The USGA is a mission-based golf organization whose purpose is to unify the golf community through handicapping and grassroots programs; to showcase the game’s best talent through the U.S. Open, U.S. Women’s Open and 13 other national championships and our museum; to provide unbiased global governance with The R&A through the playing, equipment and Amateur Status rules; and to advance issues important to golf’s future, with a focus on driving sustainability, accessibility and inclusion. As a nonprofit association, our work and our team are driven to act for the good of the game. The USGA’s headquarters are located in Liberty Corner, NJ, with a recently opened campus in Pinehurst, NC. For more, visit usga.org.
Duration: 3+ Months (May/June – July/August 2026)
Location: Varies by placement (CA, FL, NJ, NC, PA, TX)
Compensation: $15–$25/hr + Housing & Travel Support
Recent studies show that the game of golf employs 1.6 million people in the U.S. but only a small fraction are held by those from underrepresented communities. As part of the ongoing effort to address those imbalances and foster a more inclusive game, over the last 5 years, the USGA has hired students to participate in Pathways Discover at the U.S. Open Championship.
The USGA is thrilled to introduce Pathways Launch, a dynamic 3+month internship program designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders in golf by placing talented individuals with prominent organizations across the industry, while fostering a cohesive and supportive community of peers. As a newly designed opportunity offered under Make Golf Your Thing, this unique experience welcomes students from a wide range of backgrounds and encourages you to apply, particularly if you:
- Are interested in pursuing a career in golf or the broader sports, hospitality and entertainment industries
- Have an appetite for future leadership roles
- Are open to a variety of experiences in order to broaden your skillset and network
- Are an undergraduate upperclassmen or graduate student
Through collaboration with participating organizations, Pathways Launch focuses on hard skills, mentorship, and career and leadership preparation. Students will have the opportunity to be placed at one of the following participating organizations:
- Callaway Golf
- Dick’s Sporting Goods - Golf Galaxy
- Golf Pride
- Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA)
- Pebble Beach Resort
- Pinehurst Resorts
- PGA of America
- PGA Tour
- United States Golf Association (USGA)
Interns may be assigned to roles in the following areas, though this is not an exhaustive list:
- Marketing
- Business Operations
- Golf Operations
- Finance
- Data Analytics
- Supply Chain Management
- Communications
- Ticketing and Event Operations
- Merchandise & Licensing
Key Dates and Details
- Application Period: August 20th – November 14th, 2025. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
- In-Person Recruiting Summit: Friday, January 16-Sunday, January 18, 2026 at the USGA Headquarters in Liberty Corner, NJ
- Internship Selection: All offers will be extended by Friday, January 30th.
- Internship Dates/Duration: Will vary depending on placement. Generally, taking place May/June – July/August.
- In-Person Program Kick Off: Will take place at the 2026 U.S. Women’s Open at Riviera Country Club in Los Angeles (June 4-7, 2026)
- Internship Location: Will vary depending on placement. Participating organizations are based in California, Florida, New Jersey, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Texas. Applicants from outside of these areas are welcomed.
- Compensation: Rates will vary depending on placement at participating organizations, ranging from $15-$25/hr. Housing and travel support will be provided to all Pathways Launch interns.
The USGA is a leader in the global golf industry, whose purpose is to unify the game, showcase the best talent in golf, provide impartial governance and advance our impact on critical issues such as sustainability, accessibility and inclusion.
Components of the program will come to life through the following:
- Professional Development Sessions
- Designated Mentorship
- Access to Leadership
- Facilitated Networking Opportunities
- Project Completion
- Coaching
What you bring to the USGA:
- Demonstrated maturity, dependability, integrity, and initiative to learn.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to positively contribute to a work environment that emphasizes teamwork, respect for differences, and accepting and giving constructive feedback.
- Enrolled in an undergraduate (rising junior or above) or graduate program at an accredited college or university.
- Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in the Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
- No prior experience working in golf is required for most opportunities, however, a demonstration of golf knowledge and strong interest in working in sports is preferred.
As part of the application process, you’ll be asked to answer 10 open-ended questions. These are designed to help us get to know you—your ideas, your perspective, and your voice. We strongly encourage you to answer honestly and in your own words, without the use of AI tools. We’re not looking for “perfect” answers—we’re looking for your authentic thoughts and experiences.
The USGA is an equal opportunity employer. Our organization believes we are stronger by embracing our diverse backgrounds and perspectives, promoting equity so all teammates can excel and grow in their careers, and fostering experiences to drive inclusion in our workplace and game. Golf is a game for everyone, and you are always welcome.
