Geological EngineeringBS

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.
What do Geological Engineers Do?
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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.
Program Highlights
Geology & Geological Engineering DepartmentFeatured 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
Featured Research
- Slope Stability and Geohazard Mitigation
- Land Surface Monitoring (InSAR)
- Water Resource Management
- Water Quality Monitoring Programs
- Geomechanics
- Geothermal Energy Development
- Geo-Energy Systems
Expand your horizons
Course CatalogPotential Employers
- Geotechnical/Environmental Consulting
- Mining Companies
- Geological Surveys
- Department of Transportation
- Energy Companies
Career Examples
- Geotechnical/Geohazard Engineering
- Mine Engineering
- Environmental Engineering/Regulation
- Water Resources Development and Protection
- Energy Engineering