Level 4 Sports Turf (on campus)

This is the only full-time Sports Turf programme on offer in New Zealand! 

Sports Turf professionals are responsible for the management and maintenance of golf courses, cricket wickets, sports fields and artificial turf, among others. 

Immerse yourself in a comprehensive programme that blends theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on experience. Study on campus and then move into your work placement, which means you can earn as you learn as some of New Zealand’s top golf and stadium venues. 

Our Sports Turf graduates are well-respected and in high demand in the industry, with most students being offered full-time positions during their work placements.

Upon successful completion, you will graduate with a New Zealand Certificate in Horticulture Services (Level 4) (Sports Turf). 

Entry requirements

• Open entry.
• International students will be individually assessed to ensure you are ready for this study. 
• If English is not your first language, you must provide:
  • New Zealand University Entrance OR
  • Overall Academic IELTS 5.5 with no individual band score lower than 5.0 (achieved in one test completed in the last two years), OR
  • Acceptable alternative evidence of the required IELTS (see here for NZQA proficiency table and here for list of recognised proficiency tests).

If you need to improve your English Language skills, we offer a wide range of English programmes.

Recognition of prior learning

If you have extensive knowledge and skills due to practical experience in this area, enquire about our recognition of prior learning process at Capable NZ. You may have already gained credits towards this qualification. 

Additional documentation

You must supply certified copies of proof of identify, academic records, proof of residency (where appropriate) and a curriculum vitae.

Selection procedure

Applicants will be selected according to the entry criteria. If the number of applications exceeds the number of places available, applicants will be placed on a waiting list in the order they were received. 

You will study

The courses within this programme have been designed to ensure you gain the skills to ensure excellent employment outcomes for a range of turf facilities. There are no elective courses. 

Qualification structure 

Your workload

Theory and practical classes will take up four days a week from 9.00am-3.00pm. You will also have one day a week of work experience during the growing season. In Year One, there will be a full-time work experience placement from September to April. You will then return to the campus and complete the programme in late June. Generally, these days will reflect industry needs and will therefore run from 8.00am-5.00pm. You will also have assessment and study work to complete. 

Programme specific risks

These include risks associated with agri-chemicals, heat, cold, noise, lifting, machinery and potential allergens. You will be given more detailed information during the programme.  

Additional costs/requirements

During your internship placement in the second year, it is your responsibility to organise accommodation and transport, although your employer will try and help you. It is important that you hold a current driving licence and have your own work boots and overalls.

Student loans/allowances

Whilst this programme is free for you to study via the Trades and Apprenticeship Fund (TTAF), this fund only covers tuition fees and compulsory costs such as student levies.It does not cover any additional costs or living costs.You can pay for additional and living costs by yourself if that is possible for you or by applying for a loan or allowance through Studylink.      

It is important to apply for your student loan/allowance at the same time as you apply for this programme, due to the length of time Studylink take to process. Loan/allowance applications can be cancelled at any time if you decide to withdraw your programme application or if it is unsuccessful. 

• For information about student loans and allowances please visit the Studylink website 

Please note:Student Loans and Allowances and TTAF are available for domestic students only.