Bachelor of Science (Advanced) - Soil Science and Hydrology

The University of Sydney

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 interpretation 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.In this course, you will take 'advanced' units of study in science which will provide you with high-level challenges, special projects, and accelerated learning.This degree offers exceptional opportunities to budding scientists who relish a challenge. From lectures to independent research and in-depth problem solving, our Advanced stream will give you the skills to embark on a rewarding career.The Bachelor of Science (Advanced) is an undergraduate coursework degree that will develop your skills in analytical and critical thinking, providing you with the opportunity to join research fields and help make the world a better place. You will study core units to gain essential knowledge in fundamental sciences. You will then complete a stream, program or major from the Science disciplinary pool, along with a minor or second major from either the disciplinary pool or the shared pool. Additionally, you will complete units from the Open Learning Environment and any elective units as needed to make up the required credit points for the course. As an additional year at the end of your degree, you can choose to do Honours, which will develop deep analytical skills and prepare you for further research opportunities, such as pursuing a PhD. You will undertake a supervised but independent research project as well as connected discipline-based and/or research-focused coursework.

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