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I would describe the faculty as well educated, personable, and knowledgeable about the subject matter they are teaching.

David Wilkens

Industry Highlights

  • Between 200 and 300 golf courses are constructed each year in the United States and its territories.
  • There are approximately 16,000 high school, 2,200 college/university and 800 professional sports turf facilities in the United States.

Source: Department of Plant Sciences, North Dakota State University Division of Plant Sciences, University of Missouri

Turfgrass Science and Management (Associate in Science)

Advance Your Career with an Online Turfgrass Degree

Have turf maintenance experience? Penn State’s online Associate in Science in Turfgrass Science and Management can provide you with the ability to plan and implement projects, communicate effectively, conduct training programs, and manage finances. And the program gives you the flexibility to earn your degree while you continue to work and build skills for a successful career in turfgrass management.

Why a Turf Degree Online at Penn State

Legacy — Penn State became a leader in turfgrass education in 1929 when we launched one of the first turfgrass programs in the United States. As the first university to offer a two-year technical program specifically for golf course superintendents, and as the first to offer an undergraduate major in turfgrass science, we built a solid foundation for the turfgrass management courses that we offer today.

Unique Course Work — This 61-credit degree includes courses in biology, chemistry, and ethics, in addition to the core curriculum courses titled Turf and Ornamental Weed Control, Turfgrass Insect Pest Management, and Turfgrass Pesticides.

GCSAA Credits — the credits you receive for your Penn State turfgrass courses may be used toward Golf Course Superintendents Association of America education points to meet entry and/or renewal requirements for Class A and/or Certified Golf Course Superintendent (CGCS) status. In addition, GCSAA education points earned by members through attendance at the National GIS Education Conference and Golf Industry Show seminars may satisfy some requirements of the turfgrass undergraduate degrees or certificates. If you have questions about receiving these credits, please speak with your adviser.

Renowned Faculty — Dr. A.J. Turgeon directs all online instructional programs in turfgrass science and management through World Campus. He has written more than 300 publications, including the popular textbook Turfgrass Management, now in its ninth edition.

Who Should Apply

If you have an interest in — or have been working in--the turf industry, whether at a golf course, sports facility, or other venue, the Associate in Science in Turfgrass Science and Management can give you the skills and advantage you need to move your career forward.

Career Opportunities for Graduates

The Associate in Science in Turfgrass Science and Management was created for golf course and sports field professionals who want to earn a college degree. While completing the associate degree, you can earn credits while working toward advancement in a variety of areas, including:

  • construction specialist
  • golf superintendent/athletic field manager
  • irrigation specialist
  • landscape/grounds manager or foreman

Online Education at Penn State

Penn State has a history of 100+ years of distance education and more than a decade of experience in online learning. We strive to create an online learning environment that brings you as close to the face-to-face experience as possible. Learn more about the Penn State World Campus.