McMaster University’s Centre for Continuing Education (CCE) is entering the world of golf management education. Having recently acquired the Golf Management Institute of Canada’s (GMIC) successful online program in golf and resort management, McMaster will offer this program specifically designed for the global golf and resort industry beginning in August. With over 32,000 golf facilities in more than 200 countries, the launch of this unique program will be welcomed worldwide.
According to a recent study conducted by the National Allied Golf Association (NAGA), golf in Canada is a $19.7 billion industry employing over 300,000 people at 2,500 facilities nationwide.
Adult learners and professionals looking to enter this exciting global industry now have the opportunity to sharpen their management skills through this diploma program offered by McMaster University’s Centre for Continuing Education (CCE). Students who complete the 10-course online program will earn both a diploma from McMaster University and an industry credential from the GMIC.
“I am delighted that we are able to offer this program,” says Lorraine Carter, Director of McMaster University Centre for Continuing Education. “It is an important complement to our existing business programs and a commitment by McMaster’s Centre for Continuing Education to offer new and diverse programs. In particular, this program demonstrates our emerging interest in learning opportunities not only in business but in specific areas of business practice.”
Students will take courses in a wide range of areas pertaining to golf and resort management, including golf club governance, finance, strategic management, marketing, human resources, turf management, golf course design and entrepreneurship.
“The original GMIC online program in golf management was developed in 1999 to train future leaders of the Canadian golf industry,” says Grant Fraser, founder of the GMIC. “Over the past 18 years, the GMIC has successfully done this.
“Now, through McMaster’s Centre for Continuing Education, the program will only get better. McMaster University has a world-class reputation, and to be able to offer this unique program through one of Canada’s best universities is truly an exciting opportunity for anyone looking to pursue a management career in the global golf and resort industry.”
The program is well suited for working professionals looking to advance their careers and pursue something they are truly passionate about. With a flexible, part-time schedule, students who wish to earn their diploma in less than a year can do so by taking two online courses at a time.
“Studying online provides learners with the convenience and flexibility to pursue new career options so they don’t need to quit their jobs,” explains Fraser.“We’ve always described the program as one that brings the business of golf to the student. It’s very user-friendly.”
Graduates of the program will enter a highly diverse job market with many career opportunities available including public and private golf club management, sales and marketing, tournament coordination, golf association administration, as well as positions within the hospitality/resort sector in Canada and around the globe.
The courses offered in this program will provide participants with the practical knowledge to perform better at their current job or to attain a wide variety of higher positions within the golf industry, such as general manager, food & beverage manager, marketing specialist, sales representative, golf professional or golf course superintendent.
At a senior management level this program will also prepare owners or prospective owners of golf businesses to make more sound decisions.
The program is an open enrollment program which means that no application is required. Interested students are invited to register now at www.mcmastercce.ca