Program Overview

Graduate Diploma in Mine Geotechnical Engineering

The Graduate Diploma in Mine Geotechnical Engineering is designed for professionals who want to work in the mining industry with expertise in ground/strata control. This postgraduate qualification caters to people with different backgrounds, whether they have tertiary qualifications and/or relevant experience.

Program Overview

This degree teaches practical knowledge to become a mine strata control engineer. The program is designed to build on the student's expertise in mine geotechnical engineering alongside their current professional role.

Commencing Terms

• Term 1

Duration

• 1 Year(s)

Delivery Mode

• Face-to-face (includes blended)

Campus

• Kensington

Codes

• Program code: 5059
• CRICOS code: Not specified

Entry Requirements

Access to mine site information is essential to complete the requirements of these programs. The possible entry paths are as follows:

1. Entry requires a degree in Mining Engineering or Civil Engineering or Geosciences disciplines (3 or 4 years) from a recognised institution. A minimum 65% average is required over the final two years of the degree. Significant industry experience in underground mining is strongly recommended.
2. Those with limited tertiary qualifications require at least two years of relevant responsible industry experience or permission from the Head of School or Director of Postgraduate Studies (Coursework). An entry portfolio is required with the following:

• A cover letter explaining motivations for mining
• Details on mathematics courses completed in high school and university
• Contact details of two referees in CV
• Evidence of any relevant training, e.g., Mine certificates, VET training certificates, other non-related degree transcripts All applicants should submit a detailed CV with their application. This program does not allow international students to enrol on a student visa.

English Language Requirements

You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on your educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments, and examinations. If youre completing an Australian Year 12 qualification, you do not need to provide anything extra to prove your proficiency. Your qualification will be used as evidence of your English proficiency.

Program Structure

This degree is designed to build on your expertise in mine geotechnical engineering alongside your current professional role. In your first year, youll study the Principles of Mining Excavations and other core subjects, including:

• Hazard Identification, Risk and Safety Management in Mining
• Mining Geomechanics
• Geotechnical Data Collection and Analysis
• Mine Geology and Geophysics for Mining Operations Electives in this degree include:
• Mining Methods, Mine Planning and Applied Geomechanics
• Ground Control Principles and Practice in Underground Mining
• Mine Slope Stability
• Mine Slope Monitoring Technologies
• Sustainable Tailings Management

Fees

• 2026 Indicative First Year Full Fee: $45,000*
• 2026 Indicative Full Fee to Complete Degree: $45,000*
• 2026 Indicative First Year Fee (International): $61,000*
• 2026 Indicative Fee to Complete Degree (International): $62,000*

Scholarships

At UNSW, we award over $83 million in scholarships each year. We pride ourselves on rewarding excellence and making university accessible to students from all walks of life. Whether youre a domestic or international student, our range of scholarships, prizes, and awards can support your journey.