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Bruce Branham

In this course, you'll have the opportunity to explore some of the greatest classic golf architects who built courses from the 1880s through the 1920s and some contemporary golf course architects. You'll also learn about the methods of putting green construction and maintenance and examine bunker construction, maintenance, and expenses. Additionally, you'll explore routine cultural practices, such as thatch management, soil pH control, turf cultivation, rolling, topdressing, and localized dry spots, which are essential for proper golf course management. Lastly, you'll discover the strategies used to manage golf course diseases, which are crucial for ensuring a healthy and safe environment for golfers.

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In this course, you'll have the opportunity to explore some of the greatest classic golf architects who built courses from the 1880s through the 1920s and some contemporary golf course architects. You'll also learn about the methods of putting green construction and maintenance and examine bunker construction, maintenance, and expenses. Additionally, you'll explore routine cultural practices, such as thatch management, soil pH control, turf cultivation, rolling, topdressing, and localized dry spots, which are essential for proper golf course management. Lastly, you'll discover the strategies used to manage golf course diseases, which are crucial for ensuring a healthy and safe environment for golfers.

This course is a non-credit course that is part of the College of ACES suite of online programs. Learn more about online programs and explore ways to apply your work toward a degree program at College of Aces Online Programs https://aces.illinois.edu/academics/online-programs (External Website).

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What's inside

Syllabus

Module 1 | Golf Course Architecture
Golf course architecture has a rich and fascinating history that spans centuries. From the earliest golf courses in Scotland to the modern-day masterpieces found worldwide, the design and construction of golf courses have evolved and adapted to golfers' changing needs and preferences. In this module, we will explore the history of golf course architecture, from the rudimentary courses of the past to today's innovative designs. We will examine the key figures and movements that have influenced the development of golf course architecture. We will also consider the various factors designers must consider when creating a world-class golf course.
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Module 2 | Golf Course Construction
Golf course construction is a complex process that involves careful planning, design, and execution. It requires a team of skilled professionals knowledgeable in various aspects of construction, including excavation, grading, landscaping, and irrigation. Every step is critical to ensuring the project's success, from selecting the right location to choosing the best materials and equipment. Whether building a new course or renovating an existing one, careful attention to detail is essential for creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing course that provides an enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels.
Module 3 | Golf Course Turf Management
The condition of the turf on a golf course can significantly impact the game, making proper management essential. Factors such as mowing, humidity, irrigation, and fertility must all be considered when managing turfgrass on golf courses. This module will address key principles for implementing effective management strategies to ensure the turf remains healthy, green, and consistent for a superior golfing experience.
Module 4 | Golf Course Soil Management
Effective soil management is at the heart of maintaining healthy and vibrant turf. By carefully monitoring and optimizing a soil's physical, chemical, and biological properties, you can promote strong roots, prevent erosion, and ensure that your greens, tees, and fairways remain healthy and resilient year-round. This module will cover the basics of soil management for golf courses, including soil testing, fertilization, and irrigation strategies to keep golf turf in top condition.
Module 5 | Golf Course Diseases
This module will discuss various diseases affecting golf courses and how to prevent and manage them. As a golf course manager or superintendent, it is essential to be aware of these diseases and take necessary measures to ensure the health and longevity of your course. Examine common turfgrass diseases, control strategies, and other issues. By the end of this module, you will better understand the common diseases that affect golf courses and the steps you can take to keep your golf course healthy and thriving.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Explores golf course architecture's history from rudimentary courses to today's innovative designs
Examines the key figures and movements that have influenced the development of golf course architecture
Considers the various factors designers must consider when creating a world-class golf course
Covers the process of golf course construction, including excavation, grading, landscaping, and irrigation
Addresses key principles for implementing effective management strategies to ensure healthy turfgrass for superior golfing
Covers the basics of soil management for golf courses, including soil testing, fertilization, and irrigation

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Golf Course Management: Best Practices with these activities:
Review Golf Course Architecture
Refreshes knowledge of golf course architecture, providing a strong foundation for understanding the course material.
Show steps
  • Read overview materials and articles on golf course architecture history
  • Review case studies of famous golf courses and their architects
  • Analyze the design principles and strategies used in golf course architecture
Read and Review 'The Anatomy of a Golf Course' by Tom Doak
Provides in-depth knowledge and insights into golf course architecture principles and design strategies.
Show steps
  • Read and take notes on the book's chapters on golf course design principles
  • Analyze the case studies and examples presented in the book
  • Summarize the key concepts and ideas discussed in the book
Analyze Golf Course Layouts and Designs
Develops critical thinking and analytical skills in assessing golf course layouts and designs.
Show steps
  • Obtain blueprints or aerial images of golf courses
  • Identify and analyze the different elements of the course (e.g., fairways, greens, bunkers)
  • Evaluate the strategic challenges and playability of the course
Two other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all five activities
Create a Resource Compilation on Golf Course Diseases
Enhances understanding and diagnosis of golf course diseases through the collection and organization of relevant information.
Show steps
  • Research and identify reliable sources of information on golf course diseases
  • Collect and organize data on disease symptoms, causes, and management strategies
  • Create a comprehensive resource document or database for easy reference
Create a Golf Course Design Proposal
Provides hands-on experience in applying golf course architecture principles and showcasing design creativity.
Show steps
  • Develop a concept and vision for the proposed golf course
  • Design the layout and routing of the course, including hole lengths and hazards
  • Create a detailed plan for the construction and maintenance of the course
  • Present the design proposal to a panel or group for feedback and evaluation

Career center

Learners who complete Golf Course Management: Best Practices will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Golf Course Superintendent
A Golf Course Superintendent is responsible for overseeing the maintenance and operations of a golf course. They ensure the course is in top condition for golfers and manage a team of groundskeepers. This course would help a Golf Course Superintendent understand the principles of golf course architecture, construction, and turf management. It would also provide them with the knowledge and skills to prevent and manage golf course diseases.
Golf Course Architect
A Golf Course Architect designs and builds new golf courses, as well as renovates existing ones. They work with clients to create a course that meets their specific needs and desires. This course would help a Golf Course Architect understand the history of golf course architecture, as well as the latest trends and technologies in course design and construction.
Assistant Golf Course Superintendent
An Assistant Golf Course Superintendent assists the Golf Course Superintendent in managing and maintaining a golf course. They may also be responsible for overseeing a specific area of the course, such as the greens or fairways. This course would help an Assistant Golf Course Superintendent develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this role.
Turfgrass Manager
A Turfgrass Manager is responsible for managing the turfgrass on a golf course, sports field, or other property. They ensure the turf is healthy and in good condition for use. This course would help a Turfgrass Manager understand the principles of turfgrass management and would provide them with the skills and knowledge needed to prevent and manage turfgrass diseases.
Golf Course Maintenance Technician
A Golf Course Maintenance Technician is responsible for maintaining the equipment and facilities on a golf course. They may also be responsible for performing minor repairs and maintenance tasks. This course would help a Golf Course Maintenance Technician understand the principles of golf course maintenance and would provide them with the skills and knowledge needed to perform their job effectively.
Landscape Architect
A Landscape Architect designs and builds outdoor spaces, including golf courses. They work with clients to create a space that meets their specific needs and desires. This course would help a Landscape Architect understand the principles of golf course architecture and design, as well as the latest trends and technologies in course construction.
Golf Course Equipment Manager
A Golf Course Equipment Manager is responsible for managing the equipment on a golf course. They ensure the equipment is in good working order and that it is available to golfers when they need it. This course would help a Golf Course Equipment Manager understand the principles of equipment management and would provide them with the skills and knowledge needed to manage equipment effectively.
Golf Course Irrigation Specialist
A Golf Course Irrigation Specialist is responsible for managing the irrigation system on a golf course. They ensure the system is operating efficiently and that the course is receiving the proper amount of water. This course would help a Golf Course Irrigation Specialist understand the principles of irrigation and would provide them with the skills and knowledge needed to manage an irrigation system effectively.
Golf Course Safety Manager
A Golf Course Safety Manager is responsible for ensuring the safety of golfers and staff on a golf course. They develop and implement safety procedures and train staff on safety protocols. This course would help a Golf Course Safety Manager understand the principles of golf course safety and would provide them with the skills and knowledge needed to develop and implement safety procedures.
Golf Course Environmental Manager
A Golf Course Environmental Manager is responsible for managing the environmental impact of a golf course. They develop and implement environmental management plans and monitor the course's environmental performance. This course would help a Golf Course Environmental Manager understand the principles of environmental management and would provide them with the skills and knowledge needed to develop and implement environmental management plans.
Golf Course Marketing Manager
A Golf Course Marketing Manager is responsible for marketing and promoting a golf course. They develop and implement marketing campaigns and manage the course's social media presence. This course may be helpful to a Golf Course Marketing Manager as it would provide them with a better understanding of the golf course industry and the needs of golfers.
Golf Course Operations Manager
A Golf Course Operations Manager is responsible for the day-to-day operations of a golf course. They oversee the staff, manage the budget, and ensure the course is running smoothly. This course may be helpful to a Golf Course Operations Manager as it would provide them with a better understanding of the golf course industry and the needs of golfers.
Golf Course Food and Beverage Manager
A Golf Course Food and Beverage Manager is responsible for the food and beverage operations of a golf course. They oversee the staff, manage the budget, and ensure the food and beverage operation is running smoothly. This course may be helpful to a Golf Course Food and Beverage Manager as it would provide them with a better understanding of the golf course industry and the needs of golfers.
Golf Course Pro Shop Manager
A Golf Course Pro Shop Manager is responsible for the pro shop operations of a golf course. They oversee the staff, manage the inventory, and ensure the pro shop is running smoothly. This course may be helpful to a Golf Course Pro Shop Manager as it would provide them with a better understanding of the golf course industry and the needs of golfers.
Golf Course Event Coordinator
A Golf Course Event Coordinator is responsible for planning and coordinating events at a golf course. They work with clients to develop and execute events that meet their specific needs and desires. This course may be helpful to a Golf Course Event Coordinator as it would provide them with a better understanding of the golf course industry and the needs of golfers.

Reading list

We've selected five books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Golf Course Management: Best Practices.
Provides a critical analysis of golf course design. It examines the different factors that affect golf course design, such as climate, topography, and playing style.
Collection of essays on the art of golf course architecture. It provides a unique insight into the design process and the factors that make a great golf course.
Comprehensive guide to soil management for golf courses. It covers everything from soil testing to fertility management.
Comprehensive guide to the management of a golf course. It covers everything from budgeting to marketing.

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