Engineers are responsible for the design and upkeep of mining sites.
Mining engineering is the field of applying geological and engineering principles in the pursuit of mineral resources. Mining engineers are responsible for identifying profitable mining areas, the creation of new mines, the safe upkeep and analysis of open mines and, sometimes,` the closure of exhausted mines. Like most engineering programs, mining degrees can be conferred at the collegiate or graduate level.
Types of Mining Degrees
Many schools offer a Bachelor of Science in Mining Engineering degree. This is a four-year program that lays the foundational skills of mathematics, civil and structural engineering and geological analysis. Many mining engineers seek a higher degree at the graduate level. This generally leads to a Master of Science degree in Mining Engineering, but many go on to pursue a research doctorate (Ph.D.). Some schools do not offer a bachelor's degree in mining but have a Bachelor of Science in Engineering degree with an optional minor in mining.
Universities with Mining Engineering Programs
In the United States, there are 14 schools with mining programs accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology: University of Alaska Fairbanks; University of Arizona; Colorado School of Mines; University of Kentucky; Missouri University of Science and Technology; Montana Tech of the University of Montana; University of Nevada-Reno; New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology; Pennsylvania State University; South Dakota School of Mines and Technology; Southern Illinois University at Carbondale; University of Utah; Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University; and West Virginia University.
Preparing for a Degree in Mining Engineering
Most graduate programs in mining engineering consider the student's college course work, grades, standardized test scores (commonly the GRE) and letters of recommendation. Successful applicants typically have a bachelor's degree in engineering and a strong background in mathematics and natural sciences. Of special importance is previous course work in geological sciences.
Courses of Study in Mining Engineering
An MS in Mining Engineering typically requires upward of 20 credit hours of graduate study. In addition to classes specifically referring to mining, many programs require classes related to geophysics or geostatistics. Some universities require a thesis for completion of an MS degree in mining engineering. A doctoral thesis is almost always required for completion of a Ph.D.
Tags: Mining Engineering, bachelor degree, Bachelor Science, course work, Engineering degree, graduate level
