The Ohio State University (OSU) is proud to offer a Turfgrass Science program. Turfgrass science (sometimes referred to as turfgrass management) is an integrated program that studies the grasses used to enhance our environment. Turf reduces glare, noise, air pollution, heat buildup and visual pollution. Turf provides recreational benefits to sporting events as well as creates aesthetically attractive surrounds for homes, buildings and cities. You’ll learn to manage and maintain turf as you gain knowledge in plant biology, soil and turfgrass science.
Please note that Turfgrass Science is a specialization of our Sustainable Plant Systems (SPS) major.
In Sustainable Plant Systems you’ll participate in hands-on-learning including labs and interactive activities in nearly every course. You’ll get to find & complete at least one internship (many students complete more) in order to gain first-hand experience in specialized areas. We’ve had students intern near & far from local nurseries to international sports teams. The internship possibilities & eventual career options are limitless. You’ll also be encouraged to participate in research, working one-on-one with faculty and presenting your work at college and university level forums.
Check out the SPS Program Learning Goals & Outcomes
- Sports Field Manager
- Golf Course Superintendent
- Landscape Designer
- Turf Sales Representative
- Horticulturalist
- Arborist
- Integrated Pest Management Manager
- Spray Technician
- Marketing Manager
- Irrigation Technician
- Professional Lawn Care Operator
- Sod Producer
- Commercial Grounds Maintenance Manager
- Turf Product Distributor
Ready for a once in a lifetime experience? Global Education is the opportunity to make the world your classroom. You'll get to travel with a diverse group of peers, navigate a new culture, build skills that will aid you in your career and gain a new perspective on the world! Scholarships and financial aid assistance are available to help put these opportunities within your reach.
The College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences offers over 1.5 million in scholarship dollars to its students each year. Learn more & apply
- Enrolled Autumn 2023 & later: Turfgrass Science
- Enrolled Autumn 2022: Turfgrass Science
- Enrolled Autumn 2021: Turfgrass Science
You can learn more about SPS curriculum for students enrolled prior to Autumn 2021 here
Student researchers are a valuable part of our department. Undergraduate students have a variety of opportunities to gain valuable hands-on research experience while learning new skills and techniques, which can be broadly applied across fields.
Learn about how you can be involved in undergraduate research
As an HCS undergraduate you'll get to complete at least one internship to gain specialized experience, learn what you enjoy (and don't) in a potential career & further build your network - all before you even graduate!
Whether you want to intern locally, visit another state, or even intern internationally - we can help you make that happen. International internships are possible in places such as Netherlands, UK or Australia and are made possible with the help of The Ohio Program (TOP).
To learn more about our internship requirements please contact Regina Vann Hickok
VISIT US
We understand that choosing your future college & major is a big decision. Let us help you make it easier with a personalized tour.