Course overview
The course will provide students with a comprehensive view of ecological interactions in soils. It covers the interactions between plants, soil and soil organisms, the roles played by soil organisms in decomposition of organic material, nutrient cycling (C, N, P) and stability of agricultural and natural ecosystems. Other topics include the importance of soil organisms for soil fertility, mycorrhizas and their effects on plant productivity and plant communities, microbial ecology, root growth and the biology of the rhizosphere.
Course learning outcomes
- Understand the importance of soil ecology and nutrient cycling in agricultural and natural ecosystems, with specific focus on carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus.
- Understand the factors and processes affecting nutrient availability in soils, and plant-soil interactions, including the role of soil organisms, plant roots, the rhizosphere, and association with mycorrhizae.
- Utilise common analysis methods for evaluating nutrient cycling, including assessing microbial activity.
- Understand how management practises affect nutrient cycling and agricultural sustainability.
- Synthesize, critically analyse, and communicate scientific concepts and research findings regarding soil ecology and nutrient cycling.
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.