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Mining Engineering Technology


Location(s):  Saskatoon   

Mining is a dynamic industry, one that calls for people with a knack for problem-solving, an interest in learning how things work and the ability to adapt to technological innovation. To succeed in the field you need good analytical skills, an organized mind and an eye for detail. Even more important, you need to be self-motivated, dependable and committed to teamwork and safety.

Mining Engineering Technology is a diploma program that focuses on the application of scientific principles to basic mining engineering problems in both hard and soft rock mining environments. Your studies will focus on surface and underground surveying, mine ventilation, ground control and mine planning and design.

You will receive training in:
  • surveying

  • drafting

  • computer applications in mining

  • mine safety

  • basic geology

  • mine ventilation

  • ground control

  • mine hydrology and environmental concerns

  • ore processing and transportation

  • soil, concrete and shotcrete testing

  • project management

  • fluid mechanics

  • basic geophysics, electricity and instrumentation

Length: 72 weeks

Year 1 - 36 weeks; Year 2 - 36 weeks


Career Opportunities

As a mining engineering technologist, you will be part of a team dedicated to ensuring smooth, efficient mine operation. Graduates are prepared to work as technologists in mine operations both surface and underground. You will be able to work in fields such as surveying, ventilation, ground control, mine planning and supervision. You may find employment at a mine site or testing laboratory or with a consulting firm. As you advance in experience and skills, you could move on to work in design, supervision and project management. It's a career path that offers good pay, opportunities for advancement and great mobility.

For more information about career opportunities related to this program, contact Student Employment Services at the SIAST campus nearest you.

Program Details

Start Date(s): August

Apply Now

Admission Requirements

  • Grade 12 with a combined average of 60% in Math A30, Math B30 and Math C30*

  • Physics 30 is recommended but not required

  • English Language Requirement


*Revised Mathematics Curriculum Requirement
(Effective July 1, 2013)

  • Minimum of 60% in Pre-Calculus 30
    (replacing Math A30, B30 and C30 above)

  • All other admission requirements remain unchanged


Applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications for a program may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through a special admission assessment. Interested individuals should still apply. Applicants are automatically considered for special admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met. Refer to the ACCUPLACER© cut scores and Post Secondary Success Requirements for this program below, and review additional details concerning Special Admission.



ACCUPLACER ©     

ACCUPLACER© Cut Scores
for this program

85Arithmetic
40College Level Math
80Elementary Algebra
75Reading
75Sentence
Post-Secondary Success

Post-Secondary Success Requirements
for this program

Not applicable at this time


Admission Method

First Qualified/First Admitted

The First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA) process is used for the majority of SIAST programs. When we determine that you meet the program's admission requirements, you will be offered admission based on the date you fully qualify for the program. The earlier you provide the appropriate documents and information that qualify you for admission to the next intake, the earlier you might begin your studies. Your application, once qualified, is always considered for the next intake.

Applicants to programs with multiple intakes in an academic year remain in the application pool until the last intake for that academic year has begun. Programs using the FQFA process receive applications year round and maintain an application pool for each academic year. Qualified applicants who are not offered a seat must reapply for the next academic year.

Sponsored programs or programs targeted to specific groups do not accept applications year round or maintain an application pool.

Learning Method(s)

SIAST offers a variety of learning methods for course delivery. The following learning methods are available for some of the courses in this program.
      Classroom
      Home Study
      Online

Please refer to the course descriptions for course specific learning methods.


Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) Availability

SIAST recognizes that adults learn in many different ways and through many different means. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training.





Transfer Credit

Many SIAST students benefit from transferring credit. You may be eligible to transfer credit from or to another college or university. To learn more, visit our transfer credit web page.



  • DRFT 104  Sketching
  • You will receive an introduction to the techniques and standards required to communicate graphically. The course content includes sketching of orthographic and isometric views, geometric constructions, sectional views, lettering, dimensioning and scaling as part of the drafting component.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Equivalent Course(s):   DRFT 124   


  • DRFT 105  Drafting AutoCAD
  • You will receive an introduction to the techniques and standards required to communicate graphically. The course content includes the AutoCAD user interface, view control, 2D geometric construction and drawing aids, layers, blocks, text, paper space, model space and plotting.

    4.0 Credit Units
    66.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab


  • GIS_ 101  Geographic Information Systems for Resource Managers 1
  • You will achieve a basic understanding of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) concepts and principles. You will learn how to display spatial data, work with tables and create a map layout using ArcGIS for desktop.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online/Blackboard

    Equivalent Course(s):   GIS 350    GIS 440   


  • MATH 182  Technical Mathematics and Differential Calculus
  • You will review trigonometry, algebraic, logarithmic, exponential and trigonometric functions and their graphs, and trigonometric identities. You will also receive an introduction to differential calculus involving algebraic functions.

    6.0 Credit Units
    85.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

    Equivalent Course(s):   MAT 122    MAT 226   


  • MINE 106  Mine Safety
  • You will develop an understanding of common safety systems as well as emergency procedures. Based on Saskatchewan Mine Regulations, your studies will focus on mine safety topics including personal protective equipment and mine safety cultures.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab


  • SEM_ 101  Technology Seminars
  • You will receive an orientation to your program and learn where and how the technician/technologist fits into the workplace and society. You will become familiar with the role of technicians/technologists in society, study and time management skills, increasing diversity in the workplace, principles of sustainability, the impact of technology on society and workplace safety requirements.

    1.0 Credit Units
    16.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Prior Learning

    Equivalent Course(s):   ENGM 181    ETHC 183    ORTN 120   


  • SRVY 120  Surveying 1
  • You will receive an introduction to the basics of surveying. The course content includes horizontal measurements, levelling, angle and direction measurement, computations, traverses and drafting plans.

    5.0 Credit Units
    80.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Independent Study, Prior Learning


  • TCOM 102  Communication in Technology
  • Your studies will focus on the basic skills required of the technologist in the workplace. You will examine the communication process and interpersonal and workplace communication techniques. The course content includes technical writing and job search skills.

    3.0 Credit Units
    48.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Learn Linc, Prior Learning, Online/Blackboard

    Equivalent Course(s):   JOBS 190    JOBS 288    JOBS 290    TCOM 120    TMGT 180   


  • TERR 121  Terrain Evaluation
  • The course provides an introduction to physical geology beginning with the study of the origin, composition and characteristics of the major minerals and rock classifications. You will also study geologic processes and the landforms and geologic structures created by these processes. Labs will provide you opportunities to focus on map reading and interpreting air photos. Saskatchewan's glaciated terrain will be emphasized.

    5.0 Credit Units
    80.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab


    Semester 2

  • CALC 100  Integral Calculus
  • Building on the knowledge you acquired in MATH 182 (Technical Mathematics and Differential Calculus), you will study the differentiation and integration of algebraic and transcendental functions, and applications of these concepts to max/min problems, related rates, root solutions, areas, centroids and moments of inertia.

    5.0 Credit Units
    72.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

    Prerequisites:
    MATH 182 Minimum Grade of 60


  • CAMP 100  Survey Camp
  • Using the knowledge gained in previous surveying and AutoCAD courses, you will participate in surveying exercises and perform two projects in the field. In the first project, you will use the data collected in the field to produce a topographic map of one area. In the second project, you will document, design and lay out a section of roadway including a horizontal curve. You will be introduced to the application of Global Positioning System (GPS) survey equipment.

    6.0 Credit Units
    90.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Corequisites:   SRVY 123   


  • ENGM 100  Applied Mechanics
  • You will learn the basic principles of statics. You will apply statics principles to solve various scenarios.




    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Prerequisites:
    MATH 182 Minimum Grade of 60


  • GEOL 100  Ore Deposits
  • You will study mineral and rock types. Your studies will include describing types of ore bodies as well as how they are formed and deposited. You will develop a basic understanding of core logging.

    5.0 Credit Units
    75.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Prerequisites:
    TERR 121 Minimum Grade of 60


  • MINE 107  Mining Concepts
  • You will become familiar with mining terminology, the mining cycle and mining history. When you complete the course, you will be able to describe different types of underground and surface mining techniques as well as basic mining equipment.

    5.0 Credit Units
    70.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Prerequisites:
    MINE 106 Minimum Grade of 60


  • MINE 108  Ore Transportation and Processing
  • You will study methods of material handling and transportation including trucking, conveyors, hydraulic methods and hoisting. Your studies will include basic mineral processing concepts.

    5.0 Credit Units
    75.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab


  • MINE 109  Soils and Concrete
  • You will evaluate soil properties and discuss methods of ground improvement. You will discuss and practice methods of quality control in aggregate, concrete, grout and shotcrete.

    4.0 Credit Units
    60.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Prerequisites:
    TERR 121 Minimum Grade of 60


  • SRVY 123  Surveying 2
  • Building on the skills developed in SRVY 120 (Surveying 1), you will focus on topographic surveys using Total Stations with data collection. You will be introduced to survey drawings and maps, contours, profiles and cross sections. You will complete calculations for construction surveys. You will be introduced to survey control using local grids, Universal Transverse Mercater (UTM) coordinate system and the Dominion Land Survey System.

    4.0 Credit Units
    65.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Prerequisites:
    MATH 182 Minimum Grade of 60 and SRVY 120 Minimum Grade of 60


  • TCOM 103  Workplace Communication
  • Building on the skills you developed in TCOM 102 (Communication in Technology), you will apply basic research skills to create workplace documents. Your studies will focus on the workplace skills of creating effective client relations, conducting meetings and giving presentations.

    3.0 Credit Units
    48.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online/Blackboard

    Equivalent Course(s):   COMM 181    COMM 190    TCOM 123    TCOM 190   

    Prerequisites:
    TCOM 102 Minimum Grade of 60


    Semester 3

  • ELEC 216  Basic Electricity
  • You will be introduced to basic DC and AC circuit concepts. You will use electrical metering devices; perform electrical calculations and describe an electrical distribution system.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab


  • FMEC 200  Fluid Mechanics
  • You will gain expertise in assessing and utilizing fluid properties such as temperature, pressure, density and viscosity in evaluating the behaviour of flowing and non-flowing fluids. The forces exerted on bodies and surfaces due to non-flowing fluids (fluid statics) and the characteristics of fluids in motion along with any resulting energy changes (fluid dynamics) will be examined. You will develop competency in analyzing simple pipe networks, classification and selection of associated mechanical equipment (pumps, blowers, etc.), and the principles of fluid flow measurement.

    5.0 Credit Units
    77.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Prerequisites:
    ENGM 100 Minimum Grade of 60


  • GRND 200  Introduction to Rock Mechanics and Ground Control
  • You will collect geotechnical data for rock mass and classification systems. You will study methods of ground control and support. Using computer software, you will analyze stability concerns and joint set data.

    5.0 Credit Units
    80.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Prerequisites:
    ENGM 100 Minimum Grade of 60


  • MINE 200  Computer Applications in Mining
  • You will build on your computer skills by operating standard software used in the mining industry. You will apply spreadsheet functions and use 3D drafting software.




    3.0 Credit Units
    40.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Prerequisites:
    DRFT 105 Minimum Grade of 60 and SRVY 123 Minimum Grade of 60


  • MINE 201  Mining Methods
  • You will compare various surface and underground mining methods. Your studies will include explaining equipment used in different operations and you will consider economic factors for various mining methods.

    5.0 Credit Units
    70.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Prerequisites:
    MINE 107 Minimum Grade of 60


  • MINE 202  Mining Hydrology and Environmental Management
  • You will be introduced to how water impacts mining operations; specifically, water treatment and water management. Your studies will include environmental issues pertaining to waste and tailings management as well as reclamation processes.

    5.0 Credit Units
    68.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Corequisites:   FMEC 200   


  • MVNT 200  Mine Ventilation
  • You will learn the basic theory and concepts of mine ventilation, mine environment and ventilation controls. You will apply ventilation formulas given specific factors. Your studies will include how to deal with confined space safety considerations.

    5.0 Credit Units
    70.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Corequisites:   FMEC 200   

    Prerequisites:
    MINE 107 Minimum Grade of 60


  • PROJ 287  Project Management
  • You will be introduced to project management. You will examine the basic theory of project planning and control, from project initiation to project close out. You will apply research techniques and various tools to practice project management theory in a variety of projects. You will practice skills using project management software.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning, Online/Blackboard


    Semester 4

  • GEOL 200  Geophysical Data Collection and Analysis
  • You will be introduced to basic geophysics theory, data collections and basic data analysis. Your studies will include comparing various geophysical techniques.

    4.0 Credit Units
    60.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Prerequisites:
    ENGM 100 Minimum Grade of 60 and GEOL 100 Minimum Grade of 60


  • GRND 201  Ground Control Design
  • You will apply skills and knowledge developed in GRND 200 to mine design, using factor of safety, stability charts and other methods. You will examine mine operations and ground support systems.

    4.0 Credit Units
    65.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Prerequisites:
    GRND 200 Minimum Grade of 60


  • INST 200  Instrumentation and Control
  • You will be introduced to the operation and application of control loops, control signals, actuators and control valves. You will study programmable logic control and the operation of equipment controls.




    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Prerequisites:
    ELEC 216 Minimum Grade of 60


  • MINE 203  Blasting
  • You will study blasting safety, techniques and materials. You will design blasting layouts for various mine models.

    4.0 Credit Units
    58.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Corequisites:   MINE 204   

    Prerequisites:
    MINE 107 Minimum Grade of 60


  • MINE 204  Mine Design and Planning
  • You will apply your knowledge of mining methods to design mine plans. Using computer software, you will develop and evaluate layouts for various mining methods. You will consider how economics and scheduling impacts your mining plan.

    5.0 Credit Units
    75.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Corequisites:   GRND 201   

    Prerequisites:
    GRND 200 Minimum Grade of 60 and MINE 201 Minimum Grade of 60


  • MINE 205  3D Drafting and Underground Software
  • You will apply skills, acquired in drafting and surveying courses, to input data into AutoCAD and other 3D mining software packages. You will construct and manipulate simple geological models.

    5.0 Credit Units
    70.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Corequisites:   SRVY 206   

    Prerequisites:
    MINE 203 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)


  • MVNT 201  Mine Ventilation Planning and Design
  • You will apply the theories and concepts of mine ventilation, mine environment and ventilation controls to mine ventilation problem solving and design. You will apply mine ventilation simulation software to find mine ventilation solutions.



    5.0 Credit Units
    71.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Prerequisites:
    FMEC 200 Minimum Grade of 60 and MVNT 200 Minimum Grade of 60


  • PROJ 297  Project
  • Based on your knowledge, you will learn how to select and define a technical project. Your practice will include finding design solutions for a problem and then preparing and presenting your technical solutions to the mining client.

    4.0 Credit Units
    57.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Corequisites:   GRND 201    MINE 203    MINE 204    MVNT 201    TCOM 104   

    Prerequisites:
    ELEC 216 Minimum Grade of 60 and GRND 200 Minimum Grade of 60 and MINE 109 Minimum Grade of 60 and MINE 200 Minimum Grade of 60 and MINE 201 Minimum Grade of 60 and MVNT 200 Minimum Grade of 60 and PROJ 287 Minimum Grade of 60 and SRVY 206 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)


  • SRVY 206  Underground Surveying
  • You will apply your survey skills to an underground type setting. You will apply concepts of underground mapping and coordinate systems.

    5.0 Credit Units
    80.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Prerequisites:
    SRVY 123 Minimum Grade of 60


  • TCOM 104  Applied Research in Technology
  • You will develop a technical proposal and apply advanced research skills to a technical problem. You will use the technical problem-solving process in an applied research project and present your research findings in a written report and oral presentation.

    2.0 Credit Units
    34.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Prior Learning

    Equivalent Course(s):   COMM 115    COMM 182    COMM 290   

    Prerequisites:
    TCOM 103 Minimum Grade of 60



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