Mining Engineering

Bachelor's Degree Program

If you like getting your hands dirty and would have fun running some of the largest man-made equipment in the world, the degree in mining engineering at UAF is for you.

Our mining engineering program is one of only 13 ABET accredited mining programs in the United States, and the only one of its kind in Alaska and the Pacific Northwest. Whereas the majority of larger schools focus mainly on coal, we are a hard-rock focused program and are uniquely positioned to prepare mining engineers for working in the Arctic. All of our graduates quickly find employment or go on to pursue advanced degrees.

This program offers numerous opportunities for hands-on learning and research, with access to state-of-the-art labs and mineral processing facilities. There are also scholarships available specifically for mining engineering students.

What Is Mining Engineering?

Mining engineering involves the science, technology and process of extracting minerals from the earth. Mining engineers design safe and efficient mines for removing coal and metals, and optimize mines for removing resources in the most efficient manner possible. Mining Engineers also help develop or improve mining equipment, and manage processing operations that separate and refine minerals.

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Quick Facts

Degree type:

  • Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Availability:

  • UAF’s main campus in Fairbanks, Alaska

Accredited by:

  • Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)

 

Why Study Mining Engineering at UAF?

Prepare for high-paying, high-demand mining engineering jobs in Alaska and around the world. These are some of the opportunities you’ll have when you study mining engineering at UAF.

Get specialized training for mining in Alaska and the Arctic

  • We are a hard-rock focused program with expertise in Arctic-related issues. We are also one of only a few programs that can offer expert help with unique placer mining (mining of stream beds) needs and other mining-related topics.

Take part in unique hands-on learning opportunities

  • We offer internship opportunities every summer, both in Alaska and out of state.

Engage in undergraduate research

  • You can participate in faculty research projects that involve field work, laboratory testing and specialized computer modeling. One of our undergraduate students recently conducted his own research through URSA while interning at Fort Knox.

 
Work in state-of-the-art facilities

  • Facilities include a mineral processing laboratory as well as state-of-the-art ventilation and rock mechanics laboratory facilities. The Mineral Industry Research Lab (MIRL) also has a well-equipped coal lab for conducting cutting edge coal-based research.

 
Participate in mining engineering professional organizations

  • Our student chapter of the Society of Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration (SME) offers opportunities to present research, attend presentations, meet and network with professionals and vendors and find internship opportunities.

 
Work closely with award-winning faculty

  • Our faculty have won nationally competitive research grants, conference paper awards, professional awards and teaching awards. Our faculty also have a strong national presence and regularly serve on various committees within SME and on Journal Editorial Boards.

 

What Can You Do With a Degree in Mining Engineering?

Alaska has the second highest concentration of mining and geological engineering jobs of any state in the nation. In the mining and engineering program at UAF, you’ll gain the unique skills and hands-on training to succeed in this growing job market. It’s why all of our graduates find jobs or go on to graduate school after earning their bachelor’s degrees.

We also provide our graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to work in a variety of other fields related to geological engineering.

 

 

Mining Engineering Degree Requirements

The degree in mining engineering explores areas such as ventilation, operations research, rock mechanics, system simulation, neural networks, mine planning and scheduling, mine safety and health, mineral processing and hydrometallurgy and also CFD and Arctic-related phenomena. Most classes integrate laboratory and field experiences.

View all required classes for the degree in mining engineering

Bachelor’s Degree Programs Related to Mining Engineering

 

Get Started on Your Bachelor’s Degree in Mining Engineering

Take the next step toward earning your mining engineering degree. We have the resources to help you get started.

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Have questions? Our expert advisors are here to guide you every step of the way. Let us know how we can help.

Transfer to UAF

Transferring to UAF? We can walk you through the process and help make sure you get the most out of the credits you’ve earned.

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Earn your bachelor’s degree in mining engineering at UAF. Submit your application online today.