Soil structure and water
Explore texture, aggregation and the movement and storage of water in soil.
GET TO KNOW THE SUBJECT
What is soil science about?
Soil is more than a place for roots to grow. It stores water, supplies nutrients and supports a remarkable range of living organisms. Soil science helps you understand those connections and why two fields may need very different care.
The subject brings soil physics, chemistry and biology together. You explore how soils form, how their properties are measured and how results can inform management. It is a field for students who like careful sampling, practical analysis and the challenge of connecting a laboratory result with what is happening outdoors.
BUILD YOUR UNDERSTANDING01 02 03 04
What you'll explore
Nutrients and fertility
Understand nutrient availability, organic matter and the principles behind balanced nutrient use.
Soil chemistry
Learn why properties such as pH and salinity matter to plant growth and soil management.
The living soil
Discover the role of soil organisms in decomposition, nutrient cycling and soil health.
PUTTING IDEAS TO WORK
Learning through practice
These activities show how the subject connects to everyday agricultural questions.
- 01
Take a useful sample
Plan how and where to sample so that the result represents the field being studied.
- 02
Measure with care
Understand preparation, labelling and recording as part of reliable soil analysis.
- 03
Interpret in context
Read a soil result alongside crop needs, field history and local growing conditions.
LOOKING AHEAD
Where this knowledge can take you
Soil science can support work in soil-testing services, nutrient management, agricultural research and land-resource assessment. Specialist laboratory or environmental roles may require further training. A sound understanding of sampling and interpretation is a useful foundation for all of them.
LEARNING IN PICTURES
138 IMAGESExplore the gallery
Explore laboratory and group photographs from the Soil Science Department. Select an image for a closer look.
HAVE A QUESTION?
CONTACT OUR TEAM Let's talk about soil science.
For current faculty details, course options and admission information, get in touch with the Faculty of Agriculture.