University of Massachusetts Winter School for Turf Managers

The 'Massachusetts Agricultural College Winter Greenkeepers Class' circa 1930

Professor Lawrence S. Dickinson established the 'Winter School for Greenkeepers at Massachusetts Agricultural College' in 1927. The University of Massachusetts Winter School for Turf Managers, as the program is now known, was the first program of its kind and has run continuously with the exception of a three year hiatus during World War II. Internationally renowned and geographically diverse, the UMass Winter School has made an outstanding contribution the turf management profession. Many Winter School graduates hold positions as superintendents of prestigious golf courses, athletic fields, and other fine turf venues throughout the United States, Canada, South America, and Europe.

The perennial goal of the UMass Winter School for Turf Managers is to furnish turf managers with the concepts essential to the maintenance of high quality turf, while instilling a sense of environmental stewardship and fiscal responsibility. The dynamic curriculum is designed specifically for working professionals associated with the management of golf courses, athletic fields, parks, industrial grounds, municipal and private grounds, fine lawns and landscapes.

This comprehensive program is especially suited for experienced professionals who need to update their knowledge and skills, and who want to advance in the field of turf management, but cannot schedule a two or four-year program. Enrollment is limited, and close-knit classes offer the opportunity to form lasting relationships with peers and memories that will last a lifetime.

Students are immersed in a full-time program scheduled all day Monday through Friday for seven weeks. University of Massachusetts faculty along with distinguished guests teach a combination of classroom, lab, and discussion activities. Subjects covered include:

Principles of Turfgrass Management
Turfgrass Physiology
Disease Management
Insect Management
Weed Management
Turf Management Calculations

Personnel Supervision
Financial Management
Soils and Fertilizers
Arboriculture: Trees and Shrubs
Golf Course Design and Construction
Irrigation and Drainage

All students attend all courses, and a certificate is awarded to those who satisfactorily complete the course requirements. A high school diploma is required for admission to Winter School.

The next available edition of Winter School is scheduled for January-February, 2013:

Winter School students in the classroom For general information, contact:

Academic Programs - UMass Continuing & Professional Education
academicprograms@contined.umass.edu
Phone: 413-545-5202
Fax: 413-577-0864

For more information about the academic aspects of the program (material covered, instructors, class structure), contact:

Dr. Pat Vittum
Academic Coordinator for Winter School
pvittum@ent.umass.edu
Phone: 413-545-0268