Geological EngineeringBS

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This unique program combines geology - the study of the earth - and engineering. Geological engineers work to understand the physical and mechanical behavior of earth materials to address engineering challenges.

Customize Your Path to Success

At South Dakota Mines, we believe in helping you discover your passion. Our flexible curriculum allows you to explore diverse areas of geological engineering, including:

Geotechnical Engineering

Evaluate the physical and mechanical behavior of soil and rock, and design solutions for foundations and slopes in an environmentally friendly way.

Groundwater Resources 

Identify surface and groundwater resources and mitigate water contamination to help secure access to the most important natural resource on the planet, water.

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Surface Water Resources

Understand the cyclic nature of streamflow, and design structures to convey floodwaters safely through developed areas.

Mine Engineering

Facilitate the operation of mines through the design of safe underground excavations and slopes, as well as through impactful environmentally friendly reclamation efforts.

Geo-Energy

Support energy prosperity by advancing both petroleum-based energy solutions, and sustainable technologies, including geothermal and other renewable energy sources.

Engineering Geophysics

Implement efforts that allow a better understanding of subsurface conditions through the application of geophysical techniques.


The Geological Engineering (BS) program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org, under the commission’s General Criteria and Program Criteria for Geological and Similarly Named Engineering Programs.


 

Featured Courses

Geology for Engineers
Surveying for Mining and Geological Engineers
Statistical Methods in Geology and Geological Engineering
Engineering and Environmental Geology
Geothermal and Production Engineering

Credits

130 credits

Geology & Geological Engineering Department

 

Expand your horizons

Course Catalog
Take advantage of internship opportunities and research experiences to test-drive different industries to find the best fit for your interests.

Potential Employers

• Braun Intertec
• Freeport McMoRan
• Inberg-Miller Engineering
• Montana DOT
• US Army
• Coeur Mining

Career Examples

• mineral resource extraction
• petroleum exploration, production, and service
• hazard mitigation
• engineering consulting
• water resource development and protection

Average Starting Salary

$64,000
Course Catalog