Undergraduate | 2026

Bachelor of Science majoring in Soil Science

Start date

February, July

Campus

Waite, Adelaide City

Duration

3 year(s) full-time

Mode

Hybrid

Program code

BSCIE

Study as

Full-time

Indicative fees

$50,800

Prerequisite

None

Assumed knowledge

None

English language requirements

IELTS Overall 6.5 IELTS Reading 6.0 IELTS Listening 6.0 IELTS Speaking 6.0 IELTS Writing 6.0 Equivalent English qualifications

CRICOS code

115751E

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible for admission, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate that they fulfill any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

Secondary education (Year 12)

Completion of a secondary education qualification equivalent to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).

Vocational Education and Training (VET)

Completion of an award from a registered training organisation (RTO) at Certificate IV (AQF level 4) or higher.

Higher education study

Successful completion of at least 6 months full-time study (or equivalent part-time) of an undergraduate certificate (AQF level 5) or higher qualification from a recognised higher education institution with an overall Grade Point Average of 4.0 or higher.

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at Adelaide University. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

IELTS Overall 6.5
IELTS Reading 6.0
IELTS Listening 6.0
IELTS Speaking 6.0
IELTS Writing 6.0

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by Adelaide University and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:

Equivalent English qualifications

International admissions by country

Country	Score
Australia – ATAR	70
Bangladesh – Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC)	4.80
China – Gaokao	60%
Hong Kong – Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)	16
India – CBSE and CISCE	70
India – State Board Examinations	80
Kenya – Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE)	B+
Malaysia – Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM)	2.67
Malaysia – United Entrance Certificate (UEC)	23
Malaysia – Matrikulasi	2.67
Singapore - Singapore GCE Advanced Levels	7
Sri Lanka – GCE A Levels	8
Vietnam – Year 12 - Bằng Tốt Nghiệp Trung Học Phổ Thông	7.80

Why Bachelor of Science?

Ready to impact the future of our planet? Want to help protect the health of both ecosystems and humans? Develop critical knowledge in soil science that will contribute to smarter, more sustainable land use and conservation strategies. You’ll learn the crucial role of soil for our planet, from growing the food we eat to supporting the plants that provide us with oxygen. Experience a hands-on career where you’ll get outdoors and connect with our environment daily. Enter an in-demand field, as concerns about environmental sustainability continue to rise globally. Graduate with the skills to work across agriculture, environmental conservation, research and more.

Overview

The Bachelor of Science challenges you to think critically about societal and environmental challenges and provide informed, evidence-based solutions.

Your major in Soil Science will explore how soil forms, what it's made of and how it behaves. Answer essential questions of soil science that impact ecosystems and humans. How can we improve soil fertility for sustainable agriculture? How do we protect soils during construction and urban development? What can be done to restore degraded soils and contaminated sites?

Gain practical skills using the latest technology in geographical information systems, remote sensing and spatial modelling that will allow you to monitor landscape distributions. You’ll become an expert in ensuring the long-term sustainability of soils to protect our future planet. Graduate ready to work across diverse sectors including agriculture, mining, academia, land development or government.

Key features

Explore the biological, chemical and physical properties of soils in Australian landscapes.
Tackle real-world challenges in soil science.
Gain advanced practical skills through hands-on projects and fieldwork.
Learn directly from world-class researchers.
Use purpose-built laboratories and technology, including GIS, remote sensing and spatial modelling.
Study Aboriginal approaches to environmental management.

What you'll learn

Our Bachelor of Science is flexible and digitally enabled, designed to sharpen your critical thinking, analytical problem solving and evidence-based decision making. Explore pressing global challenges – from climate change to future ethics. Learn scientific statistics, quantitative techniques and how to decode big data. Get job-ready through authentic industry engagement, including an 80-hour placement, or professional project in your field of interest.

In your Soil Science major, you’ll choose between exciting hands-on courses, including:

Soils and landscapes
Agricultural production
Soil and water resources
Foundations in plant science
Environmental sustainability and soil carbon
Microbial ecology
Crop and pasture production
Soil and water management and conservation
Soil ecology and nutrient cycling
Ecotoxicology and environmental risk assessment
Earth and landscape evolution
Soil and plant nutrition.

Experience a mix of online and face-to-face learning, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, labs, practicals and field trips. Get familiar with state-of-the-art soil science tools and facilities, such as our soil pit, soil lab, glasshouse, commercial scale paddocks and industrial farming machinery. Network with guest experts and soil scientists. Learn laboratory techniques, information technology skills, teamwork, initiative and the ability to communicate and cooperate with people from diverse backgrounds.

Use the latest technology in geographical information systems, remote sensing and spatial modelling to monitor distributions of landscape properties. Learn to assess, map and monitor Australian landscapes to solve questions about the structure of ecosystems and find new approaches to environmental problems. Add to your career toolkit through electives from across Adelaide University in areas like Technology, Business or Languages.

Majors

The Bachelor of Science is also available with majors in the following:

Biochemistry
Genetics
Microbiology and Immunology
Ecology
Evolutionary Biology and Palaeontology
Plant Biology
Geology
Geology and Earth Resources
Geology and Palaeontology
Geophysics.

What courses you'll study

Complete 144 units comprising:

42 units from Core courses, and
6 units from Work integrated learning, and
6 to 54 units from Electives, and
Either:
48 units from Discipline courses, or
42 to 90 units for one Major from Major

Complete exactly 42 units from the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Science of People, Society and the Future Planet	Course code SCIE1001	Units 6
Course name Scientific Data: Analysis and Visualisation	Course code INFO2011	Units 6
Course name UG Common Core 1	Course code AUXX1000	Units 6
Course name UG Common Core 2	Course code AUXX2000	Units 6
Course name UG Common Core 3	Course code AUXX3000	Units 6
Course name Physics 1A	Course code PHYS1001	Units 6
Course name Physics 1B	Course code PHYS1002	Units 6
Course name Chemistry IA	Course code CHEM1001	Units 6
Course name Chemistry 1B	Course code CHEM1003	Units 6
Course name Calculus 1	Course code MATH1004	Units 6
Course name Biology 1A: Molecules, Genes and Cells	Course code BIOL1003	Units 6
Course name Biology 1B: Evolution and Diversity of Organisms	Course code BIOL1004	Units 6
Course name Earth, Climate and Life Systems	Course code ECOL1001	Units 6

Complete exactly 60 units from the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Soils and Landscapes	Course code EART1004	Units 6
Course name Soil and Water Resources II	Course code AGRI2004	Units 6
Course name Foundations in Plant Science II	Course code BIOL2024	Units 6
Course name Environmental Sustainability and Soil Carbon II	Course code AGRI2000	Units 6
Course name Soil and Water Management and Conservation III	Course code EART3007	Units 6
Course name Soil Ecology and Nutrient Cycling III	Course code EART3008	Units 6
Course name Ecotoxicology and Environmental Risk Assessment III	Course code EART3009	Units 6
Course name Agricultural Production I	Course code AGRI1000	Units 6
Course name Environmental Chemistry	Course code CHEM1004	Units 6
Course name Microbial Ecology II	Course code BIOL2011	Units 6
Course name Crop and Pasture Production II	Course code AGRI2005	Units 6
Course name Earth and Landscape Evolution III	Course code EART3006	Units 6
Course name Soil and Plant Nutrition III	Course code EART3010	Units 6

Complete exactly 6 units from the following:

Course name		Course code	Units
	Course name Science Professional Project	Course code SCIE3901	Units 6
	Course name Science Professional Placement	Course code SCIE3900	Units 6

Complete 6 to 54 units from the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Foundations in Physics	Course code PHYS1000	Units 6
Course name Foundations in Chemistry	Course code CHEM1000	Units 6
Course name Foundations in Mathematics	Course code MATH1000	Units 6
Course name Calculus 1	Course code MATH1004	Units 6
Course name Elective 1	Course code AUXX1011	Units 6
Course name Elective 2	Course code AUXX1012	Units 6
Course name Elective 3	Course code AUXX1013	Units 6
Course name Elective 4	Course code AUXX1014	Units 6
Course name Elective 5	Course code AUXX1015	Units 6
Course name Elective 6	Course code AUXX1016	Units 6
Course name Elective 7	Course code AUXX1017	Units 6
Course name Elective 8	Course code AUXX1018	Units 6

Career outcomes

Study soil science at Adelaide University and graduate ready to make a positive impact on the environment, agriculture and society. You might study extraterrestrial soils on the Moon or Mars, helping astronauts grow food in space. You could advise farmers on planting and irrigation. Perhaps you’ll collaborate with biotechnicians to genetically engineer soil-fertility-enhancing microbes.

You could also be a:

Climate change analyst
Soil conservationist
Agronomist
Environmental consultant
Land rehabilitation specialist
Agricultural scientist
Soil fertility expert
Hydrologist
Environmental impact assessor
Extension agent
Oil surveyor
Biodiversity consultant
Research scientist
Sustainability advisor.

Industry trends

Soils are a vital component of all terrestrial ecosystems and play a crucial role in Australia’s environmental, economic and social wellbeing (Australia State of the Environment, 2021). From pollution, urbanisation, salinisation and water scarcity to biodiversity loss and soil degradation, soil scientists have a lot on their plate. As the demand for graduates in soil science grows these experts will drive the agricultural sector forward, support environmental sustainability, and develop new strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and fight climate change. Studying soil science at Adelaide University will give you the skills to tackle these challenges head on – and stay ahead in an exciting field.

How to apply

Check your eligibility

Before you begin, find the degree you wish to study and check you meet the academic entry requirements and English language requirements.

Entry requirements

Gather your relevant documents

Ensure you have all supporting documentation needed at the time of application to avoid delays.

How to apply

Complete and send your application

Apply through one of the University’s official agency partners, or via our online application system.

Apply now

How to apply

Applications for international students are open now, to begin your studies in 2026.

Apply through one of the University’s official Education Agents, or via our International Application System.

Find an Education Agent

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may be required to apply through one of our Education Agents.

Find an education agent in your country

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

From August 2025 you can apply as a domestic student for entry to Adelaide University in 2026.
Applications for 2026 will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs. A direct application process will be available for 100% online degrees at a later date. In the meantime, you could start your degree at UniSA or the University of Adelaide and continue at Adelaide University.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university.

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus.

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

Academic learning support, including after-hours support provided via Studiosity through live online chat assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities.
Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner (GP) to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, visa and work rights and academic policies and procedures.
An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission.

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

February for Semester 1  
July for Semester 2.

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view our Academic calendar. 

View all FAQs

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.

Student services

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:

Career advice and mentoring services
Personal counselling
LGBTQIA+ support
Academic support
Fees and finance help
Security services
Accommodation services
Common rooms
Prayer rooms.

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

Study hours

Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include: