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Professional Certificate in Turfgrass Management

Offered by UCR University Extension Professional Studies

Overview

Learn the latest that every current and prospective manager of turfgrass facilities should know about the biology, chemistry, math, pesticides, irrigation, and soil fertility involved in everyday turfgrass management. Take advantage of experts who work in an area that is home to hundreds of golf courses, sports fields, cemeteries, and other turfgrass facilities. Explore the latest trends in agriculture and sustainability so you can make confident, informed decisions that will provide the best landscape, without breaking the budget or using resources inefficiently.

Designed For

Those who want to further their career in turfgrass management, including:

  • Lawn Care Specialists
  • Golf Course Managers
  • Athletic Field Managers
  • Vegetation and Cemetery Managers
  • Pesticide Technicians

What You'll Learn

  • Efficient and environmentally sensitive management practices for turfgrass facilities
  • Scientific aspects of turfgrass management
  • Physical and biological principles of plant processes
  • How to identify different turf species
  • Technical skills related to the design, maintenance and management of irrigation systems

What You Can Do With This Certificate

Positions are available all over the world in private firms or corporations, government or nonprofit organizations. They might include:

  • Turfgrass Managers
  • Building/Grounds Supervisor
  • Pesticide Technician
  • Lawn Care Specialist
  • Golf Course Superintendent

Earning the Certificate

Prior to enrolling, please ensure that you meet the following minimum requirements:

  • High school education or equivalent.
  • No prior college coursework is required.
  • Knowledge of basic mathematical and algebraic calculation, PC use and introductory botany is recommended.

Specialized Continuing Education Credit Available

Continuing education credit is available through the California Department of Pesticide Regulation for:

  • Foundations of Turfgrass Management
  • Turfgass Pests
  • Pesticide Use on Turfgrass and Ornamental Plants

Students seeking credit for select courses from one of the following agencies should contact the agency directly with approval requests:

  • Irrigation Association
  • International Society of Arboriculture Western Chapter
  • Golf Course Superintendents Association of America.

Course Schedule

Title Enrollment
Principles of Plant Growth (3 units)
PLS X115
Enroll
Turfgrass Species and Applications (3 units)
PLS X116
Math for Turfgrass and Landscape Managers (3 units)
MATH X485
Enroll
Foundations of Turfgrass Management (3 units)
PLS X415
Management Skills for Turfgrass and Landscape Managers (3 units)
PLS X417
Turfgrass Irrigation and Drainage (3 units)
PLS X420
Turfgrass Pests (3 units)
PLS X421
Pesticide Use on Turfgrass and Ornamental Plants (3 units)
PLS X421.5
Soil Fertility and Fertilizers (3 units)
PLS X422
Introduction to Chemistry for Environmental and Agricultural Professionals (3 units)
CHEM X401