Most Influential Colleges in Golf Today
The modern game of golf is thought to have originated in Scotland in the Middle Ages. Golf has come a long way since then, with names like Phil Mickelson, Tiger Woods, and Scottie Scheffler, and popular sporting events like the PGA Tour are in the sports main stream.
Here we take a look at the colleges and universities that have the most influential golf alumni.
Stanford University tops the list of best colleges and universities for golf, followed by Ohio State and Arizona State. A quick glance at the alumni from each program makes it easy to see why these athletics programs topped our list.
Ranking third, Arizona was home to six-time PGA champion Phil Mickeslon. Ohio State produced the Golden Bear—Jack Nicklaus, who still holds the record for most major PGA championships with 18.
And Stanford University tops the list on the strength of Tiger Woods, who ranks as the most influential golfer on our list, even dramatically overshadowing fellow alumnus and legendary predecessor Tom Watson (who tallies an influence score 1/10 that of Tiger Woods).
Most Influential Colleges in Golf
- Stanford University
- Ohio State University
- Arizona State University
- Wake Forest University
- University of Tulsa
- University of Houston
- University of Texas at Austin
- Georgia Tech
- University of Arizona
- Oklahoma State University–Stillwater
- Stanford University
- University of California, Los Angeles
- Duke University
- University of Texas at Austin
- Northwestern University
- Ohio State University
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- University of Arizona
- University of Florida
- University of Georgia
- Arizona State University 90%
- University of Arizona 87%
- Augusta University 86%
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas 85%
- University of Alabama 80%
- Oklahoma State University–Stillwater 71%
- University of Tulsa 69%
- Brigham Young University 67%
- Furman University 67%
- University of Houston 66%
- San Diego State University 25 to 1
- Brigham Young University 21 to 1
- University of Houston 21 to 1
- Auburn University 20 to 1
- Georgia Tech 19 to 1
- University of Alabama 19 to 1
- Arizona State University 19 to 1
- University of Texas at Austin 18 to 1
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas 18 to 1
- University of California, Los Angeles 18 to 1
- Northwestern University $63,468
- Duke University $62,688
- Wake Forest University $62,128
- Stanford University $58,416
- Rollins College $56,110
- Furman University $55,772
- University of Tulsa $47,211
- University of Texas at Austin $11,698
- University of California, Los Angeles $11,564
- Ohio State University $11,525
- Duke University $60,220
- Stanford University $56,487
- Northwestern University $51,869
- Wake Forest University $38,650
- Rollins College $26,351
- University of Tulsa $25,002
- Georgia Tech $14,064
- University of Arizona $12,348
- Furman University $12,233
- Ohio State University $12,092
- Duke University
- Rollins College
- Furman University
- Auburn University
- San Diego State University
- University of California, Los Angeles
- Brigham Young University
- University of Georgia
- Augusta University
- University of Alabama
- Oklahoma State University–Stillwater
- Augusta University
- Rollins College
- University of Tulsa
- Furman University
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas
- San Diego State University
- Wake Forest University
- Auburn University
- Georgia Tech
- Stanford University 4%
- Duke University 6%
- Northwestern University 7%
- University of California, Los Angeles 9%
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 17%
- Georgia Tech 17%
- Wake Forest University 21%
- University of Florida 23%
- Florida State University 25%
- University of Texas at Austin 31%
- Stanford University 5 to 1
- Duke University 6 to 1
- Northwestern University 6 to 1
- Furman University 9 to 1
- Wake Forest University 10 to 1
- University of Tulsa 10 to 1
- Rollins College 11 to 1
- University of Florida 16 to 1
- University of Arizona 17 to 1
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 17 to 1
- University of Florida $4,477
- Florida State University $4,640
- Oklahoma State University–Stillwater $5,417
- San Diego State University $5,742
- Brigham Young University $6,304
- Augusta University $6,892
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill $7,019
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas $8,159
- University of Houston $8,685
- University of Georgia $9,790
- Augusta University $5,504
- Oklahoma State University–Stillwater $5,611
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas $5,976
- San Diego State University $7,176
- Brigham Young University $7,932
- University of Houston $8,713
- University of Georgia $8,878
- Florida State University $9,684
- Auburn University $10,386
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill $10,552
Here are the most influential colleges and universities that golf enthusiasts should consider enrolling in!
Featured Programs
The Most Influential Colleges in Golf Today
- #3 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #3 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #3 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #4 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025
Tuition + fees
$58K
Acceptance
4%
Graduation
95%
Student body
20K
Median SAT/ACT
1540/34
Career Outlook for degree at Stanford University
Cost of Degree: $62,484Expenses: $25,349Starting Salary: $141,300Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryStanford University is among the best universities for students seeking excellent golf programs. With several influential and highest-paid golfers, such as Tiger Woods and Michelle Wie, Stanford ranks at the top stop for the most influential colleges in golf today. And if Tiger Woods isn’t influential enough, Stanford has also crowned three NCAA individual champions, and the Stanford Cardinal golf team won nine NCAA Championships, most recently in 2019.
Stanford University’s Most Influential Golfers
- Tiger Woods
- Tom Watson
- Mickey Wright
- Notah Begay III
- John Brodie
- Casey Martin
- Sandy Tatum
- David Chung
- Hilary Lunke
- Bob Rosburg
- Anne Quast
- Albane Valenzuela
- Forrest Fezler
- Christian Cévaër
- Joseph Bramlett
- Shelley Hamlin
- Mariah Stackhouse
- Zack Miller
- Mhairi McKay
- Michelle Wie West
- Lori Castillo
- Viraat Badhwar
- Shannon Aubert
- Allison Finney
- #10 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #10 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #14 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #15 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025
Tuition + fees
$12K
Acceptance
53%
Graduation
88%
Student body
67K
Median SAT/ACT
1395/30
Career Outlook for degree at Ohio State University
Cost of Degree: $12,859Expenses: $18,372Starting Salary: $53,600Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOhio State is known for having successful teams for both men’s and women’s golf at the collegiate level. Ohio State has won two NCAA national championships.
Two of its famous alums include Jack Nicklaus (GCAA Lifetime Achievement Award recipient) and Bobby Jones (first golf Grand Slam winner). The Scarlet Course, the more well-known of the university’s two golf courses, is regarded as one of the nation’s top collegiate golf courses in the nation.
Ohio State University’s Most Influential Golfers
- #3 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #3 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #12 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #23 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025
Tuition + fees
$12K
Acceptance
90%
Graduation
67%
Student body
85K
Career Outlook for degree at Arizona State University
Cost of Degree: $12,051Expenses: $21,219Starting Salary: $55,500Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryArizona State University’s top two golfers include Paul Casey and a US Ryder Cup team member, Phil Mickelson. In addition to having one of the top college golf facilities, Arizona State has won two national NCAA titles, six regional NCAA titles, and twelve Pac-12 titles.
Arizona State University’s Most Influential Golfers
- Phil Mickelson
- Paul Casey
- Jon Rahm
- Chez Reavie
- Anna Nordqvist
- JoAnne Carner
- Matt Jones
- Per-Ulrik Johansson
- Tom Purtzer
- Jeff Quinney
- Dan Forsman
- Grace Park
- Alejandro Cañizares
- Mike Hill
- Howard Twitty
- Brandie Burton
- Wendy Ward
- Mike Morley
- Philip Francis
- Giulia Molinaro
- Louise Stahle
- Knut Børsheim
- Morris Hatalsky
- Todd Demsey
- Amy Fruhwirth
- Mary Bea Porter
- Scott Pinckney
- Yu Chun-an
- Miriam Nagl
- Linnea Ström
More Arizona State Influential Golfers
Arizona State University’s Online Degrees
BA in Applied Science
Degree Concentrations
- Project Management
- Health Sciences
- Required Credits: 111-120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Business
Degree Concentrations
- Communication
- Sustainability
- Required Credits: 114-120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Educational Studies
Degree Concentrations
- Business
- Community Health
- Family and Human Development
- Global Studies
- Health Innovations
- Personal Health
- Political Science
- Organizational Leadership
- Required Credits: 114-120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #2 Best Private Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #4 Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2025 #4 Best Research Universities in North Carolina 2025
Tuition + fees
$62K
Acceptance
21%
Graduation
90%
Student body
10K
Career Outlook for degree at Wake Forest University
Cost of Degree: $64,758Expenses: $22,798Starting Salary: $79,600Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWake Forest State University is the only college with three NCAA titles won in 1974, 1975, and 1986. Wake Forest is the Alma Mater of Arnold Palmer, one of the most influential athletes of all time in the sport of golf.
Wake Forest’s golf programs aggressively seek young golfers with talent. Top recruits are frequently given scholarships to draw in and keep talented athletes.
Wake Forest University’s Most Influential Golfers
- #1 Best Private Colleges in Oklahoma 2024 #1 Best Small Colleges in Oklahoma 2024 #1 Best Christian Colleges in Oklahoma 2025 #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
Tuition + fees
$47K
Acceptance
69%
Graduation
72%
Student body
4K
Median SAT/ACT
1214/25
Career Outlook for degree at University of Tulsa
Cost of Degree: $48,102Expenses: $18,086Starting Salary: $60,500Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryThe University of Tulsa houses one of the best college golf courses for university golf programs. In 1999 and 2014, Tulsa hosted the NCAA Women’s Golf Championship, and the city has also hosted many conference championships. Tulsa also offers competitive Golf scholarships and programs, especially for aspiring athletes in women’s golf.
University of Tulsa’s Most Influential Golfers
- #4 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Texas 2025 #3 Best Public Colleges in Texas 2025 #4 Best Research Universities in Texas 2024
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
66%
Graduation
63%
Student body
53K
Median SAT/ACT
1245/26
Career Outlook for degree at University of Houston
Cost of Degree: $9,711Expenses: $17,023Starting Salary: $60,600Cost Recoup Time: 9 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryThe University of Houston has won sixteen victories in the NCAA championships. And while they haven’t won any games since 1985, the university is still considered among the top golf colleges due to its past winnings. As just two-thirds of these teams have won more than once, Houston has triumphed eight times more frequently than most other universities.
The university’s most popular golfer is Nick Faldo, a famous television analyst and golf player who bagged the No. 1 spot on the Official World Golf Ranking for over 22 months.
University of Houston’s Most Influential Golfers
- Nick Faldo
- Butch Harmon
- Steve Elkington
- Anders Hansen
- Bill Rogers
- Blaine McCallister
- Phil Rodgers
- Kermit Zarley
- Keith Fergus
- Marty Fleckman
- Wade Ormsby
- Tom Jenkins
- Larry Beck
- Ed Fiori
- Warren Sye
- Zoran Zorkic
- Jim McLean
- Mike Standly
- Rocky Thompson
- Richard Crawford
- Homero Blancas
- Jacky Cupit
- Babe Hiskey
- Bobby Walzel
- Simon Robinson
- Steve Jurgensen
- Jaime Gomez
- Kirk Hanefeld
- Hal Underwood
- #4 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #4 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #4 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025 #4 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025
Tuition + fees
$12K
Acceptance
31%
Graduation
88%
Student body
55K
Median SAT/ACT
1365/29
Career Outlook for degree at University of Texas at Austin
Cost of Degree: $11,678Expenses: $19,894Starting Salary: $73,900Cost Recoup Time: 9 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryThe Texas Longhorns men’s golf team at the University of Texas at Austin has a long history in the sport, dating to their inaugural campaign in 1927. Since then, they have won back-to-back national championships in 1971 and 1972 and once more in 2012. Furthermore, their most recent victory was in 2022, the previous year! Jordan Spieth and Justin Leonard are two of the most famous golfers who attend UT at Austin.
University of Texas at Austin’s Most Influential Golfers
- Jordan Spieth
- Justin Leonard
- Jhonattan Vegas
- Mark Brooks
- Brandel Chamblee
- David Gossett
- Phil Blackmar
- Scottie Scheffler
- Betty Jameson
- Dylan Frittelli
- Charlotta Sörenstam
- Cody Gribble
- Brad Elder
- Omar Uresti
- Janice Olivencia
- Lisa Ferrero
- Kramer Hickok
- Wes Short Jr.
- Rik Massengale
- Cindy Figg-Currier
- Kaitlyn Papp
- Terry Dill
- Sophia Schubert
- Gary Webb
- Heather Bowie Young
- #13 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #15 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #25 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Georgia Ranked for Students in 2024
Tuition + fees
$12K
Acceptance
17%
Graduation
93%
Student body
52K
Median SAT/ACT
1460/33
Career Outlook for degree at Georgia Tech
Cost of Degree: $11,764Expenses: $16,760Starting Salary: $85,900Cost Recoup Time: 8 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryGeorgia Tech has won 8 ACC Championships, 14 straight years attaining a perfect APR score, with several professionals with a PGA Tour win. Three of GT’s most influential golfers include Bobby Jones, David Duval, and Stewart Cink.
Georgia Tech’s Most Influential Golfers
- #3 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers 2025 #18 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #20 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #20 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025
Tuition + fees
$13K
Acceptance
87%
Graduation
68%
Student body
54K
Median SAT/ACT
1255/25
Career Outlook for degree at University of Arizona
Cost of Degree: $13,277Expenses: $19,500Starting Salary: $56,000Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryThe University of Arizona Wildcats are led by one of the world’s leading coaches, Jim Anderson. Coach Jim was the person who led UA’s men’s golf team to unprecedented academic success and helped the team win conference championships.
The Wildcats also advanced to the NCAA Morgan Hill Regional, making it their sixth straight season to compete in the tournament. They have won three Pac-10/12 crowns, nine BIA titles, and one NCAA Championship.
University of Arizona’s Most Influential Golfers
- Annika Sörenstam
- Lorena Ochoa
- Natalie Gulbis
- Rory Sabbatini
- Ricky Barnes
- Paige Spiranac
- Jerry Foltz
- Dan Pohl
- Jason Gore
- Guan Tianlang
- Nate Lashley
- Don Pooley
- Derek Gillespie
- Christian Peña
- Marisa Baena
- Eric Meeks
- Haley Moore
- Lam Chih Bing
- Chris Nallen
- Alejandra Llaneza
- Leta Lindley
- Mike Springer
- Cassandra Kirkland
- Blaine Peffley
- Mike Cunning
University of Arizona’s Online Degrees
BA in Africana Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BAS in Administration of Justice
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Care, Health and Society
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Emergency Medical Services
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Accounting
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BAS in Cyber Operations
Degree Concentrations
- Engineering
- Defense & Forensics
- and Cyber Law & Policy
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Communication
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BAS in Early Childhood
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
Bachelor of General Studies in Economy and Industry
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Environmental Science
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
Bachelor of General Studies, in Arts, Media and Entertainment
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
Bachelor of General Studies in Global and Intercultural Understanding
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Global Media
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Government and Public Service
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Human Rights Practice
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BAS in Human Services
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Electrical and Computer Engineering
- Required Credits: 128
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Business Administration
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Geographic Information Systems Technology (GIST)
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Literacy, Learning and Leadership
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Information Science and ESociety
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BAS in Organizational Leadership
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Psychology
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Law
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Political Science
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BAS in Regional Commerce
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BAS in Intelligence and Information Operations
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in History
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Philosophy: Ethics
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Biology
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Nutritional Sciences
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Spanish
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
Bachelor of General Studies in Sports and Society
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Public Health
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Sustainable Built Environments
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
Bachelor of General Studies in Social Behavior and Human Understanding
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #2 Best Public Colleges in Oklahoma 2024 #2 Cheapest Colleges in Oklahoma 2025 #3 Best Grad Schools in Oklahoma 2024 #3 Best Research Universities in Oklahoma 2025
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
71%
Graduation
65%
Student body
27K
Median SAT/ACT
1130/23
Career Outlook for degree at Oklahoma State University–Stillwater
Cost of Degree: $10,110Expenses: $18,000Starting Salary: $55,300Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWith more NCAA championship winnings than any other men’s golf team, OSU Stillwater ranked highly among the top influential golf colleges in the United States. OSU has won eleven NCAA championships; three were in this century. Additionally, they have qualified for the NCAA Championships 74 times out of the past 75 years.
Oklahoma State University’s Most Influential Golfers
- Rickie Fowler
- Alex Norén
- Viktor Hovland
- Matthew Wolff
- Peter Uihlein
- Casey Wittenberg
- Michael Bradley
- Dave Eichelberger
- Caroline Hedwall
- Pernilla Lindberg
- Jordan Niebrugge
- Val Skinner
- Doug Tewell
- Mike Holder
- Mark Hayes
- Pablo Martín
- Willie Wood
- Talor Gooch
- Rafael Alarcón
- Caroline Masson
- Danny Edwards
- David Edwards
- Marnie McGuire
- Kris Cox
- Jonathan Moore
- Bob Dickson
- Edward Loar
- Brian Watts
- Terry Wilcox
- Philip Walton
More Oklahoma State University Stillwater Influential Golfers
Oklahoma State University–Stillwater’s Online Degrees
BS in Early Child Care And Development
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Elementary Education
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BSN in Nursing Rn To Bsn
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #4 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #24 Most Affordable Graduate Schools Ranked for 2025 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Florida 2025 #2 Best Public Colleges in Florida 2025
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
25%
Graduation
85%
Student body
51K
Median SAT/ACT
1290/28
Career Outlook for degree at Florida State University
Cost of Degree: $6,517Expenses: $20,296Starting Salary: $53,900Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryFlorida State University houses one of the most premium college golf courses in the country. FSU is the second state team to reach the NCAA Match Play Semifinals. With several competitive alum golfers, the most popular include Brooks Koepka.
Koepka is best known for his success in major championships, including the US Open and the PGA Championship. Since Curtis Strange, he became the first golfer to win back-to-back US Open titles in 2017 and 2018.
Florida State University’s Most Influential Golfers
- Brooks Koepka
- Paul Azinger
- Jonas Blixt
- Daniel Berger
- George McNeill
- Bob Duval
- Kenny Knox
- Drew Kittleson
- Hank Lebioda
- Jack Maguire
- Kris Tamulis
- Colleen Walker
- Harry Ellis
- Lisa Walters
- Nolan Henke
- Barb Bunkowsky
- Richie Karl
- Chase Seiffert
- Caroline Westrup
- Frida Kinhult
- Matilda Castren
- Stephen Keppler
- Bob Shave
- Ken Staton
- Jeremy Robinson
Florida State University’s Online Degrees
BA in Computer Science
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Computer Science
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Criminology
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Public Safety and Security
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #2 Online Colleges with the Most Generous Financial Aid in 2025 #2 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #3 15 Best Self-Paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #6 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers 2025
Tuition + fees
$6K
Acceptance
23%
Graduation
90%
Student body
63K
Median SAT/ACT
1395/30
Career Outlook for degree at University of Florida
Cost of Degree: $6,381Expenses: $16,220Starting Salary: $65,700Cost Recoup Time: 8 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryThe University of Florida Gator Golf Boosters is one of the reasons why UF is consistently ranked as one of the best colleges for aspiring golf players. In 1985 and 1986, the squad captured two NCAA Championships.
While the University of Florida has no recorded national championship wins since the 90s, it’s still considered among the best colleges for golf training. UF has over 40 professional golfers.
University of Florida’s Most Influential Golfers
- Camilo Villegas
- Mark Calcavecchia
- Chris DiMarco
- Andy North
- Brian Gay
- Doug Sanders
- Sandra Gal
- Tommy Aaron
- Manuel Villegas
- Chris Couch
- Steve Melnyk
- Maximilian Kieffer
- Nick Gilliam
- Naree Song
- Tyler McCumber
- Paula Martí
- Larry Rinker
- Page Dunlap
- Pat Bates
- Frank Beard
- Deb Richard
- Lisa Hall
- Phil Hancock
- Isabelle Lendl
- Dave Ragan
- Laurie Rinker
- Carlos Rodiles
- Woody Blackburn
- Karen Davies
- Laura Brown
- #1 Best Public Colleges in Nevada 2024 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Nevada 2024 #1 Best Grad Schools in Nevada 2024 #1 Best Research Universities in Nevada 2024
Tuition + fees
$9K
Acceptance
85%
Graduation
47%
Student body
35K
Median SAT/ACT
1110/21
Career Outlook for degree at University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Cost of Degree: $9,142Expenses: $17,362Starting Salary: $49,600Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryThe PGA Golf Management University Program at the University of Nevada Las Vegas is one of the most sought-after golf programs in the world. This program is designed to rigorously train students in both the game and business of golf as they pave their way to a bachelor’s degree. This, in addition to its eighth famous professional golfers, put UNLV on the list of the best colleges for training aspiring golf professionals.
University of Nevada Las Vegas’ Most Influential Golfers
University of Nevada, Las Vegas’s Online Degrees
BA in Anthropology
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Multidisciplinary Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Urban Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #14 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #15 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #15 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #18 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025
Tuition + fees
$63K
Acceptance
7%
Graduation
97%
Student body
27K
Median SAT/ACT
1530/34
Career Outlook for degree at Northwestern University
Cost of Degree: $65,997Expenses: $25,293Starting Salary: $93,400Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryThe men’s and women’s golf teams at Northwestern University have competed in NCAA Division I. The women’s golf program at Northwestern has had more success and recognition than the men’s program.
The Big Ten Conference, where the team competes, has several top golf programs. NU has eleven famous alumni professional golf players.
Northwestern University’s Most Influential Golfers
- #9 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #9 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #12 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #13 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025
Tuition + fees
$9K
Acceptance
17%
Graduation
91%
Student body
34K
Median SAT/ACT
1440/32
Career Outlook for degree at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Cost of Degree: $8,989Expenses: $17,120Starting Salary: $68,800Cost Recoup Time: 8 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryThe University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has a notable collegiate golf program that competes in NCAA Division I. The team is a member of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), which features several strong golf programs. One of the golf courses the teams utilize for drills and home games is the UNC Finley Golf Course, which is close to the campus.
Individual golfers from UNC have achieved success at the collegiate level, and the school has a history of competitive performances.
University of North Carolina’s Most Influential Golfers
- #12 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers 2025 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Alabama 2025 #1 Alabama's Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025 #1 Best Research Universities in Alabama 2024
Tuition + fees
$12K
Acceptance
80%
Graduation
73%
Student body
42K
Median SAT/ACT
1270/27
Career Outlook for degree at University of Alabama
Cost of Degree: $11,900Expenses: $21,482Starting Salary: $51,600Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryThe University of Alabama, which won five SEC Tournament Championships, is among the first colleges to win two NCAA championships. Alabama has both men’s and women’s golf teams. Thirteen players for the team known as the Crimson Tide have received twenty-one All-American honors.
While golf is male-dominated, UA provides several opportunities for aspiring female golfers. As a result, UA has several professional women’s golf players.
Justin Thomas is one of the school’s most famous golfers.
University of Alabama’s Most Influential Golfers
- Justin Thomas
- Jerry Pate
- Jason Bohn
- Bud Cauley
- Michael Thompson
- Steve Lowery
- Dicky Pride
- Brooke Pancake
- Stephanie Meadow
- Emma Talley
- Mårten Olander
- Leslie Spalding
- Camilla Lennarth
- Lee Rinker
- Robby Shelton
- Sofia Grönberg-Whitmore
- Jan-Are Larsen
- Bobby Wyatt
- Gavin Moynihan
- Alan Pate
- Lauren Stephenson
University of Alabama’s Online Degrees
BS in Food and Nutrition
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Early Childhood Education
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Hospitality Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Human Development and Family Studies
Degree Concentrations
- Child Life
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Human Environmental Sciences
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Human Environmental Sciences, Consumer Sciences
Degree Concentrations
- Consumer Affairs
- Family Financial Planning and Counseling
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS/BA in Interdisciplinary Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Criminology and Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Nursing
- Required Credits: 25/ 125
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Mechanical Engineering
- Required Credits: 128
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: None Reported
BS in Commerce and Business Administration
Degree Concentrations
- General Business
- Management
- Accounting
- Marketing
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Social Work
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: None Reported
Tuition + fees
$8K
Acceptance
86%
Graduation
50%
Student body
10K
Median SAT/ACT
1115/22
Career Outlook for degree at Augusta University
Cost of Degree: $8,122Expenses: $18,121Starting Salary: $70,600Cost Recoup Time: 8 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryAugusta University is among the best universities for students seeking training in golf at an affordable price.
One of its most popular golfers is Patrick Reed, an American Ryder Cup player with nine PGA Tour wins who recently joined LIV Golf. In addition to Reed’s personal achievements, Augusta’s college golf team has won two consecutive NCAA national championships in 2010 and 2011.
Augusta University’s Most Influential Golfers
- Patrick Reed
- Oliver Wilson
- Henrik Norlander
- Scott Jamieson
- Richard Johnson
- Jamie Elson
- David Park
- Taylor Smith
Augusta University’s Online Degrees
BS in Radiologic Sciences
Degree Concentrations
- Radiation Therapy
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: None Reported
- #14 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #1 Best Public Colleges in Georgia 2025 #2 Best Colleges in Georgia 2025 #2 Best Research Universities in Georgia 2025
Tuition + fees
$11K
Acceptance
43%
Graduation
88%
Student body
44K
Median SAT/ACT
1320/29
Career Outlook for degree at University of Georgia
Cost of Degree: $11,180Expenses: $16,926Starting Salary: $59,100Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWith two NCAA championship titles, UGA is a top-tier training ground for future professional golfers, thanks to its esteemed coach and the premier UGA golf course rivals the prestigious Yale golf course! With twenty-nine Conference Championships, the university’s top-performing sport is the men’s golf team.
Several known golfers attended UGA. However, the most successful one is Bubba Watson, with 14 professional victories, including two masters titles, that allowed him to peak at a global position of #2.
University of Georgia’s Most Influential Golfers
- Russell Henley
- Ryuji Imada
- Harris English
- Erik Compton
- Brendon Todd
- Hudson Swafford
- Billy Kratzert
- Vinny Giles
- Vicki Goetze
- Sepp Straka
- Scott Parel
- Richard Scott
- Bryden Macpherson
- Paul Claxton
- Lee McCoy
- Franklin Langham
- Matt Peterson
- Matt McQuillan
- Tommy Tolles
- Lyn Lott
- Allen Miller
- Terry Diehl
- Reilley Rankin
- Nanci Bowen
- Hugh Royer Jr.
- Adam Mitchell
- Cindy Schreyer
- Taylor Coutu
- Dicky Thompson
University of Georgia’s Online Degrees
BS in Education
Degree Concentrations
- Special Education
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #6 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #15 Most Affordable Graduate Schools Ranked for 2025 #1 Best Christian Colleges in Utah 2025 #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
Tuition + fees
$6K
Acceptance
67%
Graduation
79%
Student body
39K
Median SAT/ACT
1374/29
Career Outlook for degree at Brigham Young University
Cost of Degree: $6,496Expenses: $16,496Starting Salary: $71,500Cost Recoup Time: 7 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryThe Cougars men’s golf team won the NCAA Division I Championship in 1981 and 26 conference championships overall. The acclaimed golf course at Brigham Young University instructs students in the proper technique for playing the game and other parts of the business.
Brigham Young University’s Most Influential Golfers
- #3 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #3 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #3 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025 #3 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025
Tuition + fees
$13K
Acceptance
9%
Graduation
92%
Student body
49K
Career Outlook for degree at University of California, Los Angeles
Cost of Degree: $13,747Expenses: $24,284Starting Salary: $73,200Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryIn terms of guiding aspiring golf players, UCLA is among the best. UCLA became vastly known in the field thanks to its dedicated John Anderson Golf Club. The club’s major objective is to create a group of regular golfers at Anderson who play with one another regardless of their skill level.
UCLA’s Most Influential Golfers
- #10 Most Affordable Colleges in California 2025 #10 Best Public Colleges in California 2025 #16 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees 2025 #19 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees 2025
Tuition + fees
$8K
Acceptance
39%
Graduation
78%
Student body
39K
Career Outlook for degree at San Diego State University
Cost of Degree: $8,290Expenses: $25,782Starting Salary: $55,900Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOn behalf of San Diego State University, the San Diego State Aztecs men’s golf team plays in the NCAA’s Division I Mountain West Conference (MW). Men’s golf at San Diego State has advanced to more NCAA championships than any other athletic team, having done so 28 times in Division I.
San Diego State University’s Most Influential Golfers
- Xander Schauffele
- Gene Littler
- Scott Piercy
- Paige Spiranac
- Emilee Klein
- J. J. Spaun
- Lon Hinkle
- Gunn Yang
- Aaron Goldberg
- Greg Twiggs
- Barbara Barrow
- Johan Carlsson
- Kitrina Douglas
San Diego State University’s Online Degrees
BS in Business Administration
- Required Credits: 49-55
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 51-60
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Alabama 2025 #2 Alabama's Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025 #2 Best Research Universities in Alabama 2024 #2 Best Grad Schools in Alabama 2025
Tuition + fees
$12K
Acceptance
44%
Graduation
81%
Student body
34K
Median SAT/ACT
1300/27
Career Outlook for degree at Auburn University
Cost of Degree: $12,536Expenses: $22,762Starting Salary: $56,300Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryThe men’s and women’s golf teams at Auburn University have a track record of success in the NCAA Division I golf. Both teams have won several SEC titles and played in national NCAA competitions. The women’s golf program at Auburn has a history of producing outstanding golfers with prosperous professional careers.
Auburn University’s Most Influential Golfers
- Jason Dufner
- Patton Kizzire
- Gary Christian
- John Huston
- Roland Thatcher
- Danielle Downey
- Celeste Troche
- Blayne Barber
- Lee Williams
- Jovan Rebula
- Will Claxton
- Cydney Clanton
- Jimmy Green
- Iain Steel
- Buddy Gardner
- James Mason
Auburn University’s Online Degrees
BSBA in Accountancy
Degree Concentrations
- Second Degree
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BSBA in None
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #1 Best Private Colleges in South Carolina 2024 #2 Best Small Colleges in South Carolina 2025 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in South Carolina 2024 #5 Best Colleges in South Carolina 2025
Tuition + fees
$56K
Acceptance
67%
Graduation
85%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1357/29
Career Outlook for degree at Furman University
Cost of Degree: $58,312Expenses: $18,868Starting Salary: $59,700Cost Recoup Time: 19 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhile Furman University has a women’s golf team, the university is vastly known for having a solid men’s team. The men’s golf team at Furman has an excellent Southern Conference (SoCon) record and has won several SoCon titles. Furman’s men’s golf team has seen several golfers get All-American and All-Conference honors for their outstanding collegiate play.
Furman University’s Most Influential Golfers
- #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Florida 2025 #2 Best Small Colleges in Florida 2025 #3 Best Private Colleges in Florida 2025 #9 Best Colleges in Florida 2024
Tuition + fees
$56K
Acceptance
50%
Graduation
78%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1250/26
Career Outlook for degree at Rollins College
Cost of Degree: $58,300Expenses: $19,960Starting Salary: $53,100Cost Recoup Time: 20 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWith its men’s and women’s golf teams competing in NCAA Division II finals and regional competitions, Rollins is one of the top small college golf programs. Rollins College golf for both the men’s and women’s golf programs benefit from an accomplished coaching staff, convenient practice facilities, and a solid dedication to the game. One of its famous people in the industry is Pete Dye, the mad scientist of golf architecture.
Rollins College’s Most Influential Golfers
- #1 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #1 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #6 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #13 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025
Tuition + fees
$63K
Acceptance
6%
Graduation
97%
Student body
18K
Median SAT/ACT
1530/34
Career Outlook for degree at Duke University
Cost of Degree: $65,805Expenses: $21,267Starting Salary: $114,500Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryDuke’s challenging yet classically designed golf courses have made it one of the best college courses in the nation. Duke’s women’s golf team capped up an exceptional campaign in 2019 by winning the NCAA Championship. The Blue Devils recently defeated the Wake Forest Demon Deacons, claiming their seventh NCAA Championship overall as a team and Duke University’s 17th overall as an athletics organization.
Duke University’s Most Influential Golfers
- Kevin Streelman
- Stephanie Sparks
- Laetitia Beck
- Amanda Blumenherst
- Virada Nirapathpongporn
- Céline Boutier
- Leona Maguire
- Ryan Blaum
- Leif Olson
- Julian Suri
- Adam Long
- Liz Janangelo
- Jenny Chuasiriporn
- Bill Mallon
- Mina Harigae
- Kristina Tucker
- Jason Buha
- Lisa Maguire
- David Bronson Ingram
- Art Wall Jr.
- Dick Siderowf
- Sarah LeBrun Ingram
- Brinson Paolini
- Ana Belac
- Nate Smith
- Evelyn Orley
And for even more colleges with strong athletics programs, take a look at the Most Influential Colleges in Sports Today.