Soil Science

Soil is one of our greatest natural resources. Soil Science encompasses how soil forms, its role in the environment, land conservation and rehabilitation issues. Soil Science is a multi-disciplinary subject combining aspects of physics, chemistry, biology and the integrative themes of pedology ( the science of natural soils) and geomorphology (the study of the physical features of the Earth’s surface).

www.agric.usyd.edu.au/disciplines/soil_science.shtm

What do Soil Scientists do?

Soil Scientists are employed in a wide range of occupations in public and private enterprises. There are opportunities in basic and applied research in land and soil management. Graduates are employed in state departments of agriculture, the CSIRO, the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC), Sydney Water, the Department of Infrastructure, Planning, and Natural Resources (DIPNR), chemical companies, and Land Care groups. In the private sector there is employment in environmental consultative companies, especially in urban areas.

How do you study Soil Science?

You can major in soil science in the BSc or Bachelor of Liberal Studies degree.

What will you study?

FIRST YEAR
Although there are no first year units in soil science all students must study first year maths or physics and chemistry or geology. Most students also choose to study first year physics, geology, geography or computer science.

SECOND YEAR
In units which begin in second year, you will learn about the principles and practices of soil science, about natural soils, soil physics and soil chemistry. The units will include practical experience in soil survey procedures, soil description and classification, quantitative soil mapping, soil degradation, soil quality and function evaluation, and aspects of soil management.

THIRD YEAR
Third year studies in soil science involve field and laboratory work to measure important soil physical properties, a field trip to investigate soil types of NSW and laboratory work to measure important soil chemical properties. Lectures explore soil analytical methods, soil formation processes and detailed aspects of the physical and chemical behaviour of soil.

What else will you study?

Students study subjects such as agricultural chemistry, biology, chemistry, geography, geology and mathematics with soil science.