Geological EngineeringBS

Geology and Geological Engineering Department

This unique program combines geology - the study of the Earth - with engineering. At South Dakota Mines, geological engineering students learn about the physical and mechanical behaviors of earth materials, preparing them to address some of the world's most significant engineering challenges.

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Don’t miss out on scholarship opportunities for new students starting the bachelor’s degree in Geological Engineering at South Dakota Mines! You must be admitted to qualify. Apply today and launch your future in one of the nation’s top engineering programs.

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What do Geological Engineers Do?

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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

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
Course Catalog

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.

Surface Water Resources

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

Mining Engineering

Facilitate the operation of mines through the design of safe underground excavations and slopes, as well as 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 enhance understanding of subsurface conditions through the application of geophysical techniques.

The Bachelor of Science in Geological Engineering program at South Dakota Mines 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.

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

Potential Employers

Geotechnical/environmental consulting
Mining companies
Energy companies
Geological surveys
Department of Transportation

Career Examples

Geotechnical/geohazard engineering
Mining engineering
Energy engineering
Environmental engineering/regulation
Water resources development and protection

The Black Hills area is an excellent place to learn about geology, and field trips have provided invaluable hands-on learning. My courses so far have been very engaging, and the faculty have been welcoming and helpful throughout. As I look forward to my future career, studying geological engineering at South Dakota Mines has equipped me with the educational background necessary for industry and research.

Kelli Siemieniak

Geological Engineering Student