PGA IGI’s e-learning program is up-skilling today’s club managers

Industry managers are currently enhancing their skill sets and knowledge entirely online through the PGA International Golf Institute’s (PGA IGI) e-learning program for club managers.

The PGA IGI’s Advanced Club Management Program, incorporating the qualification BSB61015 Advanced Diploma of Leadership and Management, provides students with access to best industry practices and current trends that best recognises the club management industry today and into the future.

Currently 32 students, made up of GM’s, second-tier managers, Head Professionals and golf course superintendents, are all studying the program through the PGA’s e-learning platform, The Fairway.

This format of learning provides students with flexibility during their study, based around work and life commitments.

Penrith Golf Club General Manager and 2016 GMA Bursary recipient, Brendon Kop, is currently studying the program having commenced study in July 2016. The flexibility of study through e-learning and program support has been well received during his study.

“The program is well put together and easy to navigate via the online e-learning platform,” explained Kop.

“It’s a user friendly platform that allows for excellent tracking of unit completion throughout the study.”

An important aspect of the program’s delivery is aimed at making the content specific and relevant to a GM, and their duties within club management.

“I have found the content very relevant to my role as a GM,” continued Kop.

“It has been fruitful in assisting the club with our planning of events and business review.”

Along with the relevant content, a key component of the Advanced Club Management Program is the regular webinars that students can access, that have been introduced in 2016.

“The webinars have been introduced to add to the content of the program, providing current best industry trends direct from industry leaders to our students,” explains Christine Straw, PGA IGI Senior Manager.

“We are proud to work with industry leaders from the PGA, GMA, leading industry managers and experts in their fields to deliver this additional content for the students in the program.”

“Students can view the webinars live, or watch a replay at any stage during their study of the Advanced Club Management Program,” explained Straw.

According to Kop, the program still provides students with support despite the delivery being 100% online.

“The PGA IGI staff have been fantastic with their communication and support, providing a sense of ‘being there’ despite the program being conducted in a virtual environment.”

The qualification takes a maximum of two years to complete via e-learning. The PGA IGI offers flexibility with intake dates for new students, with new intakes beginning at the start of each month from February through to December.

Exclusive member rates are available to members of the PGA of Australia and GMA (conditions apply). All students are eligible to apply for RPL and direct credit transfer as part of their studies.

For further information regarding the PGA IGI Advanced Club Management Program, please contact Luke Bryden on (07) 5657 6109 or lbryden@pga.org.au. A course brochure is also available from the PGA IGI website.