The MEng Mining Engineering at the University of Exeter prepares students to become skilled engineers who can address the challenges of responsible resource extraction, sustainability, and the future of the global mining industry. The programme combines engineering, geology, mine design, digital technologies, and resource management, making it an excellent choice for students interested in creating innovative solutions for the responsible use of natural resources.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1
The first year builds a strong foundation in engineering principles, mathematics, scientific computing, and practical problem-solving. Students study modules such as Engineering Mathematics and Scientific Computing, Multi-Disciplinary Group Challenge Project, Fundamentals of Mechanics, Fundamentals of Materials, and Fundamentals of Engineering, developing essential technical knowledge while gaining experience in collaborative engineering projects.
Year 2
In the second year, students begin developing specialist mining engineering knowledge and explore how natural resources are discovered, developed, and extracted. Modules including Geotechnics, Resource Cycle and Value Chain, Resource Extraction Methods, Resource Development, and the Discipline Group Challenge Project help students understand mining processes, engineering design, project management, and sustainable resource development.
Year 3
The third year focuses on advanced mining engineering topics and prepares students to solve complex industry challenges. Through modules such as Surface Excavation Design, Tunnelling and Excavation Design, Politics, Mining and Sustainable Development, Resource Infrastructure and Mine Services, and Mineral Processing, Recycling and Resource Recovery, students develop expertise in mine operations, sustainability, safety, and resource management.
Final Year
The final year allows students to develop advanced technical expertise and complete an MEng Individual Project, where they investigate a specialist engineering topic with guidance from academic experts. Students strengthen their research, project management, innovation, and technical analysis skills, preparing them for professional engineering careers.
Focus Areas
Mining Engineering, Sustainable Resource Extraction, Mine Design, Mineral Processing, Resource Management, Geotechnical Engineering, Mining Operations, Digital Technologies in Mining, Environmental Sustainability, Mine Safety, Engineering Project Management, Social and Environmental Responsibility
Learning Outcomes
Understand the complete mining lifecycle, apply engineering principles to resource extraction, design and evaluate mining operations, analyse geological and engineering data, develop sustainable mining solutions, understand mineral processing and resource recovery, manage engineering projects, use digital and technical tools, assess environmental and social impacts of mining, conduct independent engineering research, develop problem-solving and leadership skills
Professional Alignment (Accreditation)
The MEng Mining Engineering provides students with the technical knowledge and professional skills required for careers in the mining and resources industries. The programme develops expertise in areas such as mine design, resource management, sustainability, safety, and responsible engineering practices, supporting students as they progress towards professional engineering careers.
Reputation (Employability Rankings)
The University of Exeter’s Camborne School of Mines has a long history of excellence in education and research related to mining, minerals, and earth resources.
Students benefit from industry-focused teaching, practical fieldwork opportunities, and the chance to gain professional experience through industry placements.
The programme prepares graduates for the increasing global demand for mining engineers who can support sustainable resource development and the transition towards a low-carbon future.
The MEng Mining Engineering at the University of Exeter provides students with a strong practical learning experience by combining engineering knowledge with fieldwork, industry projects, laboratory activities, and research-based learning. Through the renowned Camborne School of Mines, students gain hands-on experience in areas such as mining operations, geological investigations, mineral processing, resource management, and sustainable extraction methods. The programme allows students to apply classroom knowledge to real engineering challenges through industry engagement, practical training, and specialist facilities.
Students develop practical skills through a combination of specialist facilities, industry experience, and applied learning opportunities:
Gain professional experience through an industry work placement between Years 2 and 3, where students can work with mining companies or organisations involved in mining operations and resource management.
Participate in fieldwork and mine site visits to explore real mining environments, including surface and underground operations, while developing skills in surveying, geological mapping, geotechnical assessment, and mine ventilation.
Access specialist facilities through the Camborne School of Mines, including geochemical and mineralogical laboratories, mineral processing facilities, surveying equipment, GIS resources, and engineering research spaces.
Use professional surveying equipment such as Leica GPS1200 and Trimble R10 Smart Rover to develop practical skills in mine surveying and geological data collection.
Work with specialist minerals engineering laboratories that support teaching, research, and practical investigations into mineral processing, recycling, and resource recovery.
Develop technical and digital skills using tools such as GIS software, scientific computing applications, and engineering analysis tools relevant to mine design, resource evaluation, and environmental assessment.
Take part in group projects and multidisciplinary engineering challenges that strengthen teamwork, communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities.
Complete an MEng Individual Project, allowing students to undertake independent research, investigate engineering problems, and work closely with academic experts on specialist topics.
Engage with industry-related projects and professional networks connected to the mining and resources sector, gaining insight into current engineering challenges and industry practices.
Benefit from access to specialist teaching and research environments at the Camborne School of Mines, supporting learning in mining, minerals, and geoscience disciplines.
The MEng Mining Engineering at the University of Exeter prepares graduates for careers in the global mining and resources sector by developing strong technical knowledge, problem-solving abilities, project management skills, and leadership qualities. The programme opens opportunities in roles such as Mining Engineer, Geotechnical Engineer, Resource Engineer, Mine Design Engineer, and Environmental Consultant, with graduates able to work across mining companies, engineering consultancies, energy industries, and environmental organisations.
The programme supports students’ career development through industry experience, professional networks, and employability support:
The University of Exeter Careers Service provides career guidance, employability workshops, skills development sessions, employer events, and resources to help students prepare for graduate employment. Students also benefit from the global alumni network and industry connections associated with the Camborne School of Mines.
Students gain valuable industry exposure through an industry work placement between Years 2 and 3, where they can work in a mining environment, such as a mine site or mining company operations division, gaining practical experience before graduation.
The programme maintains strong links with the mining and resources sector through industry-focused teaching, collaborative research, and projects connected to real engineering challenges.
Students develop highly valued professional skills including technical problem-solving, teamwork, communication, project management, decision-making, planning, organisation, and leadership, preparing them for a wide range of engineering careers.
The University of Exeter’s Camborne School of Mines has an internationally recognised reputation for mining, minerals, and earth resources education, with strong connections to industry and a worldwide alumni community.
The programme’s focus on sustainable mining, responsible resource management, mine design, geotechnical engineering, and environmental considerations provides graduates with knowledge relevant to the future needs of the global resources sector.
Graduates are prepared for careers across sectors including mining, engineering, manufacturing, energy, environmental consultancy, construction, and resource management.
The MEng qualification provides a strong academic foundation for progressing towards professional engineering recognition and future leadership roles within the engineering industry.
Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MEng Mining Engineering, students can continue their studies through postgraduate programmes in areas such as Mining Engineering, Mineral Processing, Geotechnical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Sustainable Resource Management, or related research fields. Further study allows graduates to specialise in advanced technical areas, develop expertise for research and innovation, or progress towards senior engineering and management positions within the global mining and resources industry.



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