Soil Science and Hydrology
About the major
Soil and water security are major human existential challenges to the planet and more so in Australia, being the driest continent with highly weathered soils. The Soil Science and Hydrology major provides students with training in three key areas; soil, water and climate, and their links with functional, resilient and productive ecosystems. Soil, water and climate define the physical constraints to ecosystems, and the interpreting of these along with their costs and benefits supports the development of policy and sustainable management strategies. This knowledge will help secure our soil and water resources to maintain healthy, functional and productive ecosystems. We will explore the complex interaction between soil, water and climate, and the way we manage our landscapes. Ecosystems are considered across paddock to catchment scales and include all sectors from agriculture to forestry to mining to nature reserves.
This major has a strong emphasis on field-based learning through field schools and emphasis on field measurement and modelling through analysis of non-spatial and spatial data. Working with case studies and projects, you will identify and analyse real-world problems with the aim of identifying options to maintain the functionality of these interrelated systems. Students will develop generic skills in GIS, laboratory and data analysis that will enable students to contribute to water and soil security.
Requirements for completion
A major in Soil Science and Hydrology requires 48 credit points, consisting of:
(i) 12 credit points of 1000-level core units
(ii) 12 credit points of 2000-level core units
(iii) 18 credit points of 3000-level core units
(iv) 6 credit points of 3000-level selective units
A minor Soil Science and Hydrology is available and articulates to this major.
First year
Core: BIOL1XX7 and BIOL1XX6
Second year
Core: GEOS2X16 and SOIL2005
The second year provides the breadth of knowledge in soil, hydrology, and landscapes processes with units related soil science and hydrology along with units focusing on earth surface processes.
Third year
LWSC3007, SOIL3011, ENVX3001 and 6 credit points from a selection of: ENVX3002 and GEOS3X19
The third year provides further depth in in soil science and hydrology and this is complimented by developing skill in spatial and temporal analysis and data analytics. This will involve working on real world problems and developing options to support the functionality of landscapes. In your third year you must take at least one designated project unit.
Fourth year
The fourth year is only offered within the combined Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Advanced Studies course.
Advanced Coursework
The Bachelor of Advanced Studies advanced coursework option consists of 48 credit points, which must include a minimum of 24 credit points in a single subject area at 4000-level, including a project unit of study worth at least 12 credit points. Space is provided for 12 credit points towards the second major (if not already completed). 24 credit points of advanced study will be included in the table for 2020.
Honours
Requirements for Honours in the area of Soil Science and Hydrology: completion of 24 credit points of project work and 12 credit points of coursework.
Honours units of study will be available in 2020.
Contact and further information
W http://sydney.edu.au/science/life-environment/
E
T +61 2 9036 5417
Address:
School of Life and Environmental Sciences
Level 5, Carslaw Building (F07)
University of Sydney NSW 2006
Associate Professor Damien Field
Email:
Phone: +61 2 8627 1138
Learning Outcomes
Students who graduate from Soil Science and Hydrology will be able to:
- Understand the unique features of soil science and hydrology with a particular focus on the theories, concepts and principle sub-disciplines
- Understand how knowledge of soil science and hydrology is integrated with other disciplines particularly within agriculture, ecology and the environment
- Explain the relevance and application of soil science and hydrology in the study of contemporary agricultural, ecological and environmental issues, which underpins changes in policy and management strategies
- Develop strong field and laboratory analytical skills and the ability to quantify, analyse and interpret integrated soil and water data
- Integrate soil science and hydrology through research –based projects and developed expertise solving real-world problems and engaging directly with industry
- Communicate soil science and hydrology concepts and knowledge effectively to specialist and non-specialist audiences using appropriate oral, written and visual means.
- Contribute effectively as a member of leader of diverse teams working in soil and hydrology or multidisciplinary contexts.