About Mining

The process of extracting valuable resources from the earth is known as mining. Coal, gold, and iron ore are just a few examples of mined materials. Thes ores are then further processing to produce valuable items for example iron ore is the raw material used to make metal kitchenware. These ores are transformed into new technologies acorss all industries, including civil, chemical, construction, nuclear, aerospace, and agriculture.

　　A Mining engineering programme prepares students to design, develop and manage systems for extracting vaulable ores and resource from the earth. Students during the course of their studies learn mine designing, valuation and development of mineral properties, mine research, mineral consulting, mine explosives, geoglogy, mine aerosols, sustainable mining and mine reclamation techniques.

　　

Is studying Mining right for me?

Mine engineers are industrious individuals who love to take on a challenge. They have to work in extreme dangerous situations, so this field is not for the faint-hearted ones. They need to be strong and healthy to lift and carry heavy material and load into trucks or cars. Mining engineers typically have strong problem-solving and analytical skills. Furthermore, as mine engineers usually lead teams of mine workers, they have to have strong leadership and interpersonal skills. If the idea of working mines is fascinating for you, then Mining is a good choice for you.

　　

Study options and costs

　　The qualifications required to work as a Miner depend on the type of role and mine you want to work in. In addition to traineeships and apprenticeships, there are opportunities through vocational courses in Mining and Drilling. You may also require special driver's licenses, as well as security and medical certifications. Consider getting a Diploma level qualification in mining management if you want to work your way up to being a Mine Manager.

　　For formal education, the students wishing to opt for a career in Mining engineering needs to complete a bachelor’s programme which usually takes around 4 to 5 years to complete in the US. The programme costs approximately $30,973 but it could vary depending upon the school you attend. The undergraduate programme in the UK costs around $88,276-$147,126.

　　Upon completion of the undergraduate programme, students advance their careers by completing a graduate programme in Mining Engineering. The master’s programme is completed in 4 years and in some cases if industrial experience is provided, it could take 5 years to complete too. The programme costs around £9,250-£28,000 per annum in the UK.

　　

Future outlook

As the world population continues to grow, the demand for more energy and mineral goods has also spiraled upwards. As a result, mining professionals continue being in demand and there’s a steady 4% growth in jobs projected over the coming years.

　　

Career pathways  for Mining graduates

　　

Mining Engineer

　　Mining engineers help remove underground resources such as minerals, metals, oil, and gas safely and efficiently. They are responsible for assessing the feasibility and potential of newly explored sites, identify extraction risks, predict costs, design mines, and oversee mining operations.

　　

Miner

　　As a miner, you will be responsible for operating specialised heavy machinery, drilling, blasting, and excavating ore bodies, putting ore onto trucks and automobiles, and adding lighting, cabling, and pump services to the mine. You'll also be in charge of operating heavy machinery, pumping out air, water, and mud, and identifying and reporting any potential safety risks.

　　

Geological Engineer

　　As a geological engineer, you'll be in charge of looking for mineral deposits and assessing potential sites. After you've found a suitable location, you'll need to figure out how to extract the metals or minerals in an effective and environmentally friendly manner.