Thomas Maxwell is one of only four PGA Members to have successfully completed The PGA’s new Top-up Degree Course. Open to those who have come through the Association’s Foundation Degree and DipHe course, it allows Members to top-up their qualification to a full degree.
Run in partners with the University of Birmingham, the two-year online course lets Members study part-time, so they can continue their day-to-day occupations.
Entry is by application and there are approximately 25 places available. Applications are assessed based upon previous performance of the Foundation Degree programme.
Thomas Maxwell, who is based at Wensum Valley Golf Club, is the first PGA Member to achieve a first-class full honours degree through the course.
What made you pursue The PGA’s ‘top-up degree’?
I wanted to build on the knowledge I gained during the PGA Foundation Degree. I am hoping to progress into a more senior management position as my career develops and I felt this qualification, along with the PGA Director of Golf qualification, would give me the best possible opportunity of succeeding with that goal.
The potential to gain a degree in a field I find extremely interesting and which was relevant to my current position and could be used later on in my career was the reason I signed up and completed the top up.
How did you apply and how did you find the application process?
I applied with The PGA directly - it was a smooth and easy process.
How did you find the course?
The course was very well run by both The PGA and the University of Birmingham. The regular online lectures, tutorials and access to support gave us all the best possible chance of being successful. The content of the modules was interesting and appropriate, I was able to focus on specific subjects within the course that I felt would be useful to me as a progress through my career.
How did you balance this part-time learning alongside your full-time job?
Personally, I get distracted very easily and for this reason I decided I would do all of my university work before I start my normal job. This involved getting up very early but was worth it in the end. This allowed me to still enjoy the things I did before taking on the top up but still devoting enough time to studying every week.
How did you manage distance learning?
I found distance learning very enjoyable, it was important to be disciplined with time management and meeting deadlines.
Which parts of the course did you find most valuable?
I found the dissertation project the most valuable part of the course. It gave me experience in researching, presenting relevant data in an appropriate manor.
How will having this full degree benefit your current job and your future career prospects?
I am looking to move into club management in the future and I felt The PGA’s Top-Up degree course has given me the perfect platform to make this move.
Why should other PGA Members be considering topping up their foundation degree to a full degree?
If you have the time, it is a fantastic opportunity.
