Bachelor of Applied Science - Agribusiness
The Bachelor of Applied Science (BASc) in Agribusiness at Olds...
Diploma in TurfGrass Management
Olds, Alberta
INTAKE: January
Program Overview
The Diploma in Turfgrass Management at Olds College of Agriculture & Technology, located in Olds, Alberta, is a specialized and industry-driven program designed for individuals passionate about the science, technology, and management of turfgrass systems. This program focuses on developing the skills required to manage high-quality turf surfaces used in sports fields, golf courses, parks, and recreational facilities. Students learn how to maintain healthy turf ecosystems through sustainable practices and innovative technologies. By combining scientific theory with extensive hands-on experience, the program equips learners with the technical and managerial expertise needed to meet the demands of modern turf management. Olds College’s commitment to applied learning and sustainability makes it a leader in training professionals for the global turfgrass industry.
Curriculum: The Diploma in Turfgrass Management features a well-balanced curriculum that integrates classroom instruction, fieldwork, and practical experience. Students study core subjects such as turfgrass science, soil fertility, pest and disease management, irrigation systems, and environmental sustainability. Additional coursework includes sports field design, golf course construction, equipment operation, and business management. Practical learning is emphasized through work placements and projects conducted on real turf facilities and at Olds College’s state-of-the-art turf research and demonstration sites. The program’s applied approach ensures students gain hands-on expertise in turf maintenance, resource efficiency, and the use of precision technology in turf management.
Research Focus: Research in the Turfgrass Management program at Olds College centers on sustainable turf practices, environmental conservation, and innovative turf maintenance technologies. The college’s research initiatives explore topics such as drought-resistant turf species, integrated pest management, water-use efficiency, and soil health improvement. Students have opportunities to engage in applied research projects at the Olds College Centre for Turfgrass Management, where real-world challenges are addressed through experimentation and data analysis. This research experience helps students understand the science behind sustainable turf management and prepares them to apply innovative solutions in the field.
Industry Engagement: The Diploma in Turfgrass Management program is strongly connected with industry leaders across Canada and internationally. Olds College collaborates with golf courses, sports facilities, municipalities, and landscape companies to provide students with valuable industry exposure. Through internships, site visits, and guest lectures, learners gain practical insights into current trends and technologies used in turfgrass management. These partnerships often lead to employment opportunities, mentorship, and real-world problem-solving experiences. The college’s close ties to professional organizations such as the Canadian Golf Superintendents Association (CGSA) ensure that the curriculum aligns with industry standards and expectations, enhancing graduate employability.
Global Perspective: The Diploma in Turfgrass Management at Olds College offers a global outlook, preparing students for diverse opportunities within the international turf industry. The program addresses global challenges such as water conservation, climate adaptation, and environmentally sustainable turf management. Students explore international best practices in sports turf and golf course maintenance, learning how different climates and cultural contexts influence turfgrass systems. This global awareness, combined with advanced technical skills, enables graduates to work confidently across various sectors—from North American golf courses to international sports facilities. By emphasizing innovation, sustainability, and professional excellence, Olds College equips its turfgrass management graduates to become leaders in maintaining world-class turf environments worldwide.
Location
Olds, Alberta
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
CAD 16500
Undergraduate Diploma Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate diploma programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 53% or above in their Grade 12 from a recognized institution.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 55 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
Olds College of Agriculture & Technology is dedicated to recognizing and rewarding the hard work, academic excellence, and community involvement of its international students. To make education more accessible and to encourage global talent, the college offers a variety of scholarships, bursaries, and awards designed to support international learners financially throughout their studies.
Olds College International Student Entrance Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to newly admitted international students who have demonstrated strong academic performance prior to joining Olds College. Applicants are evaluated based on their academic transcripts, leadership experience, and extracurricular achievements. The award not only helps reduce tuition costs but also motivates students to continue striving for excellence throughout their studies.
Continuing International Student Scholarship: For students who have successfully completed at least one semester at Olds College, the Continuing International Student Scholarship recognizes consistent academic achievement and active participation in campus life. This award encourages students to maintain high academic standards and remain engaged with the college community.
Financial Need Bursaries: To assist international students facing financial challenges, Olds College provides need-based bursaries that help cover tuition, books, and living expenses. Applicants are required to provide a short personal statement outlining their financial situation, academic goals, and how the bursary will support their success. These bursaries ensure that financial hardship does not limit access to quality education.
Graduates of the Diploma in Turfgrass Management at Olds College of Agriculture & Technology, located in Olds, Alberta, are highly skilled professionals prepared for a variety of dynamic and rewarding careers in the turf, sports, and landscape industries. With comprehensive training in turf science, environmental management, and advanced maintenance technologies, graduates are well-positioned to manage and maintain high-quality turf surfaces across golf courses, sports fields, recreational parks, and other green spaces.
Golf Course Superintendent: Oversee the daily operations of golf courses, including turf maintenance, irrigation management, pest control, and budgeting, ensuring optimal playing conditions and environmental sustainability.
Sports Field Manager: Manage turfgrass systems for sports complexes, stadiums, and athletic fields by maintaining surface quality, safety, and performance through effective maintenance and renovation practices.
Turfgrass Technician: Perform turf maintenance, soil testing, and equipment operation for golf courses, municipal parks, and sports facilities using precision turf management technologies.
Irrigation and Water Management Specialist: Design, install, and maintain efficient irrigation systems for turfgrass areas, focusing on water conservation, soil moisture monitoring, and sustainable water-use strategies.
Assistant Golf Course Superintendent: Support the head superintendent in daily golf course operations, supervising grounds crews, managing turf health, and coordinating maintenance schedules.
Parks and Recreation Grounds Manager: Oversee the maintenance and care of municipal parks, gardens, and open spaces, ensuring healthy and visually appealing turf areas for community recreation and enjoyment.
Turf Equipment and Sales Representative: Work with equipment manufacturers and suppliers to promote and sell turf maintenance machinery, fertilizers, and irrigation systems while providing technical support to clients.
Landscape Construction or Maintenance Supervisor: Manage landscape installation and maintenance projects, including turf establishment, soil preparation, and integration of sustainable design elements in commercial or residential projects.
Research and Development Technician (Turfgrass): Collaborate with universities, research institutions, or private companies to conduct experiments on new turfgrass varieties, pest management techniques, and eco-friendly turf care products.
Environmental or Sustainability Coordinator: Work with golf courses, municipalities, or sports organizations to implement environmentally responsible turf management programs that reduce chemical use, promote biodiversity, and conserve natural resources.
