Agree it helps to be a member of the lucky sperm club. It also helps if you manage to land yourself an apprenticeship with the biggest names in the biz, although it's no guarantee of success going out on your own later. But most apprenctices seem to go on to similar careers as their mentors.
As to the specific questions, my answers are probably dated because I really haven't hired anyone in years, but this is the advice I often give:
What major is desired? Landscape Architecture I assume? If not please expound on others. I still think this is most valuable, especially if you tailor your classes to gca specifics, including surveying, soils, turf, business writing, aerial photos. Related summer jobs at golf courses or landscape contractors are also important.[/size]Is there a need for a Masters Degree in LA? No, I believe most of the traditional LA skills are taught as part of a BLA program, and Masters cover some more esoteric topics usually not needed for traditional practices.[/size]Best university programs in terms of rigor and/or reputation? I suspect that changes over time, as faculty, funding, emphasis, etc. change gradually at all universities. I can tell you that down here in Texas, I have had best luck with Texas A&M aggies, but I truly think that is mostly due to the culture of the university and the fact that they draw high quality applicants. Some other landscape architecture schools, maybe known more for partying, don't seem to produce as disciplined graduates, as a rule, but there are obviously exceptions.[/size]How important is the university for job placement/career? I suspect it varies depending on what type of firm you are looking at. One like mine that still puts out plans would obviously look at that LA training, CAD classes, etc.[/size]What type of internships with GCA's are recommended for college programs? I Answered above, but if you can't find a golf specific internship, other avenues may suffice, i.e., landscape construction or design, work at a garden center, survey crew, golf course maintenance and tell the boos you want to be involved in any construction project that comes up over the summer. I do tell aspiring gca's that you should try to find an apprentice job in the field you really want to be in. Specifically, while it would seem a good start in the biz, very few who go work for LUI or Wadsworth transition over to design, they tend to stay stuck in construction, although that wouldn't really stop a really intrepid individual. [/size][/size]Is it possible for break in without a college degree and if so what type of path would that look like?[/color][/size]What professional societies are recommended to join/aspire to along one's career path (not looking for controversy here)? Most younger designers have no real professional societies to join, maybe ASLA, if a landscape architect. There are also Facebook groups devoted to golf course construction now. And, many will go to the annual GCSAA shows and hang around for a few related seminars of interest, but mostly, to interact with as many in the business as possible in hopes of getting a job. [/size][/size]I also tell aspirants to keep applying. Maybe other gca's here have a different experience, but I think most small firms can have no openings, and a day later, a few projects appear by complete surprise, and more hands are needed.