BUILD YOUR FUTURE TODAY
The Bachelor of Science in Geological Engineering program at Colorado School of Mines prepares graduates for careers that focus on the interaction between humans and earth. Undergraduate students learn a variety of vital topics and skills in our program, including how to:
- Evaluate and stabilize foundations for buildings, roads and other structures
- Locate, develop and protect water supplies
- Find and extract mineral and energy resources (such as oil, gas and coal) safely and with care for the environment
- Characterize contaminated sites and groundwater for cleanup
The geological engineering curriculum emphasizes laboratory and field experience, including six weeks of geologic mapping and direct observation in the mountains and canyons of southwestern Colorado and Utah.
Learn more about our exciting program here: Department of Geology and Geological Engineering website.
Experiential Major Menus
Uniquely tailored to your undergraduate major of choice, these menus offer a wide array of extra-curricular activities that complement and enrich the traditional classroom experience.
Explore the extra-curricular activities that complement your degree.
GEOLOGICAL ENGINEERING AT A GLANCE
| Hands-on research opportunities | Nationally ranked program |
| World-class laboratory facilities |
Professor Sonnenberg recognized with AAPG Lifetime Contribution Award |
The Geological Engineering curriculum provides a strong foundation in the basic sciences, mathematics, geological science and basic engineering along with specialized upper-level instruction in integrated applications to real problems. Engineering design is integrated throughout the four-year program, beginning in Design I (freshman year) and ending with the capstone design courses in the senior year.
Geological Engineering Curriculum
Areas of Special Interest
- Geological Engineering
Available Minor
- Geological Engineering
Career options for geological engineering majors:
- Groundwater engineer
- Petroleum exploration and development
- Mineral exploration and development
- Geological scientist
- Hydrologist
- Geological engineer
- Mineral engineer
- Seismic engineer
WHY STUDY GEOLOGICAL ENGINEERING AT MINES?
With a renowned faculty engaged in cutting-edge research, you’ll receive an outstanding education and truly understand how the study and practice of geological engineering serves society. At Mines, we believe in learning by doing, which is why we offer a variety of hands-on learning and research opportunities for our undergraduate students.
Why study geological engineering at Mines? Just take a look:
- World-class laboratory facilities
- Access to some of the best field sites in the world
- Faculty with diverse areas of interest and expertise
- Specialized capstone design courses
- Take part in a truly unique university environment with our traditions including the M Climb and Engineering Days
CAREER OUTCOMES
By studying geological engineering at Mines, you’ll be equipped with the skills, expertise and passion to take that next step—where it may take you. With an annual career fair featuring 400+ employers, it’s clear that Mines graduates are highly sought after and valued.
Many of our geological engineering major have gone on to work in a variety of related fields for top industry partners—both nationally and internationally. Some of the leading career options for our majors include:
- Groundwater engineer
- Petroleum exploration and development
- Mineral exploration and development
- Geological scientist
- Hydrologist
- Geological engineer
- Mineral engineer
- Seismic engineer
FACULTY SPOTLIGHT
DR. KEVIN CANNON
Dr. Kevin Cannon serves as an assistant professor in geology and geological engineering at Mines. With a PhD in Planetary Sciences from Brown University, Dr. Cannon brings a wealth of knowledge and teaching experience to our campus.
Dr. Cannon’s research interests include developing GIS for landing site characterization and surface operations, testing new hardware concepts for transforming and using planetary materials as resources and more. He teaches Advanced Planetary Geology.
Making Mines
More Affordable.
Mines’ financial assistance program awards more than $60 million per year, and over 82 percent of the student body receives some form of financial aid.
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Mines by the Numbers
$91,160
median pay for geologists, 2019, Bureau of Labor Statistics
No. 2
Public College with Highest Return on Investment, Money Magazine, 2018
A Student Experience Like no Other
At Mines, we inspire students who are driven to be innovators and advance the knowledge of those who want to address today’s greatest challenges.