Diploma in Horticulture Technology, Turf Management Specialization

Description

Turf management students participate in provincial and national industry conferences, establishing valuable networks of industry and alumni contacts that will continue to support their career development long after they graduate. On campus, students play a role in the management of the sports turf field lab with golf greens, tees, fairways, home lawns, and park-style lawn areas.

Graduates are managing golf courses in all parts of the province. Many have successful careers with municipal parks departments managing sports fields. In addition to turf management, the program includes tree care (arboriculture) and a number of turf management graduates are successful arborists.

Progression to a Degree Program

KPU Bachelor of Horticulture Science

Graduates of a KPU Horticulture Technology Diploma, with or without specialization, can pursue one of KPU's Bachelor of Horticulture Science degree programs, with a choice between the Major in Urban Ecosystems or the Major in Plant Health major. (Please refer to the Plant Health or Urban Ecosystems section of the Calendar for details.) Students can combine their diploma education with the enhanced horticulture science knowledge at the degree level and earn two credentials (Diploma and Degree). Those who wish to pursue this option should meet with the Faculty of Science and Horticulture Degree Advisor to discuss applying credit to one of these unique School of Horticulture degree programs.

KPU Bachelor of Business Administration

A successful career progression in horticulture often leads to a management role. The Horticulture Technology diploma programs include a foundation in business skills and graduates may be eligible to apply many program credits towards KPU's Bachelor of Business Administration in Entrepreneurial Leadership. Students can combine diploma-level education with enhanced business skills and earn two credentials (Diploma and Degree). Students who wish to pursue this option should meet with the Faculty of Science and Horticulture Degree Advisor to discuss course planning that would facilitate application to the School of Business degree program.

Who Studies Turf Management?

Students who wish to contribute to environmental and community well-being, engage in creative activities, own and operate their own business, or engage in hands-on work will enjoy horticulture.

Many students enter the Horticulture Technology Diploma to upgrade their skills or facilitate a career change. Faculty and staff are supportive and sensitive to the issues faced by students who embark on a post-secondary program after a significant period away from formal education.

Individuals with allergies to dust, pollen or plant products, or specific chemicals should be aware of the potential impact of practicing horticulture on their health. Moderate physical fitness and a healthy back are generally required for a successful career in horticulture.

Note: In addition to the Faculty Admission Requirements, students will be required to have completed a minimum of Mathematics 11 Foundations (with a minimum grade of C) or equivalent in order to complete the program without undertaking preparatory courses. Students are encouraged to speak with an Academic Advisor to plan course selection accordingly.

Faculty's website: kpu.ca/science

Department's website: kpu.ca/hort

Admission Requirements

Students pursuing a Diploma in Horticulture Technology must be admitted to the Faculty of Science & Horticulture.

Declaration Requirements

Students intending to graduate with Horticulture Technology diploma must declare the credential. At the time of declaration, the student must satisfy all of the following requirements:

  • In good academic standing with the University.
  • Completion of a minimum of 15 credits of undergraduate coursework.

Curricular Requirements

Students pursuing a Horticulture Technology Diploma with a Turf Management specialization must complete at least 63 credits. Students should be familiar with the basic computer applications of word processing and spreadsheets. If students require upgrading, they should take CBSY 1105.

Plan of Study Grid
Year 1Credits
HORT 1102 Botany for Horticulture 3
HORT 1104 Soils and Growing Media 3
HORT 1105 BC Pesticide Applicator Certification 1
HORT 1118 Basic Machinery Operation and Maintenance 3
HORT 1132 Turf Maintenance Operations 3
HORT 1155 Introduction To Plant Materials 3
HORT 1217 Foundations of Plant Health 3
HORT 1230 Sustainable Turf Management 3
HORT 1232 Sports Turf Management Practices 3
HORT 1240 Arboriculture I 3
Select one of the following: 3
Introduction to Professional Communication  
Introduction to University Writing 1  
 Credits31
Year 2
HORT 2302 Horticulture Work Experience 1
HORT 2306 Work Experience Report 1
HORT 2330 Turfgrass and Environmental Stress 3
HORT 2332 Environmental Turf Management 3
HORT 2333 Turfgrass Pest Management 3
HORT 2334 Irrigation, Drainage and Lighting 3
HORT 2432 Grounds Machinery Maintenance 3
HORT 2436 Golf Course Management 3
HORT 2437 Golf Course Irrigation Systems, Designs, And Operations 3
Select one of the following: 3
Supervisory Skills  
Organizational Behaviour 2  
Human Resources Management I  
Select one of the following: 3
Introductory Financial Accounting I 2  
Business Management in Horticulture  
Essentials of Management  
Select one of the following: 3
Introductory Financial Accounting II 2  
Accelerated Introductory Financial Accounting 2  
Principles of Microeconomics 2  
Landscape Construction  
Arboriculture II  
Introduction to Marketing 2  
 Credits32
 Total Credits63
1

Applicable to the Bachelor of Horticulture Science, Major in Plant Health or Major in Urban Ecosystems, and the Bachelor of Business Administration in Entrepreneurial Leadership.

2

Applicable to the the Bachelor of Business Administration in Entrepreneurial Leadership.

Credential Awarded

Upon successful completion of this program, students are eligible to receive a Diploma in Horticulture Technology Turf Management Specialization.

This online version of the Kwantlen Polytechnic University Calendar is the official version of the University Calendar. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy at the time of publication, KPU reserves the right to make any corrections in the contents and provisions of this calendar without notice. In addition, the University reserves the right to cancel, add, or revise contents or change fees at any time without notice. To report errors or omissions, or send comments or suggestions, please email Calendar.Editor@kpu.ca

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