Mining and Mineral Engineering
A program that prepares individuals to apply mathematical and scientific principles to the design, development and operational evaluation of mineral extraction, processing and refining systems, including open pit and shaft mines, prospecting and site analysis equipment and instruments, environmental and safety systems, mine equipment and facilities, mineral processing and refining methods and systems, and logistics and communications systems.
- Schools offering
- 17
- Annual completions
- 151
- Typical degree level
- Bachelor's
- Median earnings (5yr)
- $101k
About this major
A program that prepares individuals to apply mathematical and scientific principles to the design, development and operational evaluation of mineral extraction, processing and refining systems, including open pit and shaft mines, prospecting and site analysis equipment and instruments, environmental and safety systems, mine equipment and facilities, mineral processing and refining methods and systems, and logistics and communications systems.
Where this major leads
Occupations most often associated with this major, from the federal BLS+O*NET crosswalk. Job-growth projections and median wages are national.
| Occupation | Median wage | Job growth | Typical education |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architectural and engineering managers | $168k | +3.8% | Bachelor's degree |
| Engineering teachers, postsecondary | $106k | +8.1% | Doctoral or professional degree |
| Mining and geological engineers, including mining safety engineers | $101k | +0.7% | Bachelor's degree |
Earnings at a glance
Median graduate earnings from the federal College Scorecard, 5 and 10 years out.
Median 5-year earnings
$101k
Top colleges for Mining and Mineral Engineering
Ranked by annual completions at the associate's or bachelor's level — a proxy for program scale.
| College | Location | Assoc. | Bach. | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado School of Mines | Golden, CO | 0 | 23 | 23 |
| University of Arizona | Tucson, AZ | 0 | 17 | 17 |
| University of Kentucky | Lexington, KY | 0 | 14 | 14 |
| Missouri University of Science and Technology | Rolla, MO | 0 | 14 | 14 |
| West Virginia University | Morgantown, WV | 0 | 12 | 12 |
| Montana Technological University | Butte, MT | 0 | 12 | 12 |
| South Dakota School of Mines and Technology | Rapid City, SD | 0 | 12 | 12 |
| Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University | Blacksburg, VA | 0 | 12 | 12 |
| University of Utah | Salt Lake City, UT | 0 | 11 | 11 |
| University of Nevada-Reno | Reno, NV | 0 | 7 | 7 |
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