Mining Engineering

What is taught in this field

The Mining Engineering program teaches students how to extract minerals from the earth safely and efficiently. Core subjects include the fundamentals of geology, rock properties, technologies for opening up and extracting deposits, mining machinery and equipment, mine ventilation, and occupational safety. Students build a strong foundation in mathematics, physics and technical drawing, and learn to use modern computer software for engineering design.

Laboratory work and industrial practice help students apply theory to real situations. This program is offered at the following seven universities: Geological Sciences University; Navoi State University of Mining and Technologies; Nukus State Technical University; Almalyk State Technical Institute; Karshi State Technical University; Termez State University of Engineering and Agrotechnologies; Tashkent State Technical University.

Who the graduate becomes

A graduate can work as a mining engineer. Typical positions include:

• mine engineer;
• section head or shift engineer;
• specialist in geotechnical monitoring;
• engineer planning quarry and open-pit operations;
• specialist in occupational health and safety.

With experience, graduates may advance to chief engineer or head of a production department.

Where you can work

In Uzbekistan, the development and processing of mineral deposits is an important sector. Graduates can find work in organizations such as:

• mining and metallurgical enterprises extracting metallic and non-metallic minerals;
• coal mines and construction materials quarries;
• geological exploration and geological research organizations;
• design and research institutes;
• state bodies that oversee the mining industry.

Who it suits

This program suits applicants with the following interests and abilities:

• those interested in nature, geology and the earth's subsurface;
• those who are good at mathematics and physics and think logically;
• those who enjoy working with machines and technology;
• those ready to work in a team, who are responsible and patient.

Working conditions in the mining sector can be demanding, so following safety rules and physical stamina are important.