those students following the Diploma in Higher Education course.

For the honours degree students there will be summer placements in golf facilities at home and overseas.

Dr Kyle Phillpots, the PGA's director of education and career development, said:

''The change in the student funding system two years ago meant that Scottish students were at a disadvantage when accessing our vocational degree programme.''

''As a consequence, The PGA wanted to establish a partnership with a university in Scotland with the philosophy and dynamism that we have had for many years with the University of Birmingham in England. We are very pleased to be entering into a long term relationship with the university and believe it will provide an excellent opportunity to ensure that Scotland continues to have the highly skilled and knowledgeable professional workforce that the home of golf needs.''