Kwantlen Turf Diploma Program Under Review

By WCTA staff

Long time KPU Turf Management Instructor, Stan Kazymerchyk, addressed the WCTA Board of Directors in person late last month to outline the KPU Turf Program’s current situation and ask for feedback.

Kazymerchyk explained, “While industry surveys show high respect for KPU turf grads, the 1993 model does not appear to be attracting modern students and low enrolment over the last few years is not financially sustainable for the University.”  

He added, “Turf diploma enrolment will be tentatively suspended for fall 2020 intake.  If sufficient interest is shown for a final intake (fall 2020) of existing program by deadline of March 1, 2020 we may continue the program pending a new plan.”

The challenge is to devise a plan that would restore full enrolment on an ongoing basis, an intake of 15-20 students every year.  WCTA Directors were told that KPU higher-ups have a wide open attitude for innovative solutions and the directive is to ‘blow up’ the present structure if necessary.

Several overhaul options are being explored, from modifying credentials and curriculum, to overhauling education delivery and even how the program is marketed.

Also, a new Turf Advisory Committee is in development with turf industry associations being engaged and regional focus group discussions planned.  There are some burning questions:

• Do we even need a BC turf school?
• If so, what credential level(s) are essential?
• What content should it deliver?
• How should product be delivered?
• How can we increase enrolment?

What can the golf and sportsturf management industry do?  

• Discuss subject with your peers, staff, potential students.
• Voice your opinions to your association Board.
• If you are e-mailed a survey from KPU, please do it!
• Contact Stan Kazymerchyk directly stan.kazymerchyk@kpu.ca