How to choose an educational program
There are many programs available to the aspiring golf course superintendent. Educational background, experience and professional aspirations are important considerations in determining the program that best fits your needs.
How to obtain GCSAA Class A Status
It takes special preparation to meet the challenges and reap the opportunities offered by a career in golf course management. Competition for the better golf course superintendent positions can be intense. Thus, a solid formal education is a worthwhile investment.
For a high school graduate the best path to consider is a four-year bachelor’s degree in agronomy, horticulture or turfgrass management. Students who earn these degrees stand a good chance of securing a job in golf course management. Furthermore, today’s trend is the higher the level of education achieved, the broader the opportunities and the better the chances for advancement.
For the individual with a college degree in another field, who has decided to change career paths, an associate or certificate program in turfgrass management may be the most appropriate way to go. However, you must decide for yourself which program suits your needs. Also, keep in mind your long-term personal goals in relation to GCSAA membership. Is becoming a Class A member or achieving certification status (CGCS) something you aspire to do? If so, your educational background will determine your timeline to meet that goal. See the Class A Eligibility requirement for more information.
Finally, whichever program you choose should include courses which will help you develop the business and management skills needed for a successful career in golf course management. These include business administration, finance, communications, personnel management and public relations courses. Students are encouraged to use electives to establish a strong background in business and communications which will complement your agronomic training. Competencies in these areas are essential to your professional development.
Choosing the right school
Choosing a school is an important decision that will greatly affect your future. Contact the schools that interest you. Obtain their program curricula and other relevant information and ask yourself these questions about each program:
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Program content. Golf course superintendents need a well-rounded education to handle the varied responsibilities that go with the job.
Typical curricula of turfgrass management programs
Overview of internship programs
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Program balance. Is the program well-balanced? Will it provide you with a broad range of educational experiences where you can learn specific skills to be successful in turfgrass management? Does the curriculum combine training in the biology of turfgrass and landscape plants, business management, personnel and communication and offer hands-on training experiences that parallel real job situations? Are student internships or cooperative work programs available?
Benefits of practical work experience
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Facilities. Does the school have complete modern teaching facilities? Do the library and resource centers provide a comprehensive offering of plant science and turfgrass management reference materials including industry periodicals and textbooks? Are the science labs and computer facilities well-furnished and up-to-date, and is there an adequate inventory of modern grounds maintenance equipment? Are there turf or plant science labs, field plots or an actual golf course where you can gain hands-on experience?
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Faculty. Does the faculty exhibit broad experience, a high level of professionalism and dedication to the education of the students? Does the student/faculty ratio provide for personalized attention to the development of each individual in the program? Talk to advisors and ask questions. Are they receptive to your needs and willing to work with you? Are you treated as an important asset to the program?
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Graduate placement. Does the school have employment assistance programs? How many graduates found employment on golf courses? How many job offers do graduates usually receive? Does the school track performance of its graduates? Will it provide names of graduates you can contact for reference?
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