INSTITUTIONS OFFERING SOIL SCIENCE LISTED AT THE BOTTOM
WHAT IS SOIL SCIENCE AND WHO IS A SOIL SCIENTIST?
Soil science involves the study of the soil as a resource on the surface of the earth. This programme provides knowledge and skills in management of soil resources upon which all agricultural activities are based. It includes the study of various agricultural activities such as animal and crop production, farm management and extension methods all of which are applied in the context of managing soil resources.
A soil scientist is a person who specializes in the field of social science at a university or college. They study the upper few meters of the earth’s crust in terms of its physical and chemical properties, distribution, formation, morphology and its biological components. Soil scientists mainly apply their knowledge and skills in agricultural related fields such as land husbandry, soil fertility, irrigation management and research.
WHERE DO SOIL SCIENTISTS WORK?
Soil scientists may work for government in the ministry of agriculture, and also for the local government serving in both city and district councils. Here, they advise policy makers on issues regarding soil and water management, waste disposal, road and infrastructure development and they help protect the environment from natural hazards like unsustainable climate change.
Soil scientists also work in other government and non-governmental agencies such as Zambia environmental management agency (ZEMA), water and sewerage companies, conservation farming unit (CFU), and the food and agriculture organisation (FAO). The work in these agencies focuses on things such as pollution monitoring, conservation farming, climate smart agriculture etc. In water and sewerage companies, soil scientists are employed to work as soil and water quality experts.
Some soil scientists work as consultants for farmers and other land users. They offer professional counsel to these farm and land owners on how to manage land and water resources. They may also work in higher learning institutions as lecturers and/or researchers.
WHAT TASKS ARE INVOLVED IN THEIR WORK?
The specific tasks involved in the work of a soil scientist depends on where they work. Those working in government agencies regulate the use of land and soil resources by both the private and public sectors. This involves inspecting projects and activities relating to soil use. They conduct soil surveys through collection of soil samples which are then analysed in a lab. The data from such analyses is used to advise on the capabilities and limitations of soils (e.g., agroforestry, watershed rehabilitation projects, transportation planning, crop or livestock production, and recreation development). They also monitor the effects of farm, ranch and forest activities on soil productivity.
Those consulting for farm owners conduct soil testing in order to guide on crop choice and nutrient requirements. They also analyse water, plants, fertilisers and manures for soil fertility. This is done so that they can make proper fertiliser and lime recommendations, as well as irrigation design and installation.
WHAT IS THE WORK SCHEDULE?
The typical work schedule of a soil scientist is 08:00hrs – 17:00hrs from Monday to Friday.
WHAT DOES THE JOB MARKET LOOK LIKE?
The job market for soil scientists is good because of the many places where their services are required. Soil scientists can work as researchers, hydrologists, soil and water quality experts, soil conservationists, field evaluators in crop production etc.
WHAT SORT OF CAREER PERSONALITY MATCH IS REQUIRED?
A soil scientist must be an environmentalist by nature, interested in the protection and conservation of the natural environment. They must also be a person that is interested in scientific research and working outdoors. To enjoy studying this program you must have had an interest in subjects such a Biology, Chemistry, Geography and Agricultural Science.
INSTITUTIONS OFFERING SOIL SCIENCE LISTED AT THE BOTTOM
WHAT SUBJECTS WILL THE PROGRAM COVER?
Courses covered during the study of this program are A’ level Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry and Biology in the first year. In the following years, the courses that are covered include Agro-climatology, Soil Fertility and Amendments, Soil Chemistry and Mineralogy, Soil and Plant Analysis, Soil Genesis and Classification, Agricultural Hydraulics, Irrigation Design and Drainage Systems, Land Husbandry and Land Evaluation and Improvement.
WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS?
The minimum entry requirements for this program are five O’ level credits (grade 6) or better, inclusive of Mathematics, English and Science. Because science programs at university are competitive, you need to have scored at least 12 points in your best 6 subjects at grade 12 to stand a good chance being accepted.
WHAT ARE THE FUTURE ADVANCED QUALIFICATIONS AVAILABLE AND WHY?
After obtaining a degree in soil science, you can advance your qualification by pursuing a master’s in related fields such as Agronomy, Integrated Soil Fertility Management, Sustainable Land and Environmental Management or Aquaculture. These qualifications allow for specialisation in a particular field of soil science. Specialising sets you apart from the rest and gives you more job opportunities and in higher positions especially abroad. With a master’s, you can also lecture at a university.
INSTITUTIONS THAT OFFER SOIL SCIENCE
UNIVERSITY OF ZAMBIA
Programme duration: 5 years (Degree) / 2 years (Master’s)
Mode of study: Full-time and Part-time
Admitting school: School of Natural Sciences
Intakes: January
Location: Lusaka
Contacts
Tel: +260 21 1250587
E-mail: dean-agric@unza.zm
Website: www.unza.zm/academics/undergraduate/bachelor-of-agricultural-sciences-soil-sciences