Golf Course Design Schools and Courses: How to Choose

Those who are interested in learning how to design a golf course may find training courses in a landscape architecture or a turfgrass science program. Programs are available at the undergraduate and graduate degree levels.

View 5 Popular Schools »

How to Select a Golf Course Design School

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, professional golf course designers and other landscape architects typically have at least a bachelor's degree in landscape architecture (www.bls.gov). Students may find classes in golf course design in landscape architecture programs, as well as turfgrass science programs.

While being fundamentally in the realm of landscape architecture, golf course design has its own nuances and requirements. Aspiring designers might look for programs with specific classes in golf course planning, as well as construction methods and styles for fairways, greens, sand traps and tees. Prospective students may consider schools that have their own golf courses or existing educational partnerships with local golf courses.

Many turfgrass science programs also have classes on golf course design and construction. Students who are interested in golf turf management in addition to design may choose to enroll in one of these programs. Classes might cover cultivation of turfgrass and various types of grasses used in the construction of golf courses.

Golf Course Design Program Overviews

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Landscape Architecture

A 4-year landscape architecture degree program typically combines the fields of ecology, environmental studies, urban studies and design. Many B.S. in Landscape Architecture programs offer coursework in golf course design, and students also may have the opportunity to create a golf course concept for their design portfolios.

Bachelor of Science in Turfgrass Science

Turfgrass management programs combine coursework in agricultural sciences, such as agronomy, soil science and plant pathology, with business management and applied economics. Such interdisciplinary degree programs usually include coursework in the fundamentals of golf course design and construction. Internship opportunities at turfgrass production companies or golf clubs may be required.

Master of Landscape Architecture

Students may choose to earn a Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA). The MLA is a professional degree that prepares students for licensure. In addition to coursework in landscape theory and design software, students may learn advanced techniques in landscape design studio courses. Graduate seminars and independent thesis research are usually required.

Show me popular schools

Related to Golf Course Design Schools and Courses: How to Choose

  • Related
  • Recently Updated
  • Popular
The Inclusive Design Research Centre Is Making Learning Better for Everyone

Have you ever thought about how a blind person might use the Internet? What about a deaf person, or someone without...

Interior Design: Diploma Summary

The student who has an eye for interior decorating may want to take a step further and pursue an interior design...

Fashion Design Teacher: Education Requirements and Career Info

Fashion design teachers use both their fashion sense and communication skills in their profession. As fashion...

Multimedia Design Careers: Job Options and Career Requirements

Careers in multimedia design use computers and other technologies to create audio and video productions that include...

Careers in Advertising Design: Job Options and Requirements

5 Popular Schools

  • Minimum eligibility requirements:
    • Must be 17 years of age or older
    School locations:
    • Online Learning

    Online Programs

    What is your highest level of education?

  • Minimum eligibility requirements:
    • Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
    School locations:
    • Online Learning
    • California (1 campus)

    Online and Classroom-Based Programs

    What is your highest level of education?

  • School locations:
    • Online Learning
    • Alabama (3 campuses)
    • Arkansas (1)
    • Arizona (3)
    • California (14)
    • Colorado (2)
    • Florida (12)
    • Georgia (3)
    • Iowa (2)
    • Idaho (1)
    • Illinois (3)
    • Indiana (5)
    • Kansas (2)
    • Kentucky (2)
    • Louisiana (2)
    • Massachusetts (2)
    • Maryland (1)
    • Michigan (6)
    • Minnesota (2)
    • Missouri (4)
    • Mississippi (1)
    • North Carolina (4)
    • Nebraska (1)
    • New Jersey (1)
    • New Mexico (1)
    • Nevada (2)
    • New York (3)
    • Ohio (9)
    • Oklahoma (2)
    • Oregon (2)
    • Pennsylvania (7)
    • South Carolina (4)
    • Tennessee (5)
    • Texas (8)
    • Utah (1)
    • Virginia (5)
    • Washington (3)
    • Wisconsin (4)
    • West Virginia (1)

    Online and Classroom-Based Programs

    • Bachelor
        • Bachelor in Construction
        • Bachelor in Construction Management
    • Associate
        • Associate in Computer Drafting and Design

    What year did you graduate from high school?

  • Minimum eligibility requirements:
    • Must be 18 years of age or older
    School locations:
    • Online Learning

    Distance Learning Programs

    What is your highest level of education?

  • School locations:
    • Online Learning
    • Arizona (2 campuses)
    • California (8)
    • Colorado (1)
    • Florida (4)
    • Georgia (1)
    • Illinois (3)
    • Indiana (1)
    • Kansas (1)
    • Massachusetts (1)
    • Michigan (2)
    • Minnesota (1)
    • Missouri (1)
    • North Carolina (2)
    • Nevada (1)
    • Ohio (1)
    • Oregon (1)
    • Pennsylvania (3)
    • South Carolina (1)
    • Tennessee (1)
    • Texas (5)
    • Utah (1)
    • Virginia (3)
    • Washington (1)
    • Wisconsin (1)

    Online and Classroom-Based Programs

    • Master
        • Master in Interior Design
    • Bachelor
        • Bachelor in Interior Design
    • Associate
        • Associate in Drafting Technology & Design
    • Non-Degree
        • Certificate in Residential Planning
        • Diploma in Residential Design
        • Diploma in Residential Interiors
        • Diploma in Residential Planning

    What is your highest level of education?

Other Schools:

Popular Schools

  • What is your age?

  • What is your highest level of education?

    • Bachelor in Construction
    • Bachelor in Construction Management
    • Associate in Computer Drafting and Design

    What year did you graduate from high school?

  • What is your age?

    • Master in Interior Design
    • Bachelor in Interior Design
    • Associate in Drafting Technology & Design
    • Certificate in Residential Planning

    What year did you graduate from high school?

Avg. Wages For Related Jobs

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics