Program Overview
Mining Engineering (Geomechanics Track)
Overview
Mining engineers find new ways to improve mining operations and use and preserve natural resources. The world depends on mining engineers to advance all aspects of mineral extraction, from mine design and transfer of materials to land reclamation. Students in the Bachelor of Science in Mining Engineering program immerse themselves in specific areas of study, such as mine operations, geomechanics, sustainable resources and mineral processing. They gain work experience in the student-run San Xavier Underground Mine and network with industry leaders through the J. David Lowell Institute of Mineral Resources and national professional societies. Paid internships and sponsored capstone projects provide opportunities for undergraduates to work with mining and energy companies and equipment firms. Graduates are well prepared for fast entry into jobs around the globe.
Program Details
Sample Courses
- MNE 297A: Underground Mine Safety
- MNE 396A: Technical Trends in Mineral Resource Engineering
- MNE 438: Underground Mine Design
Career Fields
- Mining operations
- Minerals extraction
- Sustainable resources
- Construction
- Mineworker health and safety
WUE Eligible?
Yes, at Main Campus
WUE students attending the UA pay 150% of the in-state resident tuition. Residency in a participating state is not a guarantee of admission to a WUE program. In addition to the UA admission requirements, some WUE programs at the UA have additional criteria such as higher minimum SAT/ACT test scores or high school GPAs. Some programs may also set a limit on the number of WUE students they accept each year due. Information on the WUE programs offered by the UA is available by selecting either UA Main or UA South.
Level of Math
Substantial Knowledge
This strand involves skill and facility with calculus. The S-strand begins at one of two calculus options - MATH 122A/B (Functions for Calculus and First-Semester Calculus) or MATH 125 (Calculus I). Students who successfully complete the S-strand may continue on to MATH 129 (Calculus II), MATH 223 (Vector Calculus), or beyond. Those who choose but are not ready to begin the S-strand will be required to take preparatory work.
Level of Second Language
None
Second language is not required.
Pre-major Required?
No
Additional Admissions Requirements
This major has additional admission criteria. Please see the College of Engineering website for more information.
This Major's College
College of Engineering
Degree
Bachelor of Science in Mining Engineering
Sample Plans
2025, Mining Engineering (Geomechanics Track)
- 4-Year Sample Plan
- Map Transfer Coursework
- Plan Ahead with a Transfer Pathway
First Year
- 1st Semester
- MATH 122A/B or MATH 125 Calculus I with Applications
- CHEM 151 General Chemistry I or CHEM 161/163
- ENGL 101 or 107 or 109H First-Year Composition
- ENGR 102A/B Introduction to Engineering or ENGR 102
- Introduction to the General Education Experience (Entry Course)
- 2nd Semester
- MATH 129 Calculus II
- CHEM 152 General Chemistry II or MSE 110 Solid State Chemistry or CHEM 162/164
- ENGL 102 or 108 First-Year Composition
- PHYS 141 Introductory Mechanics or PHYS 161H
- GE Core: Exploring Perspectives or Building Connections
Second Year
- 3rd Semester
- CE 214 Statics
- GEOS 251 Physical Geology
- MATH 223 Vector Calculus
- MNE 205 Introduction to Mining Engineering
- MNE 296A Mineral Resource Engineering Topics
- MNE 297A Underground Mine Safety (offered the week prior to start of the fall semester)
- GE Core: Exploring Perspectives or Building Connections
- 4th Semester
- CE 215 Mechanics of Solids
- MATH 254 Intro to Ordinary Differential Equations or MATH 355
- MNE 210 Mineralogy and Petrology for Engineers (Spring Only)
- MNE 204 Introduction to Electric Circuits & Mine Power Systems
- GE Core: Exploring Perspectives or Building Connections
Third Year
- 5th Semester
- CE 218 Mechanics of Fluids
- MNE 422 Sustainable Resource Development
- MNE 426 Health & Safety
- MNE 427 Geomechanics
- MNE 430 Mine Examination and Valuation
- MNE 444 Geopositioning for Mining Applications
- 6th Semester
- MNE 396A Technical Trends in Mineral Resource Engineering
- MNE 419 Mine Planning Software (offered the week prior to start of the SPRING semester)
- MNE 436 Surface Mine Design
- MNE 438 Underground Mine Design
- MNE 476 Mine Ventilation
- Technical Elective - See major advisor for approval
- GE Core: Exploring Perspectives or Building Connections
Fourth Year
- 7th Semester
- MNE 407 Equipment Operations Technology
- MNE 415 Rock Excavation
- MNE 498 Senior Design
- GEOS 304 Structural Geology
- MNE 402 Probability & Statistics Concepts In Geologic Media OR SIE 305 Intro to Engr Probability
- 8th Semester
- MNE 447 Underground Construction
- MNE 498 Senior Design
- MNE 417 Tailings Storage Facility Design (Planning, Design & Analysis) or CE 343 Soil Mechanics
- MNE 417 L Tailings Storage Facility Design Lab or CE 349 Soils Laboratory (Offered Spring 2019 and Fall 2019)
- GE Core: Exploring Perspectives or Building Connections
- GE Core: Exploring Perspectives or Building Connections
- General Education Portfolio (Exit Course)
Program Outline
Careers:
- Mining operations
- Minerals extraction
- Sustainable resources
- Construction
- Mineworker health and safety
Other:
- Students gain work experience in the student-run San Xavier Underground Mine.
- Students network with industry leaders through the J. David Lowell Institute of Mineral Resources and national professional societies.
- Paid internships and sponsored capstone projects provide opportunities for undergraduates to work with mining and energy companies and equipment firms.
University of Arizona
Overview:
The University of Arizona, located in Tucson, Arizona, is the state's land-grant institution and its first university. It is known for its world-changing research and discovery, with a focus on innovation and impact. The university boasts a diverse student body and offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines.
Services Offered:
The University of Arizona provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Academic Resources:
Libraries, class registration, academic advising, and international engagement opportunities.Student Life:
Housing, dining, student clubs and organizations, athletics, and campus amenities.Financial Aid:
Scholarships and financial aid for undergraduate and graduate students.Research Opportunities:
Hands-on research experiences for students across various fields.Campus Safety:
Emergency information, Title IX resources, and annual security reports.Accessibility:
Resources and support for students with disabilities.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at the University of Arizona can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university fosters a strong sense of community through its numerous student clubs and organizations, athletic events, and traditions. The campus is located in Tucson, a city known for its rich culture, diverse cuisine, and proximity to the Sonoran Desert.
Key Reasons to Study There:
World-Class Research:
The University of Arizona is a top-ranking research institution with a strong focus on innovation and discovery.Diverse Academic Programs:
Students can choose from over 150 majors and programs of study across 21 colleges and schools.Engaging Campus Life:
The university offers a vibrant student life with numerous clubs, organizations, and athletic events.Tucson Location:
The campus is located in a vibrant city with a rich culture and diverse amenities.Strong Alumni Network:
The University of Arizona has a large and active alumni network that provides support and opportunities for graduates.Academic Programs:
The University of Arizona offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate Majors:
Over 150 majors across various disciplines, including business, engineering, science, humanities, and the arts.Graduate Programs:
A variety of graduate programs, including master's and doctoral degrees.Professional Education & Certification:
Programs for professional development and certification in various fields.Other:
The University of Arizona is committed to diversity and inclusion, and it strives to build sustainable relationships with Native Nations and Indigenous communities. The university also has a strong focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility.
