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undergraduate

Mining and petroleum engineering


What is a mining and petroleum engineering major?

Mineral and petroleum engineering students are trained to apply mathematical and metallurgical principles to the design, development, and operational evaluation of metal components of structural, load-bearing, power, transmission, and moving systems. They also analyze engineering problems such as stress, creep, failure, alloy behavior, environmental fluctuations, stability, electromagnetic and thermodynamic characteristics, optimal manufacturing processes, and related design considerations. Subtopics include mining technician, mining engineering, as well as petroleum technology and/or technician.

23%

of students said they were motivated to select this major because it's financially rewarding.

29%

of students said complex concepts were a challenging aspect of the major.

How much do mining and petroleum engineering majors make?

median average salary

$100,000/yr

The national average salary for mining and petroleum engineering graduates in the United States is $100,000 per year. Those in the top 10 percent make over $329,000 a year, while the bottom 10 percent make under $31,300 a year. While salary ranges can vary by role, industry, and location, mining and petroleum engineering graduates typically make between $65,000 and $180,000 per year.

How popular is mining and petroleum engineering as a major?

Each year, around 1,820 students obtain a bachelor’s degree in mining and petroleum engineering. In 2021, 1,024 students received a bachelor's degree. This is 21% fewer mining and petroleum engineering majors than there were in 2020. Mining and petroleum engineering is a relatively popular major compared to other engineering majors.

Advice from mining and petroleum engineering majors

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