A master's degree in mining engineering is a
logical next step for working professionals in the mining industry who
want to advance to a position with more authority. It is also a viable
option for people seeking a career in mining who already have a science
or engineering degree. Though rare, master's degree programs in mining
engineering are available online.
Online Master of Engineering in Mining Engineering and Technology Overview
Only a small number of schools offer any kind of mining technology
and mining engineering programs. Mining technology associate's degree
programs are not available online, but in rare instances mining
engineering master's degree programs are. They aim to teach students how
to solve problems at existing mines, operate both surface and
underground mining operations and develop the abilities to design mines
and equip a mining operation. Enrollment requires a bachelor's degree in
engineering or one of the hard sciences and GRE scores above a given
school's admission threshold.
An online master's degree program in mining engineering may be
completed totally online unless the program has a lab requirement, which
has to be completed on-campus. Pre-recorded lectures, readings and
assignments are accessible via a school's website at the convenience of
students. Student-professor interactions are handled through online
forums, e-mail or the phone. Assignments and classes have to be
completed by specified deadlines. A master's degree is typically earned
in 2-3 years.
Students need a multimedia-capable
computer
with Internet access to take part in an online mining engineering
program. Schools may use an educational content administration software
system or streaming video to delivery content. An institution may
archive courses for easy review.
List of Common Mining Engineering Courses
Master's degree programs in mining engineering are generally divided
into required core courses, elective courses and a design project or
thesis. Some programs may offer a non-thesis option.
Rock Mechanics Course
This course explores the properties of rock with particular emphasis
on its load-bearing capabilities. Topics covered in the course include
elasticity and non-elasticity, wall stability, stress characteristics
and testing methods.
Surface Mining Course
The planning,
construction
and operation of different types of surface mines are the central focus
of this course. Coursework examines strip, open pit and placer mines
and quarries and the equipment needed for each.
Underground Mining Course
Students investigate the process of designing, digging and running
safe and viable underground mines. They consider room-and-pillar
arrangements, ventilation and lighting in the design portion and the
types of equipment an underground mine needs in the construction and
operation portion.
Mine Safety Course
Students consider in greater depth the need for structural integrity
and air quality assurance in mining operations. Coursework explores
advanced design principles and technologies under development.
An online master's degree in mining engineering prepares graduates to
become mine safety engineers and mining and geological engineers. It
may be particularly helpful to engineers and other professionals in the
mining industry who want to advance to supervisory or research and
development positions. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that
rising demand for minerals, coupled with retirements in the industry,
will contribute to a 15% growth in employment for mining engineers over
the years 2008-2018.
Payscale.com reports that as of May 2010, mining engineers with 1-4 years of experience earned a median salary of $56,817-$67,704.
Mining engineers who want to teach at the postsecondary level or
devote all of their attention to academic research can consider earning a
doctoral degree in mining engineering. As of June 2010, Ph.D. mining
engineering programs are not available online.
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