BS-ME - B.S. in Mineral Engineering

Mineral engineering is concerned with the exploration for and development of minerals and earth Materials in the most efficient manner while protecting the environment. The undergraduate program is oriented toward developing the student’s understanding of, and skill in, engineering design. Proficiency in project management and leadership are encouraged through coursework and projects that emphasize professional-quality written and oral communication skills. The objective of the program is to provide the student with an education in the fundamentals of engineering that will allow immediate entry into industry or research work while providing a good opportunity for continued professional growth. Emphasis is placed on developing a responsible professional with a sense of social awareness.

The curriculum includes basic engineering principles that provide the foundation for applied engineering design concepts. The program provides a concentrated study in mechanics, mineral evaluation and economics, ground and environmental control, environmental issues, and project management. Engineering design is introduced in courses covering surface and underground mining, ventilation, mineral processing, equipment selection, drilling and blasting, soil and rock mechanics, hydraulic structures, and geomechanics. Instruction in the environmental aspects of minerals development and production include mine permitting and reclamation, extending to the legal issues and concerns in natural resources development.

A large-scale design project is undertaken in the senior year. This project integrates engineering principles and design in one of three areas: economic evaluation and exploration for mineral properties; design and planning of a mining project; or the planning and implementation of geotechnical construction projects, such as landfills, tailings impoundments, earth dams, and structures.

The department has modern well-equipped laboratories for instruction and research in soil and rock mechanics, ventilation, blast vibrations, mineral evaluation, and computer applications. Students are provided the opportunity to work on a wide range of applied research projects within both the department and the Institute. Students are encouraged to obtain summer jobs available in mines across the Southwest, providing excellent industrial experience.