About the course

The course is delivered at University Centre Myerscough and awarded by the University of Central Lancashire. The course focuses on sportsturf science and management. It covers high levels of technical knowledge in science, management and technology across a range of sportsturf issues. Current research is applied to develop a strategic approach to the management of all sportsturf surface types, including the best sportsturf surfaces often associated with world class locations such as Wimbledon Tennis Club, Lords Cricket Ground, Ascot Race Course and Royal Birkdale Golf Club.

Subjects studied include plant and soil science, turf grasses: cultivation practices in sportsturf, construction, drainage, and irrigation and machinery management. In year three students undertake a major research project within a chosen specialist area of agronomy or sportsturf management.

The course also aims to develop transferable and personal skills that are important for employers at this level. These include communication, time management, work prioritisation, critical analysis and report writing. Successful completion of this course should provide opportunities within a wide and varied sportsturf industry, which requires both high levels of educational understanding and practical experience.

Applicants wishing to top-up from a Foundation Degree or HND into the final year of the BSc (Honours) course will need to demonstrate skills in research methods and plant science at Level 5 to enable them to progress smoothly onto the programme.

Learning Environment:

Learning activities on the course are diverse, including lectures, seminars, tutorials, practical sessions and workshops.

Students are expected to undertake extensive independent study and research to support lectures, seminars and assessments. Group work and group presentations form an important part of the course. Students will have access to specialist IT hardware and software, an on-line learning environment and reference facility.

Assessment:

Students will face a variety of assessments including a combination of coursework and unseen examinations. The coursework assessment methods will include technical reports, portfolios, group and individual presentations, laboratory/practical reports and extended project work. The students may be required to produce work in a range of formats, such as the production of leaflets or research posters.

Progression

On successful completion of the course, students may apply for masters level subjects either taught or by research at other institutions.

Careers

The course aims to provide a programme of Sportsturf related education which will enable degree holders to analyse key academic themes in the subject area and critically evaluate the wide range of management issues within different sectors of the industry, which will therefore prepare them for a successful career in the UK or overseas. The course is designed with the intention that its graduates will be able to function effectively at a managerial level within the Sportsturf industry. Modular content emphasises the importance of career development and planning throughout.

Examples of possible careers include:

• Sportsturf Agronomist/Consultant
• Head Groundsman
• Head Greenkeeper
• Golf Course Manager
• Local Authority Grounds Manager
• Lecturer/Researcher
• Industry Sales & Marketing Professional