Program Overview

Introduction to Turfgrass Science and Management

The University of Massachusetts Amherst offers a comprehensive program in Turfgrass Science and Management, preparing students for a career in sustainably managing golf courses, sport stadiums, and parks. This major integrates scientific theory with hands-on practical experience, covering essential topics such as grass and seed identification, turfgrass physiology, pest control, and equipment maintenance.

Program Overview

The Turfgrass Science and Management program provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to produce and curate grassed areas, including golf courses, home lawns, parks, and athletic surfaces. The program focuses on growing turfgrass that requires less water and chemicals and can adapt to climate change stressors. Students will also learn to manage a team of people and understand the fundamentals of a turf-based business.

Career Opportunities

Many graduates of the program find employment in the golf course and other sports turf industries. The lawn care industry also employs many graduates in jobs such as research, sales, and direct lawn maintenance.

Degree Options

The University of Massachusetts Amherst offers both a bachelor's degree and a two-year associate of science degree in Turfgrass Science and Management. The associate's degree includes an internship, providing students with field experience on their resume. Students can also specialize their bachelor's degree with a focus on business or science.

Research and Facilities

The University of Massachusetts Amherst is home to the longest-running turfgrass research center in the country, located just a few miles from the campus. This research center provides students with hands-on experience and access to state-of-the-art facilities. As a result, graduates of the program have a 100 percent job placement rate.

Program Highlights

• Integrated scientific theory and hands-on practical experience
• Essential topics such as grass and seed identification, turfgrass physiology, pest control, and equipment maintenance
• Focus on growing turfgrass that requires less water and chemicals and can adapt to climate change stressors
• Management of a team of people and understanding of the fundamentals of a turf-based business
• Career opportunities in the golf course and other sports turf industries, as well as the lawn care industry
• Bachelor's degree and two-year associate of science degree options
• Specialization options in business or science
• Access to the longest-running turfgrass research center in the country
• 100 percent job placement rate for graduates