The mining engineering program emphasizes engineering as it applies to the exploration and development of mineral resources and upon the economics of the business of mining. The program offers specialization in exploration, mining or mineral beneficiation.

Students are prepared for job opportunities with mining and construction companies, consulting and research firms, equipment manufacturers, investment and commodity firms in the private sector, as well as with state and federal agencies.

Mining engineers may aspire to, and achieve, the highest positions in the industry: operating or engineering management, government agency director or entrepreneur.