Mining Engineering
Bachelor’s Degree
Build Your Future Today
The Bachelor of Science in Mining Engineering program at Â鶹·ÖÐÐ prepares engineers who can apply scientific theory, engineering principles and the latest technology to recover natural resources from the earth. Graduates will be able to tackle the problems of both hard and soft rock mining, whether the mineral deposit requires surface or underground methods of extraction.
In addition, undergraduate students who complete the program will be equipped with the skills, foundational knowledge and passion to fill roles in a variety of fields where the earth’s crust is utilized, such as underground construction.
Core topics in our mining engineering undergraduate program include:
- Rock mechanics
- Rock fragmentation
- Plant and mine design
- Mine ventilation
- Surveying
- Valuation
- Industrial hygiene
- Mineral law
- Mine safety
- Computing
- Mineral processing
- Solution mining
- Operational research
Learn more about our #1 ranked undergraduate program here:Â
Experiential major menus
Uniquely tailored to your undergraduate major of choice, these menus offer a wide array of extra-curricular activities that complement and enrich the traditional classroom experience.
Explore the extra-curricular activities that complement your degree.
Mining Engineering at a glance
#1 minerals and mining engineering program in the world (QS World Ranking)
Operates the Edgar Experimental Mine
Proud member of the Earth and Society programs
Summer internship opportunities
Mines mining engineering students study the principles and techniques of mineral exploration, and underground and surface mining operations, as well as, mineral processing technologies. Studies include rock mechanics, rock fragmentation, plant and mine design, mine ventilation, surveying, valuation, industrial hygiene, mineral law, mine safety, computing, mineral processing, solution mining and operations research. Throughout the mining engineering curriculum, a constant effort is made to maintain a balance between theoretical principles and their engineering applications. The mining engineering graduate is qualified for positions in engineering, supervision and research.
Available Minors
- Mining Engineering
- Explosive Engineering
- Space Mining
- Underground Construction & Tunneling
Suggested careers for mining engineering majors:
- Mining engineer
- Geological engineer
- Mining safety engineer
- Exploration geologist
- Planning engineer
- Mining researcher
- Production supervisor
- Quality assurance manager
Faculty Spotlight
Dr. Elizabeth Holley
Having earned her PhD in Geology from Mines in 2012, Dr. Holley returns to campus as an associate professor in Mining Engineering. Her research interests include public policy and public participation, mineral exploration vectors and genetic models, pedagogical innovation in STEM education and more.Â
Dr. Holley is a member of SEG, SMA and GSA and has received numerous awards and honors, including serving as a Rotary Ambassadorial Scholar to New Zealand. She teaches a variety of courses in Geology and Mining Engineering and has published dozens of scholarly articles and book chapters.
Making Mines more affordable
Mines’ financial assistance program awards more than $60 million per year, and over 82 percent of the student body receives some form of financial aid.
Why study mining engineering at Mines?
Simply enough, it’s in our name. The study and practice of mining has been a pillar of Â鶹·ÖÐÐ since its founding in 1874. Since then, we’ve worked hard to develop a world-class mining engineering program to prepare our students to face the challenges of tomorrow. And this hard work has paid off. According to QS World Ranking, Mines is the #1 minerals and mining engineering program in the world.
Why do so many students choose Mines?
- Hands-on research opportunities in our Edgar Mine
- Work with high-profile faculty with both industry and research experience
- Study in beautiful Golden, Colorado adjacent to the Colorado Mineral Belt
- Summer internship opportunities
- Attend the annual SME Conference
Career Outcomes
Mining is an essential profession across the world and focuses on the extraction of metal ores, non-metallics, and solid fuel and energy sources, such as coal and even nuclear materials. Many of the top careers for mining engineering students include:
- Mining Engineer
- Geologic Technician
- Explosive Engineer
- Field Engineer
- Open Pit Engineer
- Tunneling Engineer
Additionally, skills you’ll learn in our mining engineering program are also applicable for a variety of other fields, such as the underground construction industry. Many of our graduates have also gone on to positions in supervision, research and consulting. At Mines, we’re proud to have close industry partnerships that help our students secure rewarding careers at companies such as:
- Northern Star
- Freeport-McMoRan
- Rio Tinto
- Vulcan
- Byrnecut
With an undergraduate degree from Mines, you’ll have the skills and specialized knowledge to thrive as a professional in the world of mining.