The Field

The Golf Course Operations program prepares students specifically for career opportunities as future golf course superintendents and related fields that support the golf course industry. 

The Instructional Program

The SUNY Delhi Golf Course is an outstanding recreational and educational facility offering students an opportunity to learn first-hand maintenance and proper turf management techniques.

Delhi has developed a network with over 200 golf courses throughout the Northeast to assist students interested in summer internships. Internship opportunities vary each year, and a faculty recommendation is required.

Several industry-supported scholarships are available to assist second-year students in continuing their educations at Delhi.

Knowledge of the game of golf is a graduation requirement. Students can satisfy this requirement by taking PEDH 135 while enrolled in the program; by demonstrating previous experience, such as participation on a high school golf team; or by qualifying for the SUNY Delhi golf team.

Golf Course Operations

A.A.S. Degree

SUNY Curriculum Code:  1063

First Semester

Second Semester

Third Semester

Fourth Semester

Degree Requirement: 67 credit hours

Admission Requirements: Applicants must have a high school diploma and have completed Mathematics Course A and one year of biology (preferably Regents level or equivalent).

Program Objectives

A graduate of the Golf Course Operations A.A.S. program should be able to:

1. Demonstrate basic knowledge of botany. 
2. Understand and apply the basic principles and terminology used in the care, pruning, growth, propagation, growing media, soil amendments, and fertilization of plants. 
3. Demonstrate proficiency in the proper identification, terminology, and use of trees, shrubs, and groundcovers used in various Northeast landscapes. 
4. Exhibit a working knowledge of basic surveying techniques, the proper use of transits and levels, and the necessary drafting and drawing skills to communicate the data collected. 
5. Demonstrate knowledge of the diagnosis, repair, and operation of equipment used on golf courses.
6. Demonstrate a thorough understanding of soil: its genesis, composition, classification, physical and chemical characteristics, and how to test, correct, and implement proper soil management practices on golf courses. 
7. Demonstrate knowledge of the construction principles and materials used for decks, fences, patios, walks, and retaining walls. 
8. Display a thorough practical understanding of the daily operations on a golf course.
9. Properly identify, select, establish, and maintain major turf grasses used on golf courses.
10. Properly identify and manage turf pests found on golf courses.
11. Identify and control major weeds found on golf courses and in the surrounding landscape.
12. Understand basic concepts in plant pathology and entomology as they relate to turf grass and ornamental plants.
13. Describe, demonstrate, and apply the basic theories of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices used on golf courses.
14. Properly identify, select, calibrate, and safely apply pesticides used on golf courses. 
15. Design, select, install, and maintain irrigation systems on golf courses.
16. Demonstrate a thorough working knowledge of golf course design, construction, budgeting, mathematics, and management.
17. Properly select and maintain trees on golf courses.
18. Demonstrate a thorough knowledge of personnel management, planning, and presentation techniques used on golf courses.
19. Recognize and respond to emergencies by making appropriate decisions regarding first-aid care.