Turfgrass Management Co-op Information for Employers
Adding Value to Your Team
The Associate Diploma in Turfgrass Management (DTM) program is designed to provide students with the skills to succeed in the turfgrass industry. Practical and scientific study is combined with a required summer co-op work term to provide students with a wide range of practical experiences, knowledge and networking opportunities. This program prepares students for a variety of career opportunities including golf course management, lawn care, sports field management, parks management, landscaping, sod production and related supply and service industry positions.
University of Guelph Advantage
The DTM program at the University of Guelph is the only program of its kind in Ontario and is one of only two such programs nationally. Turfgrass management is a dynamic sector with opportunities across Canada and throughout the world. DTM is a focused curriculum that will provide students with the skills to succeed in this competitive industry. The program utilizes the collaborative resources of the University of Guelph faculty and staff, industry professionals and the grounds, workshop and laboratory facilities of the Guelph Turfgrass Institute. DTM students are typically passionate, hard-working, career-minded individuals who are interested in personal growth and advancement in the industry.
The co-op work term is scheduled after the second academic semester, providing a foundation on which to build the work experience.
Student Strengths
Knowledge
Knowledge of various tools and equipment for maintaining turfgrass systems. Knowledge of agronomic principles in relation to soils, fertilizer and pest control products.
Understanding
In-depth understanding of the turfgrass industry and its many disciplines. Solid understanding of player/stakeholder expectations and surface conditioning for various sports and recreational activities enjoyed on turfgrass.
Problem Solving
Strong capabilities in leadership, communication and problem solving.
Turfgrass Management Co-op Work Term Schedule
| YEAR | FALL | WINTER | SUMMER |
|---|---|---|---|
| ONE | Academic | Academic | Work |
| TWO | Academic | Academic |
Turfgrass Management Course Sequencing
Based on the 2023/24 Associate Diploma Calendar. Please see the current Associate Diploma Calendar for more information.
Fall
- Introduction to Co-operative Education
- The Turf Industry
- The Identification and Care of Landscape Plants in Turf Environments I
- Plant Biology
- Turf Equipment
- Turf Soil Principles
- Turf Communication Skills
Winter
- Turf Management I
- The Identification and Care of Landscape Plants in Turf Environments II
- Turf Irrigation and Drainage
- Computers and Math for Turf
- Landscape Design
- Turf Environment Management
Summer
Work Term One
Fall
- Turf Management II
- Current Turf Practices
- Turf Diseases
- Turf Insects and Weeds
- Landscape Construction
- 1 elective
Winter
- Turf Management III
- Design and Construction of Golf Courses and Sports Fields
- Turf Case Studies
- Human Resources Management
- Business and Finance for Turf
- 1 elective
About Us
The Experiential Learning Hub is home to experiential learning opportunities on and off-campus, co-op, career education and community engaged learning.