| Turfgrass Science |
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Turfgrass Science…yes, you can make a living doing that! Turfgrass Science is the use of grasses to enhance the environment. Turf is important from a functional standpoint as it reduces glare, noise, air pollution, heat buildup and visual pollution. It also provides recreational benefits to outdoor sporting events, such as golf, football, baseball and soccer, and is used to create aesthetically attractive surroundings for homes, buildings and cities. The Turfgrass Industry is growing exponentially, offering graduates more and more career opportunities. Primary positions include golf course superintendents and assistants, athletic field manager, grounds maintenance managers, lawn care operators, and sod producers. The principles of biology, chemistry and physics provide the base upon which Turf Management programs are developed, so it is important to have a solid understanding of theses disciplines. Some of the course requirements include Turfgrass Management and Science, Turfgrass and Ornamental Insects, Turfgrass Diseases, Urban and Sports Turf Soils and Historical Perspectives on Golf Course Design and Management. At least one internship is required for graduation. Salary Trends The average annual salary for entry-level positions in Crop Science, Landscape Horticulture and Turfgrass Science is $34,000. Salaries will vary depending on location, the candidates skill, and previous job-related experience. High School Preparation Students interested in these majors should develop a high-school program emphasizing the sciences. Advanced placement courses in math and science are highly recommended. All freshman applicants are considered within a competitive admission process. The primary criteria for admission are the completion of the applicants high school college preparation program, performance in that program as indicated by class rank and/or grade-point average, and performance on either the ACT or SAT. Students with good academic backgrounds may receive credit for some courses by examination after enrolling at Ohio State. General Education Curriculum Requirements During the first year at Ohio State, students begin taking courses to satisfy the General Education Curriculum (GEC) requirements. The GEC assures that each student becomes acquainted with the basic areas of academic study. To satisfy the GEC requirements, credit hours must be completed from the following eight areas:
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