Program Overview
The Landscape and Turf Management program prepares you for a variety of landscape, grounds maintenance, and turf management professional careers. You will learn the science, technical, and managerial knowledge and skills necessary to be successful, including:
- Turfgrass growth and development
- Athletic field maintenance
- Construction safety
- Pesticide application and safety
- Landscape estimating and construction
- Irrigation systems
- Soil fertility and testing
Many students earn additional certifications as part of their coursework:
- Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship Commercial Pesticide Applicators License
- OSHA certification in construction safety
- Certified irrigation designer
- Certified concreate paver installer.
Educational diversity creates an added advantage for students. As a member of the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP), the program offers you an opportunity to compete in national collegiate landscape competitions.
Hands-On Learning Experiences
-
Utilize industry leading technology including precision turf management equipment, business management software, and GPS systems.
-
Work with professional quality supplies donated by industry partners such as landscape lighting and LED grow lights.
-
Field Trips: Opportunities to visit local golf courses and other businesses to experience their operation and gain first-hand knowledge of day-to-day business.
-
Community outreach opportunities to serve the community in various ways such as growing vegetables for the Northeast Iowa Food Bank and other projects that benefit the communities and school districts we serve.
-
Opportunities to volunteer at various PGA tournaments on the grounds crew.
-
Conferences and Workshops: Expand your knowledge and leadership skills at many regional and national conference groups, including the National Association of Landscape Professionals and the Iowa Turfgrass Institute that is composed of the Iowa Golf Course Superintendents Association, Iowa Sports Turf Managers Association, and Iowa Professional Lawn Care Association. You will also have the opportunity to participate in workshops and professional development activities through our membership and affiliation with Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) and Sports Turf Managers Association (STMA).
- Employment Experience: Gain 320 hours of real-world work experience ensuring you have the skills you need to succeed in your future career.
Accreditation
The program is accredited by the National Association of Landscape Professionals.
The association also provides an opportunity for exchanging ideas and educational materials in addition to providing opportunities for faculty professional development and networking.
Transfer Information
If you plan to transfer, work closely with a program advisor to ensure courses transfer and you meet program requirements.