Featuring Mike and Sean Woods, PGA Professionals at Haggin Oaks Golf Complex
Many wonder what happens after junior golf. At the Morton Golf Foundation, we often hear from junior golfers who dream of turning their love for the game into a lifelong career. While becoming a touring professional is a challenging path, there are many other rewarding opportunities in the golf industry.
To help answer some of those questions, Morton Golf Foundation board member Frank LaRosa sat down with Mike Woods, PGA, Director of Golf at Haggin Oaks Golf Complex, and Sean Woods, PGA, Pro Shop Manager at Haggin Oaks. Together, they shared insights into the PGA Golf Management (PGM) program, career possibilities, and advice for aspiring young golfers.
What Is the PGA Golf Management Program?
The PGA Golf Management (PGM) program is a college-level curriculum offered at 16 universities across the country. Students can earn a traditional degree such like Business Administration, Hospitality & Tourism, Agriculture, or other, while completing their PGA coursework and internships.
“It’s just like majoring in art or business,” Mike says. “You graduate with a college degree and your PGA accreditation; setting you up for success both inside and outside the golf industry.”
Sean attended New Mexico State University, one of the accredited PGM schools, where he earned a degree in Business Administration with a specialization in PGA Golf Management.
A Father’s Pride and a Son’s Passion
As both a PGA professional and a proud father, Mike admits that watching Sean pursue a golf career has been a dream come true.
“Not everybody gets the chance to work in something they love,” Mike says. “When Sean decided he wanted to make golf his career, I couldn’t have been more excited.”
Sean’s love for the game deepened in his teenage years. Initially drawn to coaching and instruction, he’s since found a passion for golf operations and facility management. “That’s one of the great things about this industry,” Sean adds. “There are so many different paths you can take, from teaching to running golf facilities to managing retail and tournaments.”
Learning by Doing: Internships and Real-World Experience
A key part of the PGM program is hands-on experience. Sean completed internships at courses across the country, from a resort in Idaho to a private club in New Jersey and the Meadow Club in Marin County, California.
“Every internship was different,” Sean recalls. “I worked in the shop, caddied, taught lessons, ran junior programs, and learned about merchandising. Those experiences gave me a well-rounded understanding of the golf business.”
For Juniors Who Dream of Playing Professionally
Many juniors wonder whether pursuing a PGM degree means giving up their dream of playing professionally. Sean’s answer: not at all.
“When I was in the program, my friends and I played six or seven days a week,” he says. “And after college, there are still tons of PGA Section events and tournaments.
Guidance for Parents
“Sean and I actually have the same business degree,” Mike shares. “The PGM program just adds a focus on golf management. Even if a student decides to go in another direction after graduation, they still have a valuable business education.”
He also highlights that many programs, like New Mexico State’s, participate in the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program, which offers in-state tuition rates to California students. Plus, scholarships are available through organizations such as the Morton Golf Foundation, The First Tee, and other local Sacramento youth golf programs.
More Than a Degree; It’s a Community
Beyond academics and internships, Sean emphasizes the lifelong connections built through the PGM program.
“I’ve made friends all over the country; people working at private clubs, public courses, and resorts,” he says. “It’s an incredible network. No matter where you go, you’ll always have connections in the golf world.”
Choosing the Right School
For students considering the PGM path, Sean offers a few words of advice:
- Pick a degree that fits your goals. “Some schools pair the PGM program with Hospitality or Agriculture, while others like New Mexico State focus on Business. Choose what makes sense for you — both in and outside the golf industry.”
- Consider the climate. “If you love to play year-round, pick a school in a warmer region. Some northern schools have long winters, which can limit your playing time.”
- Think long-term. “Even if your dream is to play on tour, it’s smart to have a degree and a backup plan. Golf careers can take many forms.”
A Final Word
As Mike sums it up, “The goal is for young people to grow, learn, and find what makes them happy. The PGM program gives them a foundation to do that; whether they stay in golf or take their skills somewhere new.”
The Morton Golf Foundation is proud to support students like Sean Woods, young professionals turning their passion for golf into meaningful, fulfilling careers.
If you or your junior golfer would like to learn more about scholarships, education pathways, or career opportunities in golf, visit MortonGolfFounhttps://mortongolffoundation.org/dation.org or reach out to our team.
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