Mining Engineering

Woman in front of a truck in front of a mineral mining area

Why Study Mining Engineering

Mining plays an essential role in modern life. Minerals are used in everything from smartphones and transportation to renewable energy technologies. Mining engineers design and manage the systems used to safely and efficiently extract these resources while reducing environmental impact and supporting responsible land use.

The Mining stream of the Bachelor of Engineering in Resource Engineering prepares students to work on complex resource projects that require technical expertise, environmental awareness and strong project management skills.

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The Saint Mary's Approach

Mining Engineering students begin with strong engineering foundation that includes core courses in engineering science, materials, geology and environmental systems. As they progress through the program, students take specialized courses focused on the science and engineering behind mineral extraction and processing. This approach ensures graduates understand both the technical systems used in mining and the environmental and social responsibilities that come with resource development.

Hands-on Learning

Students gain practical experience through laboratories, field studies and engineering design projects. These activities introduce students to real mining challenges such as rock stability, mineral processing and mine planning.

Future Careers

Mining engineers are needed in a range of industries involved in resource development and environmental management.

Graduates may work in areas such as:

mine design and planning
underground and surface mining operations
mineral processing
mine closure and reclamation
environmental monitoring and management
engineering consulting

Mining Engineers play an important role in ensuring that mineral resources are developed safely, efficiently and responsibly.

Sample Courses

Sample courses

Surface Mining Methods
Underground Mining Methods
Rock Mechanics
Focused Mine Equipment and Services
Mineral Processing and Water Management
Structural Geology
Geological Mapping
Environmental Impact Assessment

"My first geology course was one of my favourite courses at SMU, and it strengthened my decision to choose mining as a career. The faculty at SMU are so engaging—they genuinely care about your education and have all the expertise to produce sought-after graduates entering the industry. As a Mining Engineer working in Nova Scotia, I applaud Saint Mary's for recognizing the education stream gap in Mining and Renewable Energy and I encourage all engineering students to pursue this incredibly rewarding career."

Bailee Williams, Diploma in Engineering

Engineering

Ever wonder what it’s like to study engineering at Saint Mary’s University? On our first episode of Majorly Speaking, sit down and find out with Professor Don MacNeil, second-year student Bri Lawton, and a special furry guest, Bert—Engineering’s Chief Morale Officer.

Learn more about the engineering program.

Watch our engineering episode