7 Reasons Why You Should Major in Turfgrass Management
By Bradley Turner, Keiser University College of Golf, Director of Online Golf Instruction, MBA, PGA
In the Fall 2023 semester, the Keiser University College of Golf is offering a new program, an Associate of Science degree in Turfgrass Management. This program will be offered in person at our beautiful campus in West Palm Beach, FL, and online for students who prefer a more flexible learning environment. The Turfgrass Management program aims to prepare students to assume leadership positions in the golf course maintenance and turfgrass industries. This article will share with you seven reasons why you should consider a career in turfgrass management.
1. It’s a Growing Industry
The golf industry has grown yearly in golfer participation for the past seven years. According to the leading authority in the business of golf, the National Golf Foundation (NGF) estimates that there are 25.6 million golfers in America. This represents an increase of 500,000 new golfers picking up the game in the past year. In addition, more women are participating in high-level amateur competitions than ever before, and junior golf has also been on the upswing for the last few years. The health of the golf industry is dependent upon people allocating their leisure time and their financial resources to play the game. According to the different metrics in the business of golf, today is a perfect time to choose a career in the industry.
2. You Get to Work Outside
If the thought of being strapped to a desk in an office cubicle brings up ideas of entrapment, you are not alone. On the other hand, if your office is mother nature, you will enjoy working every day outside the four walls of an office building. An early sunrise on the golf course is one of the more satisfying sights for those in love with the game. While you do not need to be an expert golfer to enjoy a career in turfgrass management, it can certainly help if you love the game. Understanding the nuances of golf and the importance of preparing the golf course for play each day is essential for success in the industry. The turfgrass management world is a perfect fit for those who like making things look beautiful and can use their hands and mind to solve problems.
3. Hiring Demand
The Golf Course Superintendent Association of America has about 19,000 members and associates. This association includes individuals such as the Head Green Superintendent, Assistant Green Superintendent, and Grounds Maintenance workers who are responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the golf course. Experts in the field of turfgrass management continue to be sought after by golf facility owners and operators. A concern voiced by many superintendents in the golf industry is the need for affordable and qualified help to manage the golf maintenance department. There is a demand for individuals with a college degree in turfgrass management to assume these hard-to-fill leadership roles.
4. Solid Income Potential
Experts in the field of turfgrass management continue to be sought after by golf facility owners and operators. Many individuals pursuing golf course maintenance opportunities do not have an educational background or knowledge of the industry. Consequently, their progression to more responsibility and better-paying positions is limited without additional education. According to the latest research by the Golf Course Superintendent Association of America (GCSAA), the average base salary for golf course superintendents in 2022 was $109,621. The average base pay of an assistant superintendent was $56,299. About 71% of green superintendents have a bachelor’s or associate degree.
5. Make a Difference in the Environmental Impact
The environmental impact of a golf course in the surrounding community can greatly influence those living there. The responsibility of a green superintendent is complex, with many stakeholders voicing their opinion on the desired condition of the golf course. The green superintendent needs to balance the expectations of golfers against the potential financial constraints of a tight budget. Managing water and fertilizers will continue to escalate in importance as state and federal regulators mandate water and chemical usage. Understanding where water sources exist for the golf course and abiding by usage regulations of fertilizers and pesticides are examples of maintenance practices that demonstrate positive environmental stewardship by a golf facility. Taking care of the environment is a worldwide concern, but it can start locally with trained employees taking care of their golf course and the surrounding community.
6. Plethora of Career Opportunities
Turfgrass management career opportunities go beyond the golf course, including sports field management, park and recreation opportunities, and private or community grounds maintenance services. Virtually every reasonable size city in America has all types of sporting fields to provide recreation opportunities for community members. While there is plenty of demand in the golf industry for individuals with a turfgrass management degree, think outside the box about all the properties in your community that need the help of a turfgrass expert. As for me, the golf course is the office complex I would prefer to work in, but there are many career opportunities that need educated turfgrass experts.
7. Career Satisfaction
As the saying goes, if you love what you do, you never have to work a day in your life. For most of us, even if we love our job, there is always work that needs to be done. I like the idea of finding purpose and value in a chosen career. Not everyone is a good fit for a select profession; finding that perfect career choice is difficult. However, when you find a career that brings excitement and satisfaction as you prepare for another Monday on the job, you will experience a high level of career satisfaction.
Learn more!
Want more tips? If you want to take your game to the next level, contact our team at Keiser University’s College of Golf & Sport Management today. With our dedication and experience, together, we can elevate your game to new heights. Give us a call today at 888-355-4465.
