The Mining Engineering program celebrated 150 years in 2021. We look forward to educating future generations of Mining Engineers through our work-integrated-learning (Co-op education) program.Ìý
Labour market forecasts show that Mining Engineers are highly desirable in the workforce in Canada and around the world for a variety of career options such as field work, management and academia. This is especially true since many Mining Engineers will retire in the next decade, increasing demand for new graduates.
If you are a prospective student and you have questions on what is Mining Engineering, the admissions process, and what kind of co-op work terms and careers are available following graduation, we hope you will find this website helpful.
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What is Mining Engineering?
Mining Engineering is a complex and interdisciplinary field involving elements of geological, civil, mechanical and materials engineering.
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Why Mining Engineering at McGill?
Studying mining engineering at Ï㽶ÊÓƵ offers a unique opportunity to join one of the top five mining programs in the world, known for its high success rates and exceptional co-op program. With small class sizes of 25-35 students, you'll receive personalized attention and a close-knit learning environment, fostering strong connections with faculty and peers. You also have the opportunity to study pat of your studies in of our sister universities around the world .
The shift to clean energy technologies is driving a significant increase in demand for critical minerals, especially in the Canadian mining industry. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA) Special Report on the World Energy Outlook 2021, the demand for minerals used in wind turbines, electric vehicle (EV) motors, and electronic technologies is expected to quadruple by 2040 to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement. As existing mines deplete, new deposits are found at greater depths with lower metal content, making extraction and processing more complex and less economically viable.
Additionally, there's increasing societal pressure for the mining industry to enhance its environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards. To meet these demands, innovative technologies are essential. These technologies can transform mining operations by increasing resource utilization, improving productivity, reducing carbon footprints and environmental impacts, and providing greater benefits to communities and society.
There is a considerable demand for our mining engineers worldwide, who enjoy substantial salaries. Multinational mining companies are the main employers of our students, offering the opportunity to work around the world. By studying mining engineering at McGill, you'll be at the forefront of these advancements, preparing for a future where your skills are crucial for sustainable and efficient mining practices.
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What do Mining Engineers Do?
A Professional Mining Engineer can plan, design, organize and supervise the development of mines, mine facilities, systems and equipment. Moreover, Mining Engineers can also prepare and supervise the extraction of metallic or non-metallic minerals and ore from underground or surface mines.
Graduates of the McGill Mining Engineering Co-op program often get employed by a wide spectrum of careers – worldwide:
-Ìýmining, oil/gas or energy companies
- environmental reclamation
- automation of mining systems
- service/suppliers, e.g. consulting engineering firms or banks
- government
- graduate studies
Experiential Learning
The McGill Mining Engineering Co-op Program (accredited by the CEAB, Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board) will give you 12-16 months’ worth of paid and relevant job experience integrated with your studies. The McGill Engineering Career Centre and the Co-op Liaison Officer assists students Ìýto find co-op work terms. There are several career workshops and On-Campus Recruitment activities throughout the academic term.
Exchanges
The Faculty of Engineering offers information sessions to inform students of study exchange opportunities. McGill Mining Engineering students usually go to Australia or Chile or select universities in Canada, including École Polytechnique here in Montreal.
Visit the Outgoing Exchange Students webpage for details on how to apply. U2 students in the Mining Engineering program must attend the information session (Fall) thenÌýstart the application processÌýto go on exchange in U3.
A small, diverse community
Students in this program particularly appreciate the small program size. Close bonds are formed and relationships develop through the 4-year program. Friendly faculty and staff know the students by name, and assist in co-curricular activities throughout the year.
McGill Mining Engineering students are well known through their active involvement within the community. Many competitions take place throughout the year and students of various years have the chance to get active, get involved. For details of what's happening now, visit the Current Student Life pages. See yourself in our small, diverse community.
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