Sports Turf, Landscape and Horticulture Science

AT THE RIVER, YOU WILL…

Learn in the middle of one of the country’s fastest-growing areas for housing and golf course developments–creating opportunities to work for growing landscape companies and world-class golf facilities.
Study under experienced professors and instructors who are excited to share their industry knowledge with you.

AVAILABLE PROGRAMS

Associate in Science in Sports Turf, Landscape and Horticulture Science

Associate Degree

Start a new career or learn advanced skills in sports turf and landscape management with our associate’s degree program. You’ll gain the knowledge and skills you need with courses in soils and fertilizers, pest management, turfgrass science and more.

You can also choose to take specialized courses in golf course design, landscape design and installation, and the care and maintenance of turf and ornamental plants.

Degree Requirements and Courses

Landscape and Horticulture Specialist

Technical Certificate

Learn about the basics of horticulture management with the landscape and horticulture specialist certificate. Take courses in horticulture fundamentals, landscape design and plant identification.

Requirements and Courses

Landscape and Horticulture Professional

Technical Certificate

Get a deeper understanding of the horticultural practices that help landscapes thrive. Learn about horticultural practices, soil properties, fertility management and its environmental impacts, and insect and disease identification and management, as well as basic business skills.

Requirements and Courses

Landscape and Horticulture Technician

Technical Certificate

Advance your knowledge in common horticultural practices and learn about the fundamentals of business in our landscape and horticulture technician program. You can also take specialized courses in retail nursery operations, landscape maintenance and landscape design.

Requirements and Courses

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Carlos Arraya

CGCS, GM/CEO
Bellerive Country Club, ST. Louis, Missouri

“My career started at Indian River State College,
where I studied turf management. Many of you
looking for a career path should investigate all
of the offerings Indian River State College has
to offer. At Indian River State College, you have
dedicated faculty, great opportunities to learn,
and hands-on programming. The other thing you
have is tremendous alumni, including myself, who
have track records in the industry. I encourage
you to contact the faculty to learn more and truly
take an opportunity to launch your career in the
golf industry.”

Ryan Mckuhen

President
Blade Runner Farms, Myakka City, FL

“The Turf, Landscape, and Golf Course Operations program at Indian River State College has truly become a cornerstone the Green Industry in Florida can be proud of. Under the leadership of Director Mike Platt, and with the foundational efforts of former professor Dr. Ann McMullian, the program has evolved into a model of excellence that continues to shape and elevate careers across our industry.

For me personally, pairing this program with my early turfgrass and horticulture curriculum at South Fork High School was pivotal in steering my career path. The education, insight, and mentorship I received at IRSC provided not only the technical knowledge I needed but also the confidence and direction to pursue opportunities across multiple sectors of turfgrass management. Years later, I was honored to return as an Adjunct Professor, a full-circle experience that allowed me to give back to the very program that helped launch my career.

What sets this program apart is its alignment with Florida’s unique concentration of golf, landscape, and sports turf industries. As a hub for turfgrass innovation, Florida offers unparalleled opportunities, and IRSC is perfectly positioned to connect students with those real-world experiences. I’ve seen firsthand how many graduates have advanced to lead golf course operations, manage landscape firms, oversee sports turf facilities, and excel in integrated pest management.

Indian River State College has built more than a curriculum—it has created a pipeline of highly skilled professionals who are shaping the future of turf, landscape, and golf in Florida and beyond. I am proud to be one of them, and confident the program will continue transforming lives and strengthening our industry for years to come.”

NEXT STEPS

APPLY TO THE RIVER

Discover what’s possible at Indian River State College. When you’re ready, our simple application process is here to help you take the next step.

Start Your Application

PAYING FOR COLLEGE

We’re here to help you understand your options. From financial aid to scholarships and affordable tuition, The River is committed to making college accessible for everyone.

Financial Aid

Tuition & Fees

VISIT CAMPUS

Experience the energy of campus life for yourself. Schedule a tour to explore our facilities, meet students and staff, and discover what makes The River an incredible place to learn and grow.

Schedule a Tour