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Turfgrass Science Certificate

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About the Program

The Turfgrass Science Certificate is designed for students with an interest in plant pathology, entomology, weed and soil science, breeding, physiology, or the management of turfgrass species in aesthetically pleasing landscapes, athletic fields, golf courses, and parks. Opportunities in turfgrass science extend well beyond the world of sports to include jobs in lawn care, pest management, private consulting, irrigation design and installation, research, and sales and marketing within the green industry.

This certificate will appeal to students with an interest in environmental enhancement as well as the preservation of quality recreational areas. Students will gain an understanding of strategies for the identification and control of turfgrass pests, soil health, water and nutrient management, approaches to generating new varieties of turfgrass, and the development of turf management practices that are practical, environmentally sound, and sustainable.

Faculty within the Rutgers Turfgrass Program have extensive contacts throughout the green industry and can assist students to obtain paid summer internships and job placements domestically and abroad that can provide real-world work experience and employment opportunities after graduation. Students will also have an opportunity to apply for scholarships and participate in laboratory and field research.

Learning goals for the Turfgrass Science certificate align closely with program goals for the plant science undergraduate program (technical proficiency, context, communication, and critical thinking). Students completing program requirements will be able to:

  1. Identify and define the major species of turfgrass, their pests, and accompanying soil, water, and nutrient characteristics [technical proficiency];
  2. Define the general principles of entomology, pathology, weed science, and pest control within the context of a turfgrass ecosystem [context];
  3. Describe the concept of integrated pest management and how it applies to turfgrass systems [communication]; and
  4. Develop innovative turfgrass management strategies that are practical, environmentally sound, and sustainable [critical thinking].

Certificate Advisor

Photo: Joshua A. Honig

Dr. Josh Honig
Foran Hall, Rm 239
848-932-6281
Email: