Are you a female high school student athlete with a passion for golf? Attending college on a golf scholarship can open doors to top-tier programs and coaches. Not to mention, playing in college could serve as a stepping stone to a professional career later down the line.
If you’re wondering which schools offer women’s golf scholarships, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll highlight some of the best colleges and universities for female golfers looking to play at the next level.
Firstly, let’s take a look at the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division 1 schools that actively recruit female golfers. Some notable programs include Duke University, Stanford University, the University of Southern California, and Wake Forest University. Additionally, other strong contenders include Vanderbilt University, the University of Florida, and the University of Texas at Austin.
Honorable mentions also go to NCAA Division II schools such as Rollins College and Barry University, along with NAIA powerhouses like Keiser University and Arizona Christian University.
Read on to learn more about each program and what they have to offer. Whether you’re just starting your search or narrowing down your choices, these schools are sure to give you a good idea of where to start!
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Top 5 Colleges for Women’s Golf Scholarships
Golf is a sport that offers countless opportunities for women to develop their skills and showcase their talents. As such, many colleges in the United States offer scholarships for women’s golf on both the Division I and II levels. Here are the top five colleges for women’s golf scholarships:
Stanford University
According to Golfweek, Stanford’s women’s golf program has won nine NCAA championships since 1982. This impressive record alone speaks volumes about the quality of education and athletic training offered at this renowned academic institution. In addition to being one of the most prestigious universities on the West Coast, Stanford also boasts exceptional facilities, including an extensive practice range and a state-of-the-art golf house.
“The players represent themselves well; they’re bright young women with a lot going for them,” says Anne Walker, head coach of the Stanford women’s golf team.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in athletics or academia, then enrolling at Stanford might be an excellent choice for you. Not only will you have access to outstanding resources and mentors, but you’ll also receive first-rate instruction in both golf and academics.
Duke University
Duke is another fantastic option for female golfers who want to hone their skills while earning a degree from a reputable university. The Blue Devils’ women’s golf program has won six NCAA Championships, and its roster of alumnae includes several successful LPGA veterans such as Brittany Altomare and Leona Maguire. Additionally, Duke maintains a 100% graduation rate for all scholarship athletes, so if you choose to attend Duke, you can rest assured that you’ll leave fully equipped for success in whatever path you pursue post-graduation.
“Duke has a great reputation academically and in women’s golf,” says former player Celine Boutier.”Playing with the girls on the team was very competitive, which made me better.”
Duke offers excellent academic programs across a wide variety of fields, including law, business, and medicine, so whether you plan to pursue a career in sports or another industry altogether, Duke is an excellent place to start.
University of Southern California
The USC Trojans have a storied tradition in both men’s and women’s golf, having won nine total national championships between the two. The women’s program has produced several notable alumnae as well, including Jennifer Rosales and Annie Park. In addition to its championship-caliber facilities, such as the Rancho Palos Verdes Golf Course, USC also places a strong emphasis on community service. Its players regularly volunteer at local elementary schools and retirement homes, demonstrating their commitment to giving back both on and off the golf course.
“I love that when we’re out there playing our hardest, we know what we’re doing helps others through charity work,” says Sophomore golfer Allisen Corpuz.
If you want to make a difference while pursuing your passion for golf, then USC might be the perfect fit. The Trojan Family network offers ample opportunities for post-graduation networking and job connections across industries.
University of Arizona
The University of Arizona women’s golf program boasts a legacy of excellence dating back decades. Notable alumnae include Hall of Famer Annika Sorenstam, who earned her degree from UA before embarking on a successful professional career. The Wildcats play home matches on one of the most picturesque courses in the country, the Sewailo Golf Club, which opened in 2014 and features breathtaking desert views and top-notch amenities.
“We’re known for our great weather; we can practice year-round,” says former Arizona golfer Erica Blasberg.
If you’re looking to combine natural beauty with athletic excellence, there’s no better place than the University of Arizona. In addition to its strong golf program, UA is also home to a thriving arts scene, excellent business programs, and world-class research opportunities.
University of Florida
Rounding out our list is the University of Florida women’s golf team, which has been a consistent power in the sport since the 1980s. The Gators have won two national championships and produced several LPGA stars, including Nancy Lopez and Isabelle Lendl. UF offers students a vibrant campus life, exciting sports games, and enriching academic programming. With one-on-one training sessions that help hone player skills and develop their strategy on-course, the university easily lands among colleges offering scholarships for Womenโs Golf most significantly.
“Playing golf at UF helped me become successful today,” said Paige MacKenzie ’06-WGOLF.”It gave me a platform and tested not just my physical abilities but also mental strength.”
If you want to surround yourself with like-minded student-athletes who are dedicated to achieving success both academically and athletically, then look no further than the University of Florida.
Division I Women’s Golf Programs
University of Alabama
The University of Alabama has a highly successful women’s golf program that consistently competes at the top level. The team boasts 7 NCAA national championships, including back-to-back wins in 2011 and 2012.
Beyond the impressive accolades, the Crimson Tide offer many opportunities for female golfers looking to earn scholarships. According to the NCAA, there are currently 6 full ride scholarships available per team, per year. These scholarships can cover tuition, room and board, books, and other expenses.
“Being part of such a successful program is a dream come true,” says current player Sarah Smith.”Not only do we have access to top-notch facilities and coaches, but we also get support off the course in terms of academics and personal development.”
University of California, Los Angeles
The UCLA Bruins women’s golf program is known for its dedication to both athletic success and academic achievement. In fact, the team had an overall GPA of 3.54 during the 2020-21 school year.
The university also offers a variety of scholarships to help female golfers pursue their dreams. In addition to athletic scholarships, UCLA provides need-based financial aid, merit-based scholarships, and outside scholarship resources.
“Playing for UCLA has given me the opportunity to grow not just as a golfer, but as a student and person,” says former player Patty Tavatanakit, who went on to win the 2021 ANA Inspiration major championship as a professional.”The support and resources available here are truly second to none.”
University of Georgia
The University of Georgia Bulldogs women’s golf team consistently ranks among the top competitors in the country. The team has won 2 national championships and produced multiple All-Americans.
For female golfers looking to earn scholarships, UGA provides a number of options including athletic scholarships, academic scholarships, and grant-in-aid opportunities. These awards can cover tuition, fees, room and board, books, and other expenses related to attending college.
“Being part of the Bulldog family has been an incredible experience,” says current player Jenny Kim.”Not only do we get the best coaching and facilities, but we also have access to resources that help us grow as individuals outside of golf.”
University of Texas
The University of Texas women’s golf program has a long history of success, with appearances in 32 NCAA Championships and multiple conference titles. The Longhorns prioritize recruiting and developing top talent in order to compete at the highest level of collegiate golf.
To support aspiring female golfers, UT offers numerous scholarship opportunities including athletic scholarships, academic scholarships, and external scholarships. These awards can provide full or partial coverage of tuition and fees, as well as supplemental funds for living expenses and travel costs associated with competition.
“Being part of such a respected program has been an honor,” says former player Kaitlyn Papp, who now competes on the LPGA Tour.”UT gave me the tools I needed to become a better golfer and a more well-rounded person.”
Division II Women’s Golf Programs
If you’re a woman with a passion for golf, then you’re in luck! There are plenty of Division II colleges and universities that offer women’s golf scholarships. In this article, we’ll focus on three such schools – Barry University, Florida Southern College, and Rollins College.
Barry University
Located in Miami, Florida, Barry University is known for its excellent academic programs as well as its athletics teams. The women’s golf team at Barry has won multiple conference championships and has had several individual players earn All-American honors.
“Being part of the Barry golf program is an amazing experience. The coaching staff is incredibly knowledgeable and supportive, and you have access to top-notch facilities and resources that help you improve your game.” – Lauren, former Barry University golfer
Notable alumni from the Barry women’s golf team include Sandra Changkija, who went on to become a professional golfer and competed on the LPGA Tour.
Florida Southern College
Another Florida-based school on our list is Florida Southern College in Lakeland. The women’s golf team at FSC has won record-setting 13 national championships and produced numerous All-American players over the years.
“Playing golf at Florida Southern was one of the best decisions I ever made. The competition is intense, the courses are challenging, but it all pays off when you see those championship banners hanging in the gym.” – Maria, former Florida Southern College golfer
The Florida Southern women’s golf team has also been recognized for exemplary academic achievement, receiving numerous NCAA All-Academic Team honors.
Rollins College
Last but not least, we have Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida. The Tars women’s golf team has consistently performed well in both conference and national competitions, winning three NCAA Division II Championships.
“Rollins offers a unique blend of academic rigor and athletic excellence that makes it the perfect place for any student-athlete. I loved being part of the women’s golf team and representing Rollins on and off the course.” – Rachel, former Rollins College golfer
Notable alumni from the Rollins women’s golf team include Peggy Kirk Bell, who went on to become a legendary golf instructor and was instrumental in founding the LPGA Tour.
So if you’re looking for a college or university where you can pursue your passion for golf while also receiving an excellent education, these three Division II programs are definitely worth considering!
NAIA Women’s Golf Programs
Keiser University
Keiser University is a private university located in Florida that offers women’s golf scholarships. The team competes in the Sun Conference and has had numerous successful seasons, including winning three consecutive NAIA National Championships from 2018-2020.
According to Assistant Coach Katie Mundy, “At Keiser, we offer scholarship opportunities for women who not only excel academically but also athletically on the golf course. We believe that our program provides a great opportunity for student-athletes looking for a challenging and rewarding experience both on and off the golf course.”
“Our goal at Keiser is to develop strong, driven individuals who are capable of achieving greatness on both the golf course and in life.” – Katie Mundy
Oklahoma City University
Oklahoma City University is another notable school that offers women’s golf scholarships. It is one of the most successful programs in the NAIA, with eleven national championships under its belt. The team competes in the Sooner Athletic Conference against other top schools.
Head Coach Marty McCauley believes that “OCU is the ideal place for female golfers who want to take their game to the next level. Our commitment to developing well-rounded student-athletes sets us apart from other programs.”
“We strive to create a supportive team environment that fosters growth, camaraderie, and success. Our graduates have gone on to play professionally, coach, and make significant contributions in their respective fields.” – Marty McCauley
SCAD Savannah
Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) is a unique institution that combines a rigorous academic curriculum with an equally impressive athletic program. SCAD offers women’s golf scholarships and competes in the Appalachian Athletic Conference.
Head Coach Amanda Workman emphasizes that “Our team is made up of talented individuals who have a passion for both golf and art. We are dedicated to helping our student-athletes achieve their goals academically, athletically, and creatively.”
“At SCAD, we celebrate individuality and creativity while still fostering a competitive spirit on the golf course. Our graduates go on to become leaders in the arts and beyond.” – Amanda Workman
William Carey University
William Carey University is located in Mississippi and offers women’s golf scholarships. The team competes in the Southern States Athletic Conference and has seen significant success in recent years, including two top-five finishes at the NAIA National Championships.
Coach Aaron Silverman believes that “William Carey is the perfect fit for female golfers who want to compete at a high level while also receiving a quality education. We take pride in developing young women into strong, confident leaders who are ready to make a difference in the world.”
“Our program is built on a foundation of hard work, dedication, and respect. We strive for excellence in everything we do, and it shows in the success of our players both on and off the course.” – Aaron Silverman
Women’s Golf Scholarships by State
California
With its mild climate and beautiful scenery, California is home to many colleges that offer outstanding women’s golf scholarships. Some of the most notable schools include Stanford University, Pepperdine University, and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).
In fact, according to Scholarship Stats, in 2019-2020 there were over 150 NCAA Division I women’s golf scholarships available in California alone.
Golf swings are not built overnight. It takes practice to build confidence; it takes confidence to swing fearlessly.” – Lexi Thompson, Professional Golfer
Florida
No state has a stronger tradition of collegiate golf than Florida. Students eager to study and play in this paradise can find a perfect match at universities like University of Florida, Rollins College, or Florida State University.
Scholarship Stats suggests that approximately 60% of women who received athletic aid for golf played on NCAA Division I teams during the 2019-2020 school year.
“I learned from golf that perseverance meant playing only one game at a time.” – Harriot Brookes, American Novelist
Texas
If everything is bigger in Texas, then the number of women’s golf scholarship opportunities certainly follows suit. Top-rated programs such as Southern Methodist University, Texas A&M University, and Baylor University are just a few of the institutions offering competitive awards.
The National Junior Collegiate Athletic Association (NJCAA) reports more than 170 junior college girls’ golf programs across the country, with strong representation in Texas.
“In golf, you get mad at yourself before anyone else can,” – Louis Oosthuizen, Professional Golfer
Arizona
The Grand Canyon State is a wonderful place for golf enthusiasts to consider pursuing higher education. Arizona is home to legendary courses such as TPC Scottsdale and Wigwam Golf Club, as well as universities like Arizona State University and Northern Arizona University which offer remarkable women’s golf scholarship opportunities.
Athletic Scholarships suggests that although only about 1% of high school student-athletes go on to compete in Division I golf teams, those who do are often rewarded with scholarships covering up to full tuition and fees.
“Golf is the closest game to the game we call life. You get bad breaks from good shots; you get good breaks from bad shots – but you have to play the ball where it lies.” – Bobby Jones, Founder of the Masters Tournament
Frequently Asked Questions
Which colleges offer the most women’s golf scholarships?
According to data from the NCAA, the top colleges offering the most women’s golf scholarships are Division I universities such as Stanford, Duke, and UCLA. However, Division II and III schools also offer scholarships for women’s golf, including Rollins College and Methodist University.
What criteria do colleges typically use to award women’s golf scholarships?
Colleges typically consider a variety of factors when awarding women’s golf scholarships. These may include a player’s skill level, tournament performance, academic record, and potential to contribute to the team’s success. Coaches may also consider a player’s attitude, work ethic, and ability to work well with others.
How competitive are women’s golf scholarships compared to other sports?
Compared to other sports, women’s golf scholarships can be highly competitive. While there are fewer scholarships available for women’s golf than for sports like basketball or soccer, the number of players competing for those scholarships is often smaller as well. This means that women’s golf scholarships can be highly sought after and difficult to obtain.
Are there any Division II or III colleges that offer women’s golf scholarships?
Yes, there are many Division II and III colleges that offer women’s golf scholarships. These schools may not offer as many scholarships as Division I universities, but they still provide financial assistance to talented golfers. Some examples of Division II and III schools that offer women’s golf scholarships include Barry University and Williams College.
What are some tips for women’s golfers looking to secure a scholarship?
Women’s golfers who are looking to secure a scholarship should focus on developing their skills and building a strong tournament record. They should also prioritize their academics and maintain a high GPA. Networking with college coaches and attending golf camps and showcases can also help golfers get noticed by recruiters. Finally, it’s important to be proactive and start the scholarship search process early.
What other financial aid options are available for women’s golfers who do not receive scholarships?
Women’s golfers who do not receive scholarships may still be eligible for other forms of financial aid, such as grants, loans, and work-study programs. They may also be able to apply for outside scholarships specifically for golfers or for women in sports. It’s important to research all available options and speak with financial aid counselors to determine the best course of action.