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Undergraduate

The global green energy future demands a range of mineral and energy resources to power sustainable electricity production, technological advances, decarbonization, and economic development. Our graduates serve society by designing and operating sustainable, safe mines and finding innovative ways to capture and process mineral resources and fuels. 

Mining engineers use drone to inspect underground operation

Bachelor of Science

Our bachelor's degree program pepares students to work in a range of fields, including geological exploration, mineral processing, green engineering, mining design and operation, explosives engineering, technical consulting, management, business and finance, and sales and marketing. Through our Engineering Communications Program, they learn how to communicate their work through writing, speaking, and visual media. And, they gain an excellent background for post-graduate studies in science, engineering, business, and other fields.

Students are empowered to succeed through our Cooperative Education Program that alternates semesters of study with professional employment. Study abroad opportunities are also possible. And, eligible students may earn a university honors degree.

Our department provides robust academic advising services to help students thrive in the classroom, and our top-notch research faculty offers many hands-on opportunities to undergraduates. Scholarships, assistantships, and professional development and networking opportunities also are available.

Curriculum

Students typically enter the department after completing their first year of study in Virginia Tech's Engineering Education program. Students must complete a total of 129 credit hours to gain a Bachelor of Science degree.

In addition to foundational courses in mining and minerals engineering, students tailor their degree with electives and undergraduate research experiences. Students can focus on areas of study in aggregates, explosives engineering, mineral processing, mining health and safety, data analytics, robotics, and other areas of interest. Our students can also pursue various minors through the College of Engineering.

Our undergraduate curriculum includes our robust Engineering Communications Program, including writing, proposal preparation, reporting, research skills, critical and creative thinking, and other skills.

Scholarships

The College of Engineering offers a variety of scholarships to both first-year and transfer engineering students. The application process begins with filling out an online questionnaire. Our department offers nearly 100% of academically eligible (2.5+ GPA) students scholarships supported by corporate sponsors and alumni and agencies. More information is available from the academic advisor.

Undergraduate research

Each semester, our faculty provide opportunities for undergraduates to work on grant-funded research projects.

Internships and cooperative employment

Internships give students real-world experience, allowing them to apply the knowledge and theory they learn in the classroom and the lab. Students are encouraged to seek internship opportunities as early as possible. Details are available from the office of Career and Professional Development and the undergraduate advisor.

Our department strongly encourages cooperative education for all students. Co-ops help students build real-world skills, gain work experience, and network with future employers. All students are encouarged to work with the Cooperative Education and Internship Program. Participation in a co-op experience will extend the student's expected graduation date by at least one semester.

Student organizations

Virginia Tech has more than 800 student organizations on campus that offer social and professional development and rich experiences for everyone. Several engineering and mining-related organizations are active, including the Burkhart Mining Society, Bevlee Watford Society, International Society of Explosive Engineers, Bryan Smith Aggregates Society, American Rock Mechanics Association at Virginia TechNational Society of Black EngineersSociety of Women Engineers, and others. Two student competition teams - the Mine Rescue Team and the Mining Competition Team – offer comraderie and professional development.

Study Abroad

Students interested in study abroad opportunities can learn more from the Global Education Office and the undergraduate advisor.