Secure your future in the rapidly changing landscape of soil science
Soil science is an important discipline that covers a broad range of agricultural, ecological and scientific areas of study. Soil science professionals need to adapt to fast-paced changes in areas such as precision agriculture, soil ecology and sustainable land management practices. As sustainable land use becomes increasingly widespread, experts in soil science will be in high demand. This makes soil science a dynamic and exciting field that offers opportunities for growth and development.
Join the cutting-edge field of soil science with UNE's range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses and specialisations. Our offerings will equip you with the knowledge and skills required to succeed in this rapidly evolving industry, including sustainable land management practices, soil ecology and precision agriculture. You'll learn from experienced academics who are engaged in groundbreaking research, and our practical approach ensures that you'll be job-ready upon graduation.
UNE caters to the diverse needs of students, offering online and on-campus learning modes. Online learners have access to a community of adults who bring their life and work experiences together to create valuable networks. On campus students can enjoy convenient accommodation, sports facilities and support services. You can choose to study on a full-time or part-time basis, spread over three trimesters per year.
When studying soil science with UNE, you'll acquire the skills required to succeed in the dynamic future of agriculture, environmental conservation, or whichever area of the industry you choose to work in. By choosing UNE, you’ll be studying with an industry leader in the provision of online lifelong learning. Year after year, students award us the maximum 5-star ratings for Overall Experience and Student Support in The Good Universities Guide.
Explore the soil science courses and specialisations on offer at UNE.
Courses by study level
Food safety and security, natural resource depletion, climate change and the drive for sustainability are among the most significant global challenges of our time. There is a growing demand for professionals who are skilled at solving economics problems and making decisions relevant to these critical agricultural and natural resource issues.
With UNE’s Bachelor of Agricultural and Resource Economics, you will build specialist quantitative skills to pivot your career in a diverse range of agricultural and natural resource settings.
- 4 years full-time
- Up to 10 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- On Campus
- Online
With UNE's Bachelor of Agriculture, you will gain practical, production-oriented, specialist skills. You will have the paddock-ready skills and knowledge to solve problems and adapt to future challenges as a professional. Choose a major from one of three production-based options — animal, plant, and mixed farming — to gain a specialisation allowing you to enter the agricultural industry with expert knowledge and a technical skillset in the productive management of agriculutral landscapes.
With a Bachelor of Agriculture from UNE you will be well positioned to gain employment across a range of agricultural industries, and fit for the future.
- 3 years full-time
- Up to 10 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- On Campus
- Online
With UNE's Bachelor of Agriculture/Bachelor of Business you will gain practical, production-oriented skills and knowledge in agriculture together with in-depth skills and knowledge in business, management and finance. You will learn to formulate strategies and become an informed decision maker who can communicate effectively in this rapidly evolving industry.
Our combined degree enables you to specialise by studying one of four business majors to complement the paddock-ready skills you gain from the Bachelor of Agriculture component. Depending on your business major, you may also focus your agriculture studies by choosing one of six agriculture minors. You will be well positioned for career success with the expertise to adapt to a changing world.
- 4 years full-time
- Up to 10 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- On Campus
- Online
Anticipate and respond to the demands of agricultural industries and businesses in a changing global environment and gain a broad range of in-demand legal skills with the UNE Bachelor of Agriculture/Bachelor of Laws. In this double degree you will benefit from UNE’s unique position in regional Australia, with the flexibility to build your capabilities in areas that interest you most. With your acquired legal and agricultural knowledge, advanced research skills and technical skillset, you will graduate with broad knowledge and specialist skills for greater career flexibility.
- 5 years full-time
- Up to 12 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
Do you dream of a career where you’re helping to address the big issues facing humanity? Or perhaps you crave the excitement of being at the forefront of scientific discovery? Maybe you wish to instil your passion for the environment into future generations? Our Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science is uniquely positioned to help you reach your goals, with wide-spanning knowledge and a diverse set of skills to be adaptable in a rapidly changing world. This combined degree will help lay the foundation for you to acquire the ability to innovate and problem-solve — attributes that are in demand more than ever by employers in Australia and internationally.
- 4 years full-time
- Up to 10 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
The environmental problems that we face in a rapidly changing world require solutions developed by skilled scientists and innovators. UNE's Bachelor of Environmental Science gives you a broad foundation in the theories and practice that underpin a multidisciplinary career working to solve environmental issues on regional, national and global environmental scales.
With a range of majors and interdisciplinary minors covering the breadth of environmental science, you will find a program of study that suits you. Access state-of-the-art facilities in our interactive learning environment both on-campus and online, allowing you to tailor your study.
- 3 years full-time
- Up to 10 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- On Campus
- Online
The world requires skilled scientists and innovators to develop the solutions to the complex environmental problems facing a rapidly changing planet. Combined with a contemporary understanding of the theory and practice of law, the UNE Bachelor of Environmental Science/Bachelor of Laws will open the door to a wide range of evolving career opportunities. Our double degree provides you with a professionally accredited law degree with a comprehensive grounding in regional, national and global environmental science and natural resource issues. You will graduate with broad knowledge and technical skills to apply to a wide range of professions, and benefit from UNE’s specialist regional, rural and remote perspective in both fields.
- 5 years full-time
- Up to 12 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
Geoscience plays a crucial role in finding, extracting and managing earth resources. These minerals and energy resources are essential to almost every aspect of our day-to-day modern life. Studying UNE's Bachelor of GeoScience online or on campus will open doors to a range of opportunities for you in this critical field. Our course has a strong practical focus on earth science, geology and GIS, allowing you to upskill and future fit your career. You will expand your knowledge of our planet's composition, structure and natural geological systems, and hone your skills in managing the earth's resource to secure their continuing contribution to our socio-economic wellbeing in the future.
- 3 years full-time
- Up to 10 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
With UNE's Bachelor of Rural Science, you will graduate at the forefront of the agricultural industry ready to solve complex problems in agricultural systems across enterprises, landscapes and the globe. You will have the paddock-ready scientific skills to adapt to future challenges as a professional, and you will gain an understanding of the sustainability of the whole agricultural system from the biophysical (soils, plants and animal production) including environmental, social and economic principles.
You will be fit for the future and well positioned to become a leader in a range of industry contexts from farm management, the corporate world and scientific research.
- 4 years full-time
- Up to 10 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
Constant technological disruption and new discoveries in science influence every aspect of our lives, meaning that there has never been a better time than now to safeguard your future career with scientific knowledge and practical skills. With 20 majors to choose from, UNE’s Bachelor of Science is flexibly delivered by experts in research and teaching. Tailor your degree towards generalist or specialist science, while developing a broad scientific base and refining your abilities in critical analysis and complex problem solving. Our majors span the pure and applied sciences, with specialisation available in traditional disciplines and emerging fields.
- 3 years full-time
- Up to 10 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- On Campus
- Online
Studying the Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Laws at UNE will equip you with an extensive portfolio of knowledge and skills to future proof your career. In this comprehensive program of study, you will develop contemporary skills in how to write for, research, argue and apply the law, as well as explore a full breadth of contemporary science topics and issues. You will graduate with knowledge and skills to apply to a wide range of professions, benefitting from UNE's regional, rural and remote expertise in both fields to ensure you are ready to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing world.
- 5 years full-time
- Up to 12 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
In a rapidly changing world, there has never been a better time to expand your understanding of science and technology. UNE’s Bachelor of Scientific Studies is designed to provide you with broad scientific background to assist with future employment or to pursue further study. It is also a pathway to transition to a specialised science-based degree if you do not have an educational background in science. Our course encourages the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as skills for communication and lifelong learning, allowing you to apply these skills to your specific field of interest.
With an adaptable skill set you will be ready to respond to the challenges and opportunities in any career.
- 3 years full-time
- 6 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- On Campus
- Online
Enter the agricultural industry with a one-year academic qualification or refresh your knowledge with UNE’s Diploma in Agricultural Studies. By studying our course online or on campus, you will gain a formal tertiary-level qualification with a basic understanding of the science of agriculture, without having to commit to a full degree program.
Whether you wish to undertake a refresher course or start on a pathway to a bachelor's degree, our course will equip you with the understanding of agriculture to take advantage of opportunities in the rural sector.
- 1 year full-time
- Up to 4 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
Are you interested in studying science and want to explore the topics that interest you? UNE’s Diploma in Science is ideal if you are new to university study and want to get started in science, or if you wish to develop a foundation of skills and knowledge across a broad range of scientific disciplines to supplement your study in another field or add value to your role. Our course is designed to provide you with maximum flexibility, allowing you to tailor your program of study to your individual needs, with guidance and support from our experienced academic staff.
Choose from units across a wide range of scientific disciplines or focus on a specific subject area, and equip yourself with the tools you will need to pursue further study or pivot in your career and thrive in the rapidly changing world of science and technology.
- 1 year full-time
- Up to 4 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
This course is not offered in Trimester 3, 2024. We encourage you to explore our Diploma in Agricultural Studies as an alternative.
The Undergraduate Certificate in Agricultural Studies is designed to help you gain foundational skills in this rapidly evolving field of study. Whether you want to experience a taste for university studies or you're currently working in the field and want to gain tertiary qualifications to boost your skills, this course is the ideal starting point. Additionally, graduates of the Undergraduate Certificate in Agricultural Studies may be eligible to apply for a range of Diploma or Bachelor courses and receive credit for completed units.
- 1 year part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
This course is not offered in Trimester 3, 2024. We encourage you to explore our Diploma in Science as an alternative.
The study of Life and Earth Studies is diverse and multidisciplinary, involving science, geology, ecology, biology, chemistry, evolution and more.
Students at UNE are part of a rich history of life and earth science education in Australia, and benefit from the unique landscape that preserves half a billion years of history.
Our Undergraduate Certificate in Life and Earth Studies equips you with the foundational knowledge and skills to ensure you’re ready for placement in the industry or further study in the field.
- 1 year part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
Contribute to world class research by completing a Bachelor of Science with Honours at UNE. Position yourself with advanced scientific knowledge in an era of rapid change. Our honours course goes beyond the normal practical and field training and provides you with a wide range of cross-disciplinary applied research opportunities to foster your development as a skill research professional.
We offer a range of majors spanning the pure and applied sciences, working with UNE's internationally recognised research disciplines. Our flexible, innovative learning environment equips you with advanced discipline knowledge and skills in critical thinking, data analysis and problem-solving to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
- 1 year full-time
- 2 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
With UNE's Graduate Certificate in Agriculture, you can expand your professional skills and gain a specialisation in a specific area of agriculture or develop your fundamental knowledge of agricultural science. UNE's Graduate Certificate in Agriculture is an opportunity to fast-track your career via a range of coursework programs designed to develop your expertise. You'll be able to choose your specialist area from options that include general agricultural production, precision agriculture, cotton production, agricultural consulting, sustainable agriculture, sheep and wool science, genetics, soil science, and animal health and nutrition.
Open doors to employment options in this rapidly changing industry and future fit your career.
- Up to 4 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- On Campus
- Online
Environmental factors play an increasing role in decision making in many fields. The ability to take these factors into account and improve the productivity and sustainability of environmental systems to meet the current and future needs of communities and industry is in demand in the workplace. UNE's Graduate Certificate in Environmental Science gives you a foundation in environmental science, allowing you to upskill and expand your knowledge, whether you wish to pivot in your career or add value to your role.
With future-proofed skills and an in-depth understanding of environmental problems and their management, you will be better placed to anticipate and respond to the challenges we're facing in a rapidly changing world.
- 0.5 or 1 year full-time
- Up to 4 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
Adapt to an evolving workplace and open the door to new career opportunities with UNE's Graduate Certificate in Professional Practice. Whether you want to create more career choices, hone your specialist skills, or take a new career direction, we will work with you to customise a course to match your skills and aspirations.
Choose from a full breadth of subjects. Avoid getting bogged down in a lengthy, traditional course, and instead, play to your natural strengths, refine your skills and draw on your experience to prepare for the future. And do it all with the support of an expert academic success advisor with 1:1 guidance from start to finish.
- 0.5 years full-time
- 2 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
Design a bespoke course and prepare for a rapidly evolving workplace with the UNE Graduate Diploma in Professional Practice. Whether you want to advance your career, hone your skills or embark on a new career direction, we'll work with you to design a course to match your skills and aspirations. You will have the freedom to assemble your course from a full breadth of subjects, play to your strengths and draw from your experience to achieve your goals. Learn in a way that suits your timeframe and do it all with the support of an expert academic success advisor — with one-on-one guidance from start to finish. You'll be paving your pathway to the next stage of your career.
- 1 year full-time
- Up to 4 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
Whether you want to upgrade your expertise or pivot to another scientific speciality, UNE's Graduate Diploma in Science allows you to hone your skills and future fit your career. Flexibly delivered, and with a wide range of majors in diverse scientific disciplines to choose from, you can tailor the course to your strengths and interests. Add value to your role and ensure you can adapt and thrive in the rapidly changing world of science and technology.
- 1 year full-time
- Up to 4 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Online
- On Campus
The world is faced by rapidly advancing environmental challenges, with complex interactions between industry, government and communities driving development in the sector. Be ready to adapt and innovate to produce solutions to tomorrow’s environmental problems with UNE’s Master of Environmental Science and Management.
Our course builds on your expertise with advanced interdisciplinary conceptual and scientific knowledge, provides you with opportunities to hone your applied technical skills in the field or laboratory, and consolidates your applied research and problem-solving skills. With units that cover a range of environmental science specialities and the option to complete a research project, you can tailor the course to meet your needs.
Future proof your career and add value to your role by upgrading your professional knowledge in this constantly changing field.
- 1 or 1.5 or 2 years full-time
- Up to 6 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
Upgrade your skills and develop your expertise with science-based agricultural studies through UNE's Master of Science in Agriculture. Our flexible program of specialist coursework allows you to steer your studied towards your interests and shape the direction of your career within the agricultural industry. We offer a range of specialisations, including animal science, meat science, genetics and animal breeding, and agronomy and soil science.
Choose from a wide range of units, covering all aspects of the agricultural industry and receive a comprehensive introduction to research skills and research methodology. You can also undertake a research project supervised by our world-class researchers.
UNE is a leading innovator in teaching and research in the agricultural sciences. Your advanced knowledge and skillset will prepare you for high-level work in this rapidly evolving industry.
- 1 or 1.5 or 2 years full-time
- Up to 6 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- On Campus
- Online
With a wide range of majors in both the pure and applied sciences, UNE's Master of Scientific Studies provides you with specialised training in your chosen scientific discipline. Do you want to be able to respond to constant technological disruption in the workplace by learning more about big data? Perhaps you are passionate about our natural environments and want to refine your knowledge of Australian plants and animals. Are you upskilling to position yourself at the cutting-edge of new medical discoveries?
Our coursework Master's degree gives you opportunities to future fit your career by expanding on your expertise, upgrading your applied skills, and developing the advanced knowledge needed to solve complex problems in the rapidly changing world of science and technology.
- 2 years full-time
- Up to 6 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- On Campus
- Online
A Doctor of Philosophy is the pinnacle of academic study. Using rigorous and systematic research, combined with critical analysis, you will add to society's understanding of complex issues at the cutting-edge of your discipline or profession.
When you complete your PhD at UNE, you will be recognised as an expert in your area of study. Your original discoveries and innovations will be applied to benefit society and industry in Australia and worldwide.
- 4 years full-time
- 8 years part-time
- Research Period 1
- Research Period 2
- On Campus
- Online
High quality research and analysis allows us to better understand the complex issues we face in industry and society. With UNE's Master of Philosophy by research, your original findings and insights will add to the body of knowledge and inform decision-making in your specialist area.
You will work independently, with personalised support from recognised experts in your area of study every step of the way. Expand your expertise, hone your research skills, and immediately apply your knowledge in a research topic of your choice.
- 2 years full-time
- Up to 4 years part-time
- Research Period 1
- Research Period 2
- On Campus
- Online
Upgrade your knowledge and skills or pivot your career by developing expertise in sustainable, science-based agricultural systems of production through UNE's Master of Rural Science. This postgraduate degree offers a supportive program of independent research related to practical and sustainable production of food and fibre.
UNE is a leading innovator in teaching and research in the agricultural sciences. Your advanced knowledge and skillset will prepare you for high-level work in this rapidly evolving industry.
- 2 years full-time
- Up to 4 years part-time
- Research Period 1
- Research Period 2
- On Campus
- Online
Understanding and discovery in science drives advancement, providing solutions to the world's health, environmental, agricultural and technological challenges. UNE's Master of Science allows you to study flexibly, to gain expertise and research training, and to contribute to current scientific knowledge. You will be supervised by internationally-recognised scientists and with opportunities to immerse yourself in UNE's vibrant research culture and access to our world-class facilities, develop your skills as a research professional.
- 2 years full-time
- Up to 4 years part-time
- Research Period 1
- Research Period 2
- On Campus
- Online
If you are enrolled at another university, you can choose to study subjects at UNE that will count towards your course. Apply as a cross institutional student directly and complete one or several individual subjects (units) from the full scope of UNE's discipline areas.
- 1 trimester full-time
- 1 trimester part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
The world is full of possibilities, with so much to discover and learn. There are endless opportunities to enrich your knowledge to prepare for the future, but what if you don’t want to undertake a full degree? And how can you zero-in on the subjects that matter most to you? That’s what a Non-Award with UNE will help you to achieve.
Studying a Non-Award means you can learn without the need to complete entire course requirements or take on a full course load. Whether it’s a language you want to learn, a business unit to enhance your career, an improvement of your IT skills, an update on education principles or developing your management style, Non-Award study gives you the flexibility and control to explore what matters to you.
- 1 trimester full-time
- 1 trimester part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
- Bespoke Graduate Certificate: design your own 4 unit postgraduate course and have your work experience recognised in the process.
- ‘Fundamental’ Bespoke Course: choose two, three or four fundamental units from a traditional degree. If you are planning a new direction, or adding a new set of skills to your portfolio, you may want to start with this option. These units provide a foundation, or a ‘base camp’, to return to if you want to later progress to a full degree.
- ‘Advanced’ Bespoke Course: choose two, three or four advanced units from a full degree. This is a great strategy for staying current in your field, or advancing your knowledge.
- ‘Critical Content’ Bespoke Course: choose two, three or four units from any of the available units in a degree to create a Critical Content Bespoke Course. This option lets you get the knowledge you need without the time and cost of a full degree.
- ‘Mix and Match’ Bespoke Course: combine two, three or four units from different degrees and disciplines to design your mix and match Bespoke Course. This option lets you diversify your knowledge.
Why study with us?
![Smiling Bachelor of Agriculture student Greg Kemmett stands on wooden stairwell at UNE Armidale](https://d1dkx4rtpm18tu.cloudfront.net/file/1572608410/63320803472/width=-1/height=-1/format=-1/fit=scale/t=445005/e=never/k=805b79a7/Greg-Kemmett-1.jpg)
The most enjoyable part of my studies is the sense of achievement and being part of something bigger than myself.
Greg KemmettFind the right major or specialisation for your studies in Soil Science
Study soil science with UNE and graduate with the knowledge and skills required to meet the challenges of sustainability and food production. Our soil science offerings cover topics such as land assessment, soil systems, soil pollution and more. Explore your options now.
- Undergraduate
- Bachelor Honours
- Postgraduate
- Major
- Minor
- Specialisation
- Teaching Area
- Specialist Course
In a rapidly changing global environment, studying vegetation, landscapes and delicate ecosystems is critical. Using UNE’s advanced laboratories and technology, develop the skills to understand the natural world so you are future-fit for a…
In a rapidly changing global environment, studying vegetation, landscapes and delicate ecosystems is critical. Using UNE’s advanced laboratories and technology, develop the skills to understand the natural world so you are future-fit for a sustainable career that contributes to science.
Courses | Type | Level of Study |
---|---|---|
Bachelor of Environmental Science | Major | Undergraduate |
Why study with us?
Australian Universities
Public NSW Universities
NSW Universities
Careers in Soil Science
You will graduate from UNE as a soil science professional, work-ready for roles in government agencies, research institutions and private businesses. As the need for sustainable farming practices rises, soil science experts will be in high demand, making it a future-proof career choice.
- Agricultural consultant
Advise farmers and agricultural businesses on soil management, nutrient requirements and crop production strategies. - Soil scientist
Conduct research on the physical, chemical and biological properties of soils to improve soil health and productivity. - Soil conservation officer
Plan and implement soil conservation and rehabilitation projects to address issues such as erosion, salinity and land degradation. - Soil surveyor
Conduct soil surveys and develop detailed soil maps to help land managers make informed decisions about land use and management practices. - Soil and land remediation specialist
Develop and implement remediation strategies to address soil contamination caused by chemical spills, waste disposal or other activities. - Soil microbiologist
Study the role of microorganisms in soil processes, including nutrient cycling, organic matter decomposition and plant-microbe interactions. - Sustainable agriculture specialist
Develop and implement sustainable farming practices, including soil management, crop rotation and organic farming methods. - Environmental consultant
Evaluate the impact of land use and management practices on soil health and provide recommendations for sustainable land use practices.
A five-star experience
Five Stars,
18 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 18 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience
Good Universities Guide 2007-2024No.1 in NSW for
Student Experience
QILT (government-endorsed) ranks UNE as the top public NSW uni for Student Experience
QILT Student Experience SurveyFive Stars for
Teaching Quality
UNE rates among the top 20 per cent of universities in Australia for Teaching Quality
Good Universities Guide 2024Browse other disciplines within Sciences
What happens next?
Got any questions about a course you would like to study? Don’t hesitate to contact us, our Future Student team is standing by to help.
2024 applications are now open. The application process only takes 20 minutes to complete. Don’t delay, apply now!
Your start date is based on the study period you choose to apply for.