Key facts
UNE unit code: SOIL431
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 3 - Online
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 6
Unit information
Build on your prior learning through a range of advanced soil science topics integral to sustainable soil resource management in an era of rapid change and scientific innovation.
The unit provides you with interactive and investigative learning opportunities, developing your understanding of different areas of soil science and applications in real-world contexts.
You will explore a range of current issues of significance in climate, population and sustainable resource use debates around the world including pollution, global nutrient balances, climate change and carbon farming, soil health assessment and soil education.
Facilitated online forums allow you to develop autonomy, independent judgement and articulate your learning, as you analyse, evaluate and discuss current issues of worldwide significance.
Accreditation
SOIL431 – Soils in Practice contributes to the educational requirements for Soil Science Australia Certified Professional Soil Scientist (CPSS) and Registered Soil Practitioner (RSP) accreditation.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 3 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Should you require 'permission of unit coordinator'-follow the steps below:
1. Contact the unit coordinator in writing (email).
2. Enrol online in the unit, completing the "waive prerequisites" form and attaching the Unit Coordinator's written approval.
3. Make contact via AskUNE in the event of any difficulties with the above steps.
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- discuss current soil science issues in topical areas to demonstrate an advanced theoretical and technical knowledge of the subject and competency in communicating this information to others in written or verbal form;
- demonstrate the ability to analyse critically, evaluate, summarise and communicate information on current soil science issues;
- demonstrate an ability to apply insight and acquired knowledge on pertinent soil science issues into debates and professional practices; and
- generate and transmit solutions to complex problems in soil science today.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assignment 1 | Yes | 20% | All offerings | Introductory written assessment on soil science topics. No. Words: 2000 |
| Assignment 2 | Yes | 30% | All offerings | Advanced written assignment on soil science topics. No. Words: 3000 |
| Oral Examination 1 - Assurance Task | Yes | 20% | All offerings | Assessed Panel discussion. Approximately 20 minutes. To pass this unit, you must achieve a minimum cumulative total of 50% across Oral Examination 1 – Assurance Task and Oral Examination 2 – Assurance Task, and meet all other passing requirements in the unit. There is a supervised Oral Examination during the teaching period in which you are enrolled. The exam will be online with supervision via webcam and screen sharing technology. Coordinated by the School. |
| Oral Examination 2 - Assurance Task | Yes | 30% | All offerings | Individual assessment of integrated knowledge on topics. Approximately 15 minutes. To pass this unit, you must achieve a minimum cumulative total of 50% across Oral Examination 1 – Assurance Task and Oral Examination 2 – Assurance Task, and meet all other passing requirements in the unit. There is a supervised Oral Examination during the teaching period in which you are enrolled. The exam will be online with supervision via webcam and screen sharing technology. Coordinated by the School. |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Textbook information will be displayed approximately 8 weeks prior to the commencement of the teaching period. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
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