Mining Engineering

Mining Engineering at the University of New South Wales offers a comprehensive and rigorous education designed to prepare students for a successful career in the resource extraction industry. This program combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, emphasizing sustainable practices, safety standards, and innovative technologies. Students will explore core subjects such as geology, mineral processing, rock mechanics, geotechnical engineering, and environmental management, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of the entire mining process from exploration to rehabilitation. The curriculum integrates theoretical coursework with extensive laboratory work, field trips, and industry projects, providing hands-on experience that is vital for practical understanding and skill development. The program is supported by state-of-the-art facilities, including laboratories equipped with the latest mining and mineral processing technology. Students also benefit from partnerships with leading mining companies and industry professionals, facilitating internships and real-world project collaborations that enhance employability and industry readiness. The university’s strong focus on innovation and research within the Mining Engineering discipline encourages students to engage with cutting-edge topics such as automation, digitalization, and sustainable resource management. Graduates of the program are equipped to work in various sectors within the mining industry, including exploration, extraction, safety management, environmental consulting, and resource development. The program fosters a global perspective, preparing students to operate effectively in international contexts and adhere to the highest standards of ethical and sustainable practice. Overall, the Mining Engineering program at UNSW aims to produce competent, innovative, and responsible professionals who can contribute to the advancement of the global mining industry while promoting environmental stewardship and community welfare.

Two specialisation streams are offered in this program:

• Master of Mining Engineering (Mine Geomechanics) Plan MINEJS8335 - 7 core courses and 5 electives (total of 72 UOC)
• Master of Mining Engineering (Mine Management) Plan MINEPS8335 - 5 core courses and 7 electives (total of 72 UOC)

Mine Geomechanics - MINEJS8335

Group A Core courses

Foundation disciplinary:

• GSOE9010 Eng PG Coursework Res Skills (6 UOC)

OR

• GSOE9011 Eng PGCW Research Skills (6 UOC)

PLUS

• MINE8101 Fundamentals of Mining Eng (6 UOC)

Advanced disciplinary:

• MINE8115 Mine Processes, Syst and Anal (6 UOC)
• MINE8120 Hazard ID, Risk and Safety Mgt (6 UOC)
• MINE8140 Mining Geomechanics (6 UOC)
• MINE8440 Mining Industry Research Proj (6 UOC)
• MINE8760 Mine Geol & Geophysics (6 UOC)

Group B Elective courses

Advanced disciplinary:

• MINE8130 Technology Management (6 UOC)
• MINE8660 Geotechnical Engineering (6 UOC)
• MINE8680 Geotechnical Data Collection (6 UOC)
• MINE8690 Mining Geotechnical Project (6 UOC)
• MINE8710 Mine Slope Stability (6 UOC)
• MINE8720 Numerical in Mine Geomechanics (6 UOC)
• MINE8750 Adv Soil Mechs and Mine Fill (6 UOC)
• MINE8860 Drilling, Blasting and Machine (6 UOC)
• MINE8910 Mine Water & Waste Management (6 UOC)

Note: Written permission from the Program Authority is required prior to enrolment in

• MINE8660 Geotechnical Engineering (6 UOC)

Mine Management - MINEPS8335

Group A Core courses

Foundation disciplinary:

• GSOE9010 Eng PG Coursework Res Skills (6 UOC)

OR

• GSOE9011 Eng PGCW Research Skills (6 UOC)

PLUS

• MINE8101 Fundamentals of Mining Eng (6 UOC)

Additional disciplinary:

• MINE8115 Mine Processes, Syst and Anal (6 UOC)
• MINE8120 Hazard ID, Risk and Safety Mgt (6 UOC)
• MINE8440 Mining Industry Research Proj (6 UOC)

Group B: Elective courses

Advanced disciplinary:

• LAWS8045 Mining and Resources Law (6 UOC)
• MINE8130 Technology Management (6 UOC)
• MINE8210 Management Systems (6 UOC)
• MINE8445 Research Project ll (6 UOC)
• MINE8760 Mine Geol & Geophysics (6 UOC)
• MINE8780 Env Mgt for the Mining Ind (6 UOC)
• MINE8790 Advanced Mineral Economics (6 UOC)
• MINE8820 Mineral Processing (6 UOC)
• MINE8850 Mine Design and Feasibility (6 UOC)
• MINE8910 Mine Water & Waste Management (6 UOC)
• MINE8930 Uranium mining fundamentals (6 UOC)
• MINE9910 Mine Ventilation (6 UOC)

Please note: Written permission is required to do MINE8445.

Entry requires a 4 year (Honours) degree in Mining Engineering or a cognate discipline from a recognised institution, or satisfying the requirements of the UNSW Graduate Diploma in Mining Engineering (MINE5040FS and from 2015: MINE5335) with a minimum WAM of 65% and no course fails.

The UNSW School of Mining Engineering defines a cognate discipline as Engineering Geology, Civil Engineering or Geotechnical Engineering. Performance that is equivalent to Honours (I or II Division 1) is required over the final two (2) years of the degree. Professional experience in the mining industry will be highly regarded.

International students will be required to submit to the Program Authority, a proposed plan listing courses for each semester of their program. Signed approval by the Program Authority is required prior to commencement of the program. The approved plan is to list courses completed as block intensive mode or distance mode, and to ensure that the total number of distance mode courses is no more than 1 course per semester.

• IELTS Academic version only 6.5 overall (min. 6.0 in each subtest)
• TOEFL Internet-based Test (iBT) 90 overall (min.23 in writing, 22 in reading, listening and speaking)
• TOEFL Paper-based Test  (PBT) 577 overall (min. 5.0 in TWE)

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The University of New South Wales offers various financing options for students enrolled in the Mining Engineering program to support their academic pursuits. International students have the opportunity to apply for scholarships specifically tailored for engineering disciplines, which may include merit-based awards and need-based assistance. Domestic students can access government grants, such as HECS-HELP, which subsidize tuition fees and reduce the financial burden. The university also provides payment plans that allow students to spread out tuition fees across different semesters, making their financial management more flexible. Additionally, UNSW offers numerous faculty-specific scholarships for outstanding students entering the Mining Engineering program, which often require a demonstrated academic excellence or a commitment to the field. Students are encouraged to explore external funding options such as industry-sponsored scholarships, grants from mining companies, or government programs aimed at fostering careers in engineering and resource sectors in Australia. The university’s financial aid office provides comprehensive guidance and application assistance to help students access these funding sources. For international students, the university recommends early application for scholarships and financial assistance, as competition can be intense. Many students also seek part-time work opportunities available on or near campus, which can help offset costs while gaining relevant experience. Overall, the University of New South Wales is committed to making Mining Engineering education accessible through a combination of internal scholarships, government support, and external funding options, ensuring students can focus on their studies without undue financial stress.

Mining Engineering at the University of New South Wales offers a comprehensive undergraduate degree program designed to prepare students for careers in the extraction and processing of mineral resources. The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to develop safe, efficient, and sustainable mining operations. The curriculum covers a broad spectrum of subjects including geology, mineral exploration, mine design and planning, rock mechanics, mine safety, environmental management, and mineral processing. Students have the opportunity to engage with state-of-the-art technology and software used in industry, such as CAD, 3D modeling, and simulation tools, to gain hands-on experience.

The program is structured to enable students to understand the geological, environmental, and technological factors influencing the mining industry. It incorporates industry-based projects, laboratory work, and field trips to provide real-world exposure. The university maintains strong links with industry partners, offering students internships, industry placements, and networking opportunities to enhance employability upon graduation. Courses are taught by experienced academics and industry professionals, ensuring curriculum relevance and alignment with industry standards.

Graduate outcomes include roles in mine planning and operation, mineral exploration, environmental management, and consulting. The program also prepares students for postgraduate studies and research. UNSW’s commitment to sustainability and innovation is reflected in its approach to mining education, with a focus on promoting environmentally responsible mining practices and integrating new technologies such as automation and digitalization. The university’s facilities include specialized laboratories, mineral processing simulators, and access to remote sensing and GIS tools, all aimed at equipping students with cutting-edge skills.

Overall, the Mining Engineering program at UNSW seeks to develop highly skilled professionals capable of addressing the challenges faced by the mining sector globally while fostering ethical and sustainable practices.