Mining and Petroleum Technologies: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Designed for students seeking advanced technical expertise in extractive industries, this program prepares learners for dynamic careers in mining and petroleum operations through applied science, engineering principles, and modern technological integration. It emphasizes the practical application of knowledge in resource extraction, safety protocols, environmental stewardship, and operational efficiency across both surface and subsurface environments.
- Mineral Resource Assessment: Techniques for identifying, evaluating, and quantifying mineral deposits using geological surveys, geophysical methods, and data analysis to support sustainable extraction planning.
- Drilling and Wellbore Engineering: Core principles of directional drilling, casing design, and well integrity management essential for safe and efficient hydrocarbon recovery.
- Surface and Underground Mining Systems: Study of equipment operation, mine layout, ventilation, ground control, and extraction methods tailored to different geological conditions and resource types.
- Hydrocarbon Production Technologies: Hands-on training in reservoir simulation, production optimization, and the use of advanced monitoring systems to enhance recovery rates and system reliability.
- Environmental and Regulatory Compliance: Focus on minimizing ecological impact through waste management, emissions control, reclamation strategies, and adherence to national and international industry standards.
- Automation and Data Analytics in Extraction: Application of real-time data systems, remote sensing, and digital modeling to improve decision-making, reduce operational risks, and increase productivity.
Mining and Petroleum Technologies Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Mining and Petroleum Technologies Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Mining and Petroleum Technologies degrees, including 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 9,710 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians 19-4043 | $48,390 | $32,830 - $92,210 | 9,710 | $23.27 |
Mining and Petroleum Technologies Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $37,620 in Michigan to $72,440 in Nevada—a 93% difference. The highest-paying states include Nevada, New Jersey, and Alaska. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 9,710 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 and Petroleum Technologies by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 1 institutions offering Mining and Petroleum Technologies 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 and Petroleum Technologies is found at University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) (5 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 5 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) |
Associate's
|
5 | Charlotte Amalie, U.S. Virgin Islands | Public | uvi.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Mining and Petroleum Technologies programs
How much can I earn with a Mining and Petroleum Technologies degree?
Salaries for Mining and Petroleum Technologies graduates vary by role and location. Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians earn a median of $48,390 annually. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in Nevada average $72,440 compared to $37,620 in Michigan. Approximately 9,710 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 and Petroleum Technologies programs?
Currently 1 accredited institutions offer Mining and Petroleum Technologies degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) (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 and Petroleum Technologies growing or declining?
Graduate numbers have decreased over the past decade, rising from 15 in 2010 to a peak of 10 in 2020, before declining slightly to 5 in 2023-24. This represents a 67% 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 and Petroleum Technologies degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians. Related occupations employ approximately 9,710 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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