How to become a club prof.

Question
My name is Richard Smith!! i recently work in a kitchen at a golf course in pinehurst NC. I am wanting to change my career to golf. My handicap is a 5 i have had it down to a 2, but my question is how to become a club professional. I went to school cooking and it's not me. i graduated with my Culinary technology. I am wanting to know if there are any Golf Apprentic programs in my county?
                                   Thank you
                                  Richard Smith

Answer
Hey Richard

There are a couple of ways to become a PGA professional. The most common is to work your way through the PGA of America's apprentice program. In a nutshell, you will need to be working full time as an assistant professional while completing the training, which consists of a series of workshops/ seminars and other training programs. Typicaly it takes from 2 to 4 years to become a "Class A" PGA professional. In addition, you will have to take and pass the PAT (Playing Ability Test). I forget the number of strokes allowed, but it's surprisingly high. Lets just say that if you're playing to a handicap of 2 you'll have no problem passing the PAT. It's not a competition against other golfers as much as it is a test of your own ability to play at a decently high level.  

There is also a PGM program through several universities. This program gives you a degree while working off most of the programs of the apprentice route, but it obviously is a bit more involved.

You'l also find a variety of other programs designed to make you a "teaching pro." I would probably avoid anything that isn't affiliated with the PGA of America.

You should also know that there are more than a dozen classifications of PGA class "A" memberships. Driving range pros, coaches, etc. You should check in to what certification you want.

You can find out more by prowling around on PGA.com

Best of luck to you in your golf career.

John