We're Rooted in Applied Science

Turfgrass Science and Management is an applied science program that focuses on the production and maintenance of grassed areas, including home lawns, parks, golf courses, and other athletic surfaces. This concentration integrates scientific theory with practical experience and covers such topics as grass and seed identification, turfgrass culture and physiology, pest control, and equipment maintenance. Students in this concentration have the option of selecting a business management or a science focus. Many graduates find employment in the golf course industry, while others choose to specialize in sports turf management. The lawn care industry also employs many of our graduates in jobs as varied as research, sales, and direct lawn maintenance.

The Nation's Only Tennis Turf Research Program

Recently, top players from Longwood Cricket Club came out to live-test wear on grass courts we created. The testing involved playing for two hours on eight different species of grasses, after which our team of Turfgrass experts tested the level of wear on each of the species. See how Stockbridge and our Joseph Troll Turf Research Center are laying the groundwork for better tennis.

Industry-Based Scholarships Available

Scholarships are offered by many national & regional turfgrass organizations such as: Golf Course Superintendents Association of America, Professional Grounds Management Society, Scotts Company Scholars Program, Sports Turf Managers Association, Charles & Frances Osterman Scholarship, New England Sports Managers Association, and the Troll-Dickinson Scholarship.

Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) Membership

The UMass Turf Club is a Student Chapter of the GCSAA, and is open to all Stockbridge School and UMass Amherst students majoring in Turfgrass Management or Turfgrass Science and Management. Club activities include interacting with invited speakers and field trips to local golf courses, professional sports facilities, and regional turf conferences. Turf Club meets weekly during the academic year.  Membership provides the opportunity to network with potential employers. Learn more about the UMass Turf Club.

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Did you know...

Salaries for superintendents have doubled since the first biennial survey in 1993.

Aerial of building with green roof and Thanks Joe! written in the field

UMass alumni work at some of the top ranked golf courses in the United States.

Student on field

Five reasons why you should consider a career as a sports turf manager.