How to become a soil scientist
Get your hands dirty and work hard to understand the environment and soil conditions.
What does a soil scientist do?
Soil scientists focus on maintaining the overall health of soil by working to understand the environment, soil conditions and what is living within. Most soil scientists work involves studying the upper layer of the earths crust and working to understand the organisms that live in these upper layers.
Duties and tasks
Conduct field studies, collect and evaluate data, and formulate reports on soil health and conditions
Provide recommendations for general wildlife conservation and for ways to control soil pollution.
Consult large organisations and government looking to maintain soil health and productivity.
Find ways to protect the environment, reduce pollution and keep the soil healthy
Study the chemical and biological makeup of soil.
Related jobs
Agricultural scientist
Ecologist
Environmental officer
Landcare worker
Natural resource manager
Discover related science degrees
UndergraduateUNE-DSC-DIP
Discover the basic methods, techniques, and tools of science
Engage your curiosity about the natural world with this online science course. Build a solid and broad foundation of scientific knowledge, starting with core subjects including physics and chemistry. Focus on a specialisation such as maths or biology.
- Study method
- 100% online
- Duration
- 1 year full time or part time equivalent
UndergraduateMAQ-BSC-DEG
Learn from international leaders in science
Benefit from the guidance of teachers whose research findings are known on a global scale. Use this research to conduct case studies. Take a hands-on approach with a lab component. Specialise in biology, including genetics, genes and life processes.
- Study method
- Online & on-campus
- Duration
- 3 years full time or part time equivalent
- Entry requirements
- No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Diploma of University Studies (Science Pathway)
UndergraduateTAS-USS-DIP
Set yourself up for success with tertiary study in science
This diploma is a great option if you know what you want to study but need a more supportive approach. Learn key skills and build knowledge in the field of science. Get credits for the subjects you take if you go on to study a bachelor degree.
- Study method
- 100% online
- Duration
- 1 year full time or part time equivalent
- Entry requirements
- No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Bachelor of Science (Earth and Environmental Systems and Marine Systems)
UndergraduateSCU-EMS-DEG
A double specialisation that explores, protects and restores the planet
Explore Earth’s systems and challenges. You’ll apply chemistry and biology concepts to unpack global issues including pollution. Build skills in scientific report writing and data collection. For careers in park management, government, consulting or research.
- Study method
- Online & on-campus
- Duration
- 3 years full time or part time equivalent
Discover related science subjects
UndergraduateUNE-PHYS100
- Study method
- 100% online
- Entry requirements
- No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
- Start dates
- Starts 23 Feb 2026, 19 Oct 2026
UndergraduateMAQ-ANTX1051
- Study method
- 100% online
- Entry requirements
- No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
- Start dates
- Starts 15 Dec 2025, 23 Feb 2026, 14 Dec 2026
A Primer of Marine and Antarctic Science
UndergraduateTAS-KSM101
- Study method
- 100% online
- Entry requirements
- No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
- Start dates
- Starts 2 Jan 2026, 6 Jul 2026
Next enrolment closes 25 Dec
UndergraduateTAS-KPZ006
- Study method
- 100% online
- Entry requirements
- No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
- Start dates
- Starts 23 Feb 2026, 6 Jul 2026, 2 Nov 2026
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