Mining Technology: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Prepared for a dynamic and critical sector of the global economy, this program equips students with the technical expertise and applied knowledge needed to support mining operations and mineral processing infrastructure. By blending foundational engineering principles with hands-on industry practices, graduates are positioned to contribute effectively in roles that ensure operational efficiency, environmental compliance, and workplace safety within mining environments.
- Principles of mineral extraction and geology: Explores the scientific and geological foundations of locating, accessing, and extracting valuable minerals from the earth, emphasizing the relationship between rock formations and mineral deposits.
- Mineral field mapping and site analysis: Teaches techniques for interpreting geological data and creating detailed maps to identify prospective mining zones and assess site suitability.
- Testing and sampling methods: Focuses on standardized procedures for collecting, handling, and analyzing rock and ore samples to determine composition and economic viability.
- Instrument calibration and equipment maintenance: Provides training in verifying and adjusting measurement tools and machinery to ensure precision, reliability, and regulatory compliance in field and lab settings.
- Assay analysis: Covers laboratory techniques used to determine the concentration of valuable minerals in ore samples, essential for evaluating extraction potential and economic feasibility.
- Mine environment and safety monitoring: Emphasizes protocols for tracking air quality, structural stability, and hazardous conditions to maintain a safe and sustainable working environment.
- Mine inspection procedures: Trains students in systematic evaluation of mining operations to ensure adherence to safety regulations, environmental standards, and operational best practices.
- Technical report preparation: Develops skills in compiling clear, accurate, and actionable documentation for management, regulatory bodies, and engineering teams based on field and lab findings.
Mining Technology Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Mining Technology Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Mining Technology degrees, including Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other, Service Unit Operators, Oil and Gas and Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 118,240 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other 17-3029 | $77,390 | $47,010 - $114,630 | 64,410 | $37.21 |
| Service Unit Operators, Oil and Gas 47-5013 | $57,980 | $40,010 - $93,820 | 44,120 | $27.88 |
| Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians 19-4043 | $48,390 | $32,830 - $92,210 | 9,710 | $23.27 |
Mining Technology Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $51,290 in Kansas to $109,120 in District of Columbia—a 113% difference. The highest-paying states include District of Columbia, Maryland, and Maine. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 118,240 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Mining Technology by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 3 institutions offering Mining Technology programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Mining Technology is found at Olney Central College (OCC) (19 graduates), University of Alaska (UAF), Fairbanks (5 graduates), and Mountain Empire Community College (MECC) (5 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 29 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
| College Name | Award Levels | Graduates | Location | Control | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Olney Central College (OCC) |
Residency
|
19 | Olney, Illinois | Public | iecc.edu |
| University of Alaska (UAF) |
Other Award
|
5 | Fairbanks, Alaska | Public | uaf.edu |
| Mountain Empire Community College (MECC) |
Other Award
|
5 | Big Stone Gap, Virginia | Public | mecc.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Mining Technology programs
How much can I earn with a Mining Technology degree?
Salaries for Mining Technology graduates vary by role and location. Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other earn a median of $77,390 annually, while Service Unit Operators, Oil and Gas earn around $57,980. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in District of Columbia average $109,120 compared to $51,290 in Kansas. Approximately 118,240 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Mining Technology programs?
Currently 3 accredited institutions offer Mining Technology degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Olney Central College (OCC) (19 graduates), University of Alaska (UAF), Fairbanks (5 graduates), and Mountain Empire Community College (MECC) (5 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
Is enrollment in Mining Technology growing or declining?
Graduate numbers have decreased over the past decade, rising from 192 in 2010 to 29 in 2023-24. This represents a 85% decrease overall from 2010.
The field remains specialized with consistent demand, though opportunities are most concentrated in major metropolitan areas with active arts scenes like New York, California, and Illinois.
Graduate enrollment data from IPEDS, 2010-2024 academic years. Trends reflect reported completions at participating institutions.
What career paths are available with a Mining Technology degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other, Service Unit Operators, Oil and Gas, and Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians. Related occupations employ approximately 118,240 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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