MSc Sustainable Sportsturf Management On Line

About the course

The course is delivered at University Centre Myerscough and awarded by the University of Central Lancashire. This ground-breaking course provides a unique opportunity to gain a postgraduate qualification for sportsturf managers and consultants who wish to engage with other professionals in the landscape, sports, planning and greenspace industries.

The management of surfaces for sport is a significant global industry utilising diverse areas of land within both urbanised and rural landscapes. Managers of sportsturf surfaces have a responsibility to manage these facilities for both the sport concerned and also be cognisant of resource and environmental concerns. Sportsturf surfaces offer wide ranging economic, social and environmental opportunities when managed appropriately but face many challenges in the 21st century if they are to survive in a highly competitive social and recreational market place. Competing forms of leisure, economic factors and other constraints continue to impact on sport globally. Sportsturf managers have to be mindful of these factors, which directly impact on the resources needed to sustain surfaces and meet customer expectations.

This part-time MSc Sustainable Sportsturf Management, awarded from the University of Central Lancashire, is an innovative course which encompasses a multidisciplinary approach to contemporary sportsturf management. The course aims to develop students’ critical and analytical thinking to enable implementation of effective and efficient management practices. The MSc will encourage debate and critical evaluation within an environment that develops holistic understanding of international issues.

Please note that this course may run as a roll-on, roll-off programme, so new students may start with either ‘Year 1’ or ‘Year 2’ modules, depending upon their year of entry.

Year 1

Theoretical Perspectives of Sustainability

In this module you will develop your knowledge and understanding to define sustainability. This will be used to investigate the impact of practice on global resources and the environment. You will critically appraise economic, social and environmental issues in the context of sportsturf management.

Management of Performance and Quality

In order to successfully manage a sportsturf surfaces in a challenging economic climate you will need to understand customer expectations and demands. This module will develop an understanding of both objective and subjective quality criteria for sportsturf surfaces to allow you to provide positive customer experiences.

Turfgrass Agronomic Research and Development

Research into agronomy, technology and management is of critical importance if the industry is to continue to adapt to modern pressures and challenges worldwide. This module will explore the research path including laboratory to field trials and, ultimately, application into practice. Case studies will be explored where research and development has made or could make a significant impact to management practice.

Year 2

Resource Efficiency and Management

This module will assess the impact that resource management can have on the overall success of the business. Managing physical, financial and human resources efficiently will allow responsible use of finite resources whilst maximising quality output and minimising waste.

Policy and Strategic Planning for Outdoor Recreational Surfaces

Management practices can have a significant impact on both the landscape and the fundamental design of sportsturf provision. Within this module you will review the importance of managing and planning structural and physical developments for sportsturf surfaces through the implementation of a policy document.

Research Methodology and Design

This module provides students with the essential personal, organisational, management, theoretical and statistical skills needed to work at Postgraduate Level. It will explore research philosophies, research process and design and the process of questionnaire development and design. The module will develop skills in advanced data organisation, presentation, dissemination and problem solving.

Year 3

Masters Dissertation

The dissertation is a triple module and allows students to design and conduct a substantial piece of independent, supervised research related to the field of study. The dissertation is an independent piece of academic work which allows the student to identify and work in an area of interest to them and manage the research process to agreed deadlines.

Entry requirements & additional information

Entry requirements

Applications are sought from individuals possessing a minimum of Lower Second Class (2.2) Honours Degree (or equivalent) in a related discipline.

Candidates not possessing an Honours Degree at the above grade but with relevant professional qualifications and experience will be welcomed. All non-standard applicants may be interviewed to assess suitability for the course.

Career experience plus evidence of study skills may also be considered. Consideration will be given to non-traditional qualifications and relevant work experience. Applicants are encouraged to produce evidence of their potential to benefit from the course. Applicants who believe they may be eligible for Accreditation of Prior Experience/Learning (APE/L) for certain modules will be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to have an English qualification to IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.

All offers may be subject to successful interview.

This course is designed for those employed in the Sportsturf Industry. Ideally you will be employed fulltime on a golf course, sports ground, or other site where the maintenance or management of playing surfaces used for sport is your primary role, for example a public school or local authority.

The course would also suit those employed in the sportsturf supply industries or those in agronomy/sportsturf construction. You must have access to a golf course or sports facility in order to complete the set coursework. Part-time or voluntary work is feasible, but this will need to be organised by yourself and in place before the course starts. Those working in closely related fields for example amenity horticulture or landscape management are welcome to apply. For any assistance on this matter you are invited to apply or contact the college to arrange a discussion with the course tutor.

Learning and assessment

This course is ideally suited to people working within the sportsturf, golf course and amenity landscape industries that are either in or aspire to management positions. The course would also be of interest to individuals who have experience or knowledge in sustainability issues.

Our virtual learning platform (accessed via the internet) will provide learning resources, guidance and collaborative links to all students irrespective of their location. Students will have the opportunity to participate in planned workshops and seminars to include discussion groups. They will receive support from a personal tutor but will also be expected to demonstrate autonomy for their own learning.

Modules are assessed using a variety of methods, including written reports, essays, literature reviews, dissertation, research proposal, presentations.

Progression

On successful completion of the course, students may apply for PhD by Research.

Careers

Sportsturf Facility Manager, Golf Course Manager, Stadia Manager Consultant, Agronomist, Education, Research, Management position within leading industry bodies and organisations.

Special requirements

Students will be advised on software requirements for this course, where possible this will be provided as part of the course.