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What To Learn

High School

What high school courses should you take if you're interested in this career? Get your answers from the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics cluster Engineering and Technology pathway.

Beyond High School

Here's a list of programs that you should consider if you're interested in this career:

Education Level

Education training and experience are required at different levels for success in different occupations.

Bachelor's degree

Mining and geological engineers, including a mining safety engineers, typically need a bachelor's degree in engineering to enter the occupation.

Insider Info

Additional Information

"Students will be required to take the same math and science courses that all engineering fields require," says mining engineering consultant Edward Hollop.

These include advanced classes such as physics, chemistry, engineering mechanics, economics, geology, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, electric circuits and machinery. Mining-specific courses may include drilling and blasting, materials handling, rock mechanics, mine safety, ventilation, mineral analysis, and mine planning and operation.

Good grades are essential, says mining engineering professor John Mossop. "Make sure you don't have to repeat anything and keep grades above 70, preferably between 80 and 90. We need people with good communication skills and preparation."

Kathryn Rogers is a mining engineer. "If you want to do international work, mining is an excellent way," she says. "It's a lot of fun and a great challenge. Because so few people go into mining engineering, you're pretty much guaranteed a job. If you're interested in the business end, mining is an excellent way to make the step up."

Extra Requirements

Mining engineers are not required to be licensed at the entry level. More experienced mining engineers, who assume more responsibility, usually earn the Professional Engineer (PE) license.

For additional information, visit these websites:

Contact

  • Email Support
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    From outside the U.S., please call +1 (424) 750-3900
  • North Dakota Career Resource Network
    ndcrn@nd.gov | (701) 328-9733

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