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Updated in [March 06th, 2023]

Operational Foundations of Mining is a course that provides an in-depth exploration of the different planning levels, mining methods, downstream beneficiation activities and ancillary services involved in the mining life-cycle. Through this course, students will gain an understanding of the key unit procedures involved in different mining operations, as well as the various intermediate products that are sold at different stages along the value chain. A systems perspective will be used to highlight the opportunities for integration along the value chain to meet multi-faceted objectives including profitability, efficiency, safety and sustainability. The course will also explore how the application of orebody knowledge across the mining life-cycle can have significant impacts on mining and processing operations. Additionally, students will be introduced to the relevant processing stages that follow the discovery and mining of mineral deposits, focusing on the various unit operations in the treatment of an orebody from identification through to a marketable mineral product. This interactive course incorporates videos, expert insights, case studies and discussions to deepen students' current understanding of the technical operations of a mining business.

[Applications]
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to apply the knowledge gained to their own mining operations. They will be able to identify the different planning levels, mining methods, downstream beneficiation activities and ancillary services that are necessary for successful mining operations. Participants will also be able to use a systems perspective to explore the opportunities for integration along the value chain to meet multi-faceted objectives including profitability, efficiency, safety and sustainability. Additionally, participants will be able to identify the relevant processing stages that follow the discovery and mining of mineral deposits, and the various unit operations in the treatment of an orebody from identification through to a marketable mineral product.

[Career Paths]
1. Mining Engineer: Mining engineers are responsible for the planning, design, and operation of mines. They are also responsible for the safety and efficiency of the mining process. As the industry continues to evolve, mining engineers must stay up to date with the latest technologies and trends in order to remain competitive.

2. Mineral Processing Engineer: Mineral processing engineers are responsible for the design and operation of mineral processing plants. They must be knowledgeable in the latest technologies and trends in order to maximize efficiency and profitability.

3. Geologist: Geologists are responsible for the exploration and evaluation of mineral deposits. They must be knowledgeable in the latest technologies and trends in order to identify and evaluate potential mineral deposits.

4. Environmental Engineer: Environmental engineers are responsible for the design and implementation of environmental protection measures in the mining industry. They must be knowledgeable in the latest technologies and trends in order to ensure that mining operations are conducted in an environmentally responsible manner.

[Education Paths]
1. Bachelor of Science in Mining Engineering: This degree program focuses on the science and technology of extracting minerals from the earth. It covers topics such as geology, mineralogy, surveying, geostatistics, mine planning, rock mechanics, ventilation, environmental protection, and safety. Students will also learn about the economics of mining, including the cost of production, marketing, and transportation. This degree is ideal for those interested in a career in the mining industry, as it provides a comprehensive understanding of the industry and its operations.

2. Master of Science in Mineral Processing: This degree program focuses on the processing of minerals from the earth. It covers topics such as mineralogy, geochemistry, hydrometallurgy, pyrometallurgy, and process engineering. Students will learn about the principles of mineral processing, including the physical and chemical processes involved in the extraction and purification of minerals. This degree is ideal for those interested in a career in the mineral processing industry, as it provides a comprehensive understanding of the industry and its operations.

3. Doctor of Philosophy in Mining Engineering: This degree program focuses on the research and development of new technologies and processes for the mining industry. It covers topics such as geology, mineralogy, surveying, geostatistics, mine planning, rock mechanics, ventilation, environmental protection, and safety. Students will also learn about the economics of mining, including the cost of production, marketing, and transportation. This degree is ideal for those interested in a career in the mining industry, as it provides a comprehensive understanding of the industry and its operations, as well as the opportunity to develop new technologies and processes.

4. Master of Science in Mining and Mineral Economics: This degree program focuses on the economics of the mining and mineral industries. It covers topics such as mineral economics, mineral markets, mineral pricing, and mineral policy. Students will learn about the economics of mining, including the cost of production, marketing, and transportation. This degree is ideal for those interested in a career in the mining and mineral industries, as it provides a comprehensive understanding of the industry and its operations, as well as the opportunity to develop new economic models and strategies.