PLANT AND LANDSCAPE SYSTEMS MAJOR
Turfgrass Science and Management Option
The turfgrass science and management option will prepare you to manage turfgrass landscapes and businesses in the golf course, sports turf, sod, park, and lawn care industries. This option includes courses in soils, turfgrass physiology and management, and pest management. You will gain skills and knowledge needed to develop and implement resilient strategies for production and management of grassed areas.
Career Opportunities
The turfgrass science and management industry is a part of one of the fastest growing segments of the nation’s agricultural economy, often experiencing growth and expansion even during recessionary periods. With an option in turfgrass science and management, careers are possible as a(n):
- Golf course superintendent on a private, public, or resort golf course
- Sports turfgrass manager on baseball, softball, soccer, or football fields for city parks departments or high school, college, or professional sports teams
- Sales or product manager working with irrigation, sod, seed, fertilizer, and chemical products
- Business owner, contractor, or manager working in lawncare
- Educator in different venues such as Extension, community colleges, and universities
- Turfgrass researcher in areas such as plant breeding, selection, use, and management
Internships
Internships are key components of your academic experience. They allow you to explore different areas of horticulture, make connections with future employers, and experience a professional work environment. Two internships are required for graduation. Turfgrass Science and Management internships are available across Nebraska and the United States. Recent student internships include:
- Ballyneal Golf Club
- Cypress Point Club
- Graff's Turf
- Jim Ager Golf Course
- Pine Valley Golf Club
- Prairie Dunes Country Club
- Sand Hills Golf Club
- Tiburon Golf Club
- TPC Colorado
- The Prairie Club
- Wilderness Ridge Country Club
