Turfgrass Management Diploma at Olds College - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-07-10

Program overview

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Program overview

The Turfgrass Management Diploma at Olds College is designed for those looking to build a rewarding career in the turfgrass industry. This program emphasizes hands-on learning, allowing students to engage in practical experiences such as renovation, construction, irrigation, design, and water management. With a focus on collaboration with faculty experts, students will gain the necessary skills to thrive in this dynamic field. The program is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of turfgrass management, preparing graduates for various roles within the industry.

Program structure

The Turfgrass Management Diploma program spans a two-year period, providing students with a robust educational experience. The program includes:

Three Field Schools, totaling six months of practical experience.
Three paid internships, also totaling six months, allowing students to apply their skills in real-world settings.
Hands-on learning opportunities in a unique campus environment, featuring a 12,000 square foot Landscape Pavilion and computer-controlled greenhouses.

This structure ensures that students not only learn theoretical concepts but also gain valuable practical experience, making them well-prepared for the workforce upon graduation.

Featured Experiences

The Turfgrass Management Diploma program offers several unique experiences that enhance learning and professional development:

Hands-on construction of bunkers and irrigation systems in various weather conditions.
Field Schools that provide immersive learning experiences in turfgrass management.
Paid internships that allow students to gain industry experience while earning income.
Access to a living lab environment on campus, which includes advanced facilities for practical training.

These experiences are designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the turfgrass industry.

Career Options

Graduates of the Turfgrass Management Diploma can pursue a variety of career opportunities in Canada, including:

Superintendent: Oversee the maintenance and management of golf courses or sports fields, ensuring high-quality turf conditions.
Assistant Superintendent: Support the superintendent in daily operations and management tasks at larger turf facilities.
Foreperson in Municipalities: Manage turfgrass maintenance for public parks and recreational areas, ensuring community spaces are well-kept.
Foreperson in Parks and Recreation: Lead teams in maintaining turfgrass in recreational facilities, contributing to community enjoyment and safety.
Turfgrass Consultant: Provide expert advice to clients on turf management practices, helping them achieve optimal results in their turfgrass areas.

These roles highlight the diverse career paths available to graduates, showcasing the demand for skilled professionals in the turfgrass industry.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit Olds College official website

Last updated on 2025-07-10

Program overview

Academic Requirements

The Turfgrass Management Diploma program at Olds College has specific Academic Requirements that prospective students must meet to be considered for enrollment. Below are the key requirements:

Minimum of 50% or better in the following courses:
- English Language Arts 30-1 or 30-2
- Math 20-1 or 20-2
- Two of the following: Biology 20, Chemistry 20, Science 20, OR one of Biology 30, Chemistry 30, Science 30
Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.
For Academic Upgrading and High School Applicants:
- Proof of enrollment and any available interim/midterm marks must be submitted.
- Final marks must be submitted within one month following the completion of the course(s) and no later than one month prior to the program start date.
Alternate Admission Option:
- Applicants who have not completed one of the academic Academic Requirements may be considered under Alternate Admission Status.
- Required materials include:
  - Transcript(s) showing completed high school and post-secondary courses
  - Letter of Introduction and Intent detailing personal introduction, reasons for enrollment, career goals, and relevant experience
  - Resume of work history, extracurricular activities, and volunteer service for the last 5 years
  - Optional: Copies of any tickets and/or certificates (e.g., first aid, safety tickets)
  - Optional: Up to two letters of reference from employers or coaches
Transfer Options: Olds College has agreements with other educational institutions for transition to Olds College or to continue education elsewhere.
International Applicants: Olds College welcomes applications from international students and those who have completed high school outside of Canada. All noted Academic Requirements must still be met.

For any clarification and support regarding the admission process, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

The language of instruction at Olds College is English. Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate that they have completed at least three years of academic study conducted entirely in English.

Applicants who do not meet this requirement must demonstrate language proficiency through successful completion of an accepted English Language proficiency assessment dated within two years of application submission. All English Language Proficiency Assessments will be verified online by an Admission Officer.

Accepted English Language Proficiency Assessments include:

Duolingo English Test - score of at least 110
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) IBT - Internet-based test - overall score of no less than 80 with no academic section below 18
International English Language Testing System (IELTS - Academic Stream) - a score of 6.0 or higher in each band
Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL) Online - overall score of no less than 60, with no band below 50
Pearson Test of English (PTE) - score of at least 55 with no skill profile below 55
Oxford English Language Level Test (ELLT) - no band below 5, with an overall score of no less than 6

Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!