Course overview
Soil and water are recognised as essential resources that support human well-being and ecosystem health. This course builds on basic knowledge gained in the first-year courses (Soils and Landscapes/Earth Climate and Life Systems) and aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the important physical, chemical and biological properties and processes that underpin our interconnected soil and water resources. This knowledge is essential for effective management of these resources, which we introduce in this course and expand upon in third-year courses, as the importance for sustainable land and water use continues to grow.
- Soil as a Functioning Material
- The Soil Spectrum
- A Living Soil
Course learning outcomes
- Explain the nature and importance of soil and water resources in supporting ecosystems and human well-being.
- Analyse the key physical, chemical, and biological properties of soils and relate them to soil function and health.
- Describe and interpret the processes governing soil fertility and nutrient cycling, and evaluate their implications for sustainable land use.
- Measure, record, and interpret key soil and water properties using standard field and laboratory techniques.
- Apply principles of water quality assessment to evaluate the suitability of water for various environmental and agricultural uses.
- Identify and explain the major types and causes of soil and water degradation in Australia, and recommend appropriate management practices to mitigate them.
Availability
Class details
Waite Campus
Group 1
Class number 21953
Section LE01
Size 100
Available 9
Notes:
Class number 21954
Section PR01
Size 150
Available 58
Fee calculator
To display course fees, please select your status and program below:
We’re updating this Fee Calculator. It currently shows fees for programs only. Please check the relevant program for full fee details.
Study Abroad student tuition fees are available here.
Only some Postgraduate Coursework programs are available as Commonwealth Supported. Please check your program for specific fee information.
If you are studying in a Professional Pathway Psychology or Clinical Psychology program, please refer to the Student Contributions amounts published here.
The Student Contribution amount displayed below is for students commencing a new program from 2021 onwards. If you are continuing in a program you commenced prior to 1 January 2021, or are commencing an Honours degree relating to an undergraduate degree you commenced prior to 1 January 2021, you may be charged a different Student Contribution amount from the amount displayed below. Please check the Student Contribution bands for continuing students here. If you are an international student, or a domestic student studying in a full fee paying place, and are continuing study that you commenced in 2025 or earlier, your fees will be available here before enrolments open for 2026.