Undergraduate

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. Eligible students may also 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.

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.

Study Abroad

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

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 Tech, National Society of Black Engineers, Society of Women Engineers, and others. Two student competition teams - the Mine Rescue Team and the Mining Competition Team – offer comraderie and professional development.