Students can make golf a significant part of their college experience without competing on varsity teams. Here are 10 of the best for the casual golfer, where scholars have affordable and easy access to enjoy the game.
James Madison University, Harrisonburg, Va.
One of the largest club programs in the country with 120 members. Handicaps range from +3 to 40, with a focus on community.
Middlebury College, Middlebury, Vt.
A four-year student membership for the on-campus course, Ralph Myhre, is just $450. Even with the short New England season, it’s quite a deal.
New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, N.M.
Students can play 18 holes for just $15 at the NMSU golf course. After 4 p.m., the rate drops to $9. Free club rentals and free student clinics throughout the year make it a beginner’s paradise.
Ohio University, Athens, Ohio
Women-only golf clubs are on the rise, and Ohio University has a strong one. All students can play the on-campus nine-holer unlimited for $75 per month.
Stanford University, Palo Alto, Calif.
Students can take the very popular golf classes for physical education credits. Members of the varsity golf teams have been known to drop in and assist.
Syracuse University, Syracuse, N.Y.
All undergraduates play for free with free club rentals at Drumlins Country Club’s public course, about a mile from campus, while school is in session.
University of Georgia, Athens, Ga.
The UGA Golf Course, home to a vibrant scene of club and intramural teams, offers students free club rentals and 18-hole afternoon rounds for $33.
University of Montana, Missoula, Mont.
The co-ed club team welcomes all abilities. In addition to the on-campus nine-hole course, club members play six other courses in Missoula and take day trips to top Montana tracks.
Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Va.
Play the on-campus nine-hole course for just $13. Or join the Pete Dye River Course, where the varsity teams practice, per semester. The cost is $310 in the spring or $415 in the fall.
Williams College, Williamstown, Mass.
Possibly the best combination of quality and affordability. Taconic Golf Club, designed by Wayne Stiles in 1927 and renovated by Gil Hanse in 2009, is ranked No. 78 on Golf Digest’s 100 Greatest Public Courses. Students can become members for just $150 per semester.
This article was originally published on golfdigest.com
