Materials & Metallurgical Engineering
Video
Forge the future in the Department of Materials & Metallurgical Engineering at South Dakota Mines! Here, students turn raw minerals into the materials that power modern technology. From surgical implants and superconductors to automobiles and spacecraft, metallurgical engineers create the advanced alloys that shape our world.
You'll explore the full lifecycle of materials during your studies at Mines – from extraction and processing to sustainable recycling and innovation in new alloys. With a strong emphasis on hands-on learning, students gain experience through internships, co-ops, and research alongside faculty and industry partners. As one of the few specialized programs of its kind, our Metallurgical Engineering degree opens doors to high-demand careers in industries spanning aerospace, electronics, and energy.
Department Overview
Learn more about the Department of Materials & Metallurgical Engineering and explore opportunities to get involved through hands-on activities and professional organizations.
The Minerals, Metals and Materials Society (TMS)
The Minerals, Metals & Materials Society (TMS) is a professional association that connects minerals, metals, and materials scientists
and engineers who work in industry, academia, and government positions around the
world.
Society of Mining Engineers (SME)
Explore the exciting career paths integral to the modern mining industry, now playing on SME Studios.
ASM International - The Materials Information Society
ASM connects materials professionals with the finest resources available to solve problems,
improve materials performance, and support professional development.
Association for Iron & Steel Technology (AIST)
The Association for Iron & Steel Technology (AIST) is a non-profit organization with 18,500 members from more than 70 countries. With
29 committees representing all facets of the iron and steel manufacturing process
and 22 local chapters spread across six continents, AIST represents an incomparable
network of steel knowledge and expertise.
American Ceramic Society (ACerS)
The American Ceramic Society (ACerS) is among the most trusted sources of knowledge for ceramic materials and applications.
American Institute of Mining, Metallurgical, and Petroleum Engineers (AIME)
One of the first national engineering societies established in the United States, AIME is committed to sharing best practices and participating in collaborative opportunities to enhance the profession and society.
Material Advantage
With a single, low-cost membership, the Material Advantage™ student program provides access to the materials science and engineering professional's most preeminent societies.
Research Focus Areas
The 10-week Black Hills Applied Ceramic Engineering summer program, better known as BACE camp, offers participants the opportunity to engage in several unique research projects.
Additive Manufacturing
Materials processing is a key component of all manufacturing, and additive manufacturing in particular. Knowing the history of a material (its origin, crystal structure, chemical formulation, etc.) and effectively influencing its processing is integral to improving the engineering pathway to high-quality, functional products.
Reconstructing the Paleoenvironment
Western South Dakota, especially areas like Badlands National Park, preserves one of the best archives of past climate from a period of geological time marked globally by cooling and increased aridity. In this research, rocks and minerals help geologists reconstruct the past.
The Mystery of Poor Concrete Mixes
In recent years, structural concrete mixes for transportation infrastructure in South Dakota have not met the specified strength requirements. The cause of the poor performance of these mixes remains a mystery – and one that is investigated at BACE summer camp.
Have more questions?
Dr. Michael West