Pursuing a career in mining engineering can be very lucrative and give you access to various opportunities. This field of engineering involves professionals who play an integral role in collecting natural resources such as metals, coal and stone for use in manufacturing and construction. However, a mining engineer is responsible for the extraction, processing and transportation of minerals.

Mining engineering studies the extraction of minerals from the surface of the earth and their transformation into usable forms. It also describes the occurrence of creating and designing mining tools, pieces of machinery and engines. Therefore, engineers in this field create structures to locate, extract and transport natural resources from the earth’s surface. Pursuing a career in mining engineering requires that you acquire technical knowledge, education and work experience that will be needed to thrive in this career path.

In this piece, I will discuss the steps and processes required to take when pursuing a career in mining engineering.

Steps to Pursue a Career in Mining Engineering

1. Obtain an O’level Certificate

   You need to have a strong foundation in science before you can pursue a career in mining engineering. Additionally, you should have a minimum of five credits in subjects such as Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics and other science subjects.

2. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

   The first step is to obtain a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. You can apply to a university to learn the foundational knowledge of mining and mineral extraction. After fulfilling the requirements, you earn a bachelor’s degree in Mining Engineering. Additionally, you can learn about mineral deposit and processing, mine power and mine safety.

3. Gain Field Experience

   You must gain practical experience in this field. You can do this through internships, and volunteering in a mining engineering company. This experience can allow you to apply your skills to real-world projects with industry experts. Additionally, you can have the opportunity to create a professional network and make vital connections in the mining industry.

4. Choose an Area of Specialisation

   Selecting an area of specialisation as you gain experience is a great idea. You can work in a variety of settings such as including open-pit and underground mines to choose an area of specialisation.

5. Pursue a Master’s Degree

   You can consider pursuing a master’s degree after obtaining your bachelor’s degree. A master’s degree will enable you to advance in your career and professional development. Additionally, a master’s degree can give you the chance to specialise in a particular area within mining engineering. A master’s degree will advance your knowledge and help you acquire knowledge on your area of specialisation.

6. Join a Professional Association

   You can join a professional association whether you are a student or a graduate. A professional association can help you gain access to growth opportunities and updates in the industry. Furthermore, you can have the opportunity to network and collaborate with experts and colleagues which can add to your growth.

Areas of Specialisation in Mining Engineering

1. Geotechnical Engineering: Geotechnical engineers conduct investigations, and design and maintain mining excavations. Additionally, they are involved in the building of landfills and rubbish sites as well as the installation of backfill.
2. Mineral Economics: This area of specialisation involves analysing the monetary elements of mining ventures. Engineers working in this area determine if mining activities are feasible, calculate expenses as well and analyse capital possibilities.
3. Mineral Processing: Engineers who specialise in this area create techniques and equipment for separating and recovering precious minerals. Furthermore, they streamline processes to maximise the utilisation of resources and minimise trash.
4. Mine Surveyor: This role is responsible for surveying the passageway of an underground mine. They assess surface mines to estimate the entire quantity of material mined.
5. Geological Engineer: Geological engineers construct mines to allow for the effective and safe extraction of minerals. They examine possible mining locations to find mineral reserves. Furthermore, they develop strategies for mining minerals and metals in an environmentally friendly manner.

Universities in Africa that Offer Mining Engineering

1. University of Witwatersrand, South Africa
2. Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria
3. University of Pretoria, South Africa
4. North-West University, South Africa
5. University of Nigeria, Nigeria
6. Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria
7. University of Jos, Nigeria
8. Assiut University, Egypt
9. University of Ghana, Ghana
10. Cairo University, Egypt
11. University of Stellenbosch, South Africa
12. Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria
13. University of Calabar, Nigeria
14. Cadi Ayyad University, Morocco
15. University of Zambia, Zambia
16. Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana
17. University of Mines and Technology, Ghana
18. Sohag University, Egypt
19. University of Annaba, Algeria
20. Ain Shams University, Egypt

Pursuing a career in mining engineering can allow you to work on intriguing initiatives that have an impact on the world’s economy and production. A career in mining engineering is essential because of the importance of minerals in the world and their global impact on the global economy. However, this career path requires that you acquire the relevant skills and knowledge needed in the industry. You need to commit yourself to continuous learning to keep up with novel knowledge.

Good luck!

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