An interested candidate will most likely need to complete an accredited program in golf course management, turf grass management, or a related science, as well as a significant amount of related experience, in order to become a golf course superintendent. This one-of-a-kind position can be taxing at times. It necessitates a thorough understanding of golf course operation as well as the ability to diagnose, treat, and prevent a variety of plant diseases.
A physician would be the superintendent of a golf course if it were a human body. When the health of a variety of vegetation species deteriorates, it is up to the superintendent to determine the best course of action. The knowledge required to do so, on the other hand, is not innate, and just as becoming a medical professional takes years of training, becoming a golf course superintendent takes even longer.
In general, the ideal candidate for the job has a wealth of relevant experience gained prior to, during, and after obtaining a degree. Working on the grounds crew of a golf course may be beneficial to a future superintendent early on. This experience not only improves a person’s understanding of golf course operations, but it also increases their marketability to potential schools. During the playable months, which vary greatly depending on location, this position is busiest. A golf course grounds crew’s work hours may be around the clock in the event of an emergency or a major event, but they are typically very early in the morning until early afternoon.
Working part-time while pursuing a degree in turf grass management or a related field or as an intern during the summer months between semesters is the best way to gain the experience needed to become a golf course superintendent. A young professional who aspires to be a golf course superintendent will benefit from working as an assistant superintendent after graduating from an accredited program. This is similar to climbing the corporate ladder in that a person does not automatically become a CEO after earning a business degree.
There are numerous programs that provide the opportunity to earn a relevant degree. Although these programs vary, the majority of them focus on chemistry, biology, plant pathology, and entomology. As these professionals must also be concerned with supervising staff and supplies, managing people or programs should most likely be included in such course work.