Plant and soil science

Plant and soil science is an interdisciplinary field that focuses on the study of plant biology and how plants interact with soil.

You’ll learn about the chemical, physical and biological properties of soil, as well as the genetics, morphology and ecology of plants.

You’ll also develop skills in land use and management, and sustainable food production.

As an undergraduate, you can specialise in plant ecology and sustainability, plant biotechnology and molecular plant science, or plant pathology, with honours programs requiring research projects.

As a graduate, you can pursue a variety of careers in industry, government, research and education. Career opportunities include roles as plant breeders, biotechnologists, agricultural producers, water catchment managers, conservationists, ecologists, horticulturists, and pathologists, and more.

You’ll work for multinational companies, research agencies such as CSIRO, government departments, or run your own businesses.

Why choose plant and soil science at UQ? 

You’ll learn from world leaders in research for plant biology, crop and pasture production, soil sciences, genetics and horticultural production.

You’ll have access to excellent facilities for cropping, pastures and horticulture studies, including our upgraded laboratories and UQ’s Gatton-based broadacre farm.

Our strong connections with industry facilitate practical and integrated learning, and industry placements will enable you to build on your knowledge and skills, and experience real-world applications outside the university environment. For example, industry placements and an international study tour to Indonesia offer further chances to apply your knowledge and skills in real-world situations.

Plant and soil science graduates are in high demand, both domestically and internationally, and we’re renowned for producing outstanding Gatton-trained agronomists and horticulturalists.

Choose your program

Browse our programs within this study area.

For answers to frequently asked questions, and information about program structures, applications, fees and student life, visit Study at UQ.