Programme Specification for the 2025/6 academic year
BEng (Hons) Mining Engineering (September 2025 cohort)
1. Programme Details
| Programme name | BEng (Hons) Mining Engineering (September 2025 cohort) | Programme code | UFN3MINMINCA |
|---|---|---|---|
| Study mode(s) | Academic year | 2025/6 | |
| Campus(es) | Cornwall Campus |
NQF Level of the Final Award | 6 (Honours) |
2. Description of the Programme
Natural resources are required for our everyday activities: from provision of essential commodities and construction materials to supply of critical minerals to drive the green transition. Well managed responsible extraction of natural resources is therefore essential for modern society to function.
The resource sector faces unprecedented global demand for sustainable, efficient operating solutions as demand for minerals increases and governments move to implement climate change directives. Skilled graduates with expertise in Mining Engineering will be at the forefront of delivering change and achieving a sustainable, net carbon future.
This programme in Mining Engineering will provide you with the theoretical and practical skills necessary to design, operate, manage, and optimise mining operations. The curriculum integrates core principles of engineering, geology, and environmental science to equip you with the ability to safely and sustainably extract resources from the earth. The programme combines classroom-based learning with hands-on experience through laboratory sessions, field trips, and industrial placements.
You will study a broad range of topics: the underlying maths, digital, geology and physics skills that inform engineering, then mine design, operations, processing, automation, risk, safety, economics, environment and social governance.
Upon graduation you will be prepared for technical roles in mining operations, resource management, and engineering design, with understanding of the operational, environmental, and economic challenges facing the global mining industry.
3. Educational Aims of the Programme
The educational aims of this programme are to:
- Provide students with a comprehensive foundation in the core disciplines of mining engineering, including geology, rock mechanics, mineral processing, mine ventilation, and safety engineering.
- Develop analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills that will enable graduates to address complex engineering challenges in the mining sector.
- Equip students with an understanding of the environmental, societal, and economic implications of mining, fostering a commitment to sustainable and responsible mining practices.
- Promote professional skills that prepare students for entry into technical roles within the mining industry.
- Prepare students professional development within the field of mining engineering.
4. Programme Structure
The BEng Mining Engineering programme is a 3-year programme of study at National Qualification Framework (NQF) level 6 (as confirmed against the FHEQ). This programme is divided into 3 Stages. Each Stage is normally equivalent to an academic year.
The programme is also divided into units of study called ‘modules’ which are assigned a number of ‘credits’. The credit rating of a module is proportional to the total workload, with 1 credit being nominally equivalent to 10 hours of work.
You will be located at the Cornwall Campus of the University of Exeter for the duration of your study.
Interim Awards:
If you do not complete the programme you may be able to exit with a lower qualification. If you have achieved 120 credits, you may be awarded a Certificate of Higher Education, and if you achieve 240 credits, where at least 90 credits are at Stage 2 (NQF Level 5) or above, you may be awarded a Diploma.
5. Programme Modules
The following tables describe the programme and constituent modules. Constituent modules may be updated, deleted or replaced as a consequence of the annual programme review of this programme.
Stage 1
120 credits of compulsory modules
Compulsory Modules
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| ENE1011 | Engineering Mathematics and Scientific Computing | 30 | Yes |
| ENE1012 | Multi-Disciplinary Group Challenge Project | 30 | Yes |
| ENE1017 | Fundamentals of Engineering | 15 | Yes |
| ENE1014 | Fundamentals of Mechanics | 15 | Yes |
| ENE1015 | Fundamentals of Materials | 15 | Yes |
| ENE1016 | Fundamentals of Electronics | 15 | Yes |
Stage 2
120 credits of compulsory modules
Compulsory Modules
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| ENE2011 | Discipline Group Challenge Project | 30 | Yes |
| CSM2324 | Resource Cycle and Value Chain | 30 | Yes |
| CSM2325 | Resource Extraction Methods | 15 | Yes |
| CSM2329 | Resource Development | 30 | Yes |
| CSM2185 | Geotechnics | 15 | Yes |
Stage 3
120 credits of compulsory modules.
Compulsory Modules
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| CSM3414 | Individual Project | 30 | Yes |
| CSM3410 | Resource Infrastructure and Mine Services | 30 | Yes |
| CSM3411 | Mineral Processing, Recycling and Resource Recovery | 15 | Yes |
| CSM3409 | Politics, Mining and Sustainable Development | 15 | Yes |
| CSM3038 | Surface Excavation Design | 15 | Yes |
| CSM3041 | Tunnelling and Excavation Design | 15 | Yes |
6. Programme Outcomes Linked to Teaching, Learning and Assessment Methods
Intended Learning Outcomes
A: Specialised Subject Skills and Knowledge
| Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) On successfully completing this programme you will be able to: | Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be... | |
|---|---|---|
| ...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class): | ...and evidenced by the following assessment methods: | |
1. A sound knowledge of mathematics and engineering fundamentals with an ability to apply this to mining and minerals related issues, including design. | Material is introduced by lectures and directed reading/research and students are given very clear guidance in how to manage their learning. Understanding is developed and consolidated in tutorials and by laboratory and private study Fundamental aspects of the principles of engineering (1) are introduced throughout the common first year. In the second year the students start to focus on (2) with modules covering the Resource Cycle & Value chain (which incorporate fundamental geology). This continues in Year 3 with modules covering the design of underground and surface operations Mine Surveying is taught within the Group Challenge project in Year 2. Between stage 2 and stage 3 students must complete a minimum of 8 weeks’ vacation work in an appropriate industrial position. (3) is introduced in Year 2 with the module on Resource Development and continues into the third year with the module on Resource Infrastructure & Mine Services (4) is covered by project management techniques introduced in the Challenge Project in the first year and then specifically mining related in modules such as Politics & SD. (5) is covered in the Politics & SD module in year 3 | Direct assessment is through a range of formal written examinations, and marked coursework in the form of problem sheets, laboratory reports, reports/essays based on directed reading and research. Project work is assessed through a combination of supervisor's report, peer assessment and formal assessment of final reports and presentations. The production of a satisfactory vacation report is compulsory and is assessed under (CSM 3410). |
Intended Learning Outcomes
B: Academic Discipline Core Skills and Knowledge
| Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) On successfully completing this programme you will be able to: | Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be... | |
|---|---|---|
| ...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class): | ...and evidenced by the following assessment methods: | |
6. Ability to apply mathematical, physical, and engineering principles to analyse and solve problems in mining engineering. | (6) and (7) are integrated into most modules and developed steadily throughout the 3 years Similarly (8) is integrated in most modules from the 2nd year but there are specific standalone modules in Years 3. Knowledge related to (9) starts with the Challenge Project in the first year and continues with those project-based learning modules in Year 2 as well as the Group Project in Year 3. Project management skills are introduced as early as year 1, while specific mining skills on excavation design are in Year 3. Similarly academic knowledge and skills related to (10) and (11) start in Year 1. Practical skills are developed in laboratory work carried out as an integral part of many modules, and research skills specifically with the Group and Individual Projects throughout the 3 years. | Analytical skills are assessed within many modules through a range of formal written examinations, and marked coursework in the form of problem sheets etc. Direct assessment is through a range of formal written examinations, and marked coursework in the form of problem sheets, laboratory reports, reports/essays Project work is assessed through a combination of supervisor's report, peer assessment and formal assessment of final reports and presentations. |
Intended Learning Outcomes
C: Personal/Transferable/Employment Skills and Knowledge
| Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) On successfully completing this programme you will be able to: | Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be... | |
|---|---|---|
| ...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class): | ...and evidenced by the following assessment methods: | |
12. Communicate with colleagues, stakeholders and other interested parties using a range of different methods and techniques, challenging and influencing, where appropriate. | All these skills are introduced within the common first year of the programme and then used increasing through the subsequence years. (12) (14) and (15) are developed through regular oral and written presentations of work, particularly in the Challenge Projects but also within other assessments. Students are also required to carry out regular | Assessment of key skills is mostly through items of coursework: written and oral presentations, and through project work. Group work is assessed within the Challenge and Individual projects in Years 1-3. |
7. Programme Regulations
Classification
Full details of assessment regulations for all taught programmes can be found in the TQA Manual, specifically in the Credit and Qualifications Framework, and the Assessment, Progression and Awarding: Taught Programmes Handbook. Additional information, including Generic Marking Criteria, can be found in the Learning and Teaching Support Handbook.
8. College Support for Students and Students' Learning
Personal and Academic tutoring: It is University policy that all Departments should have in place a system of academic and personal tutors. The role of academic tutors is to support you on individual modules; the role of personal tutors is to provide you with advice and support for the duration of the programme and extends to providing you with details of how to obtain support and guidance on personal difficulties such as accommodation, financial difficulties and sickness. You can also make an appointment to see individual teaching staff.
Students have access to good computing and library facilities at the Tremough Campus. Computer-based exercises and web-based learning materials are a feature of the programme, which can be accessed via the internet. IT Services provide a range of central services, including open and training clusters of PCs (available on a 24/7 basis) within the Centre. Network access is available from all rooms in the hall of residence on site. On the Tremough campus in Cornwall, the Learning Resource Centre contains a library of 70,000 volumes and some specialist collections. In addition, students have full access to the central University of Exeter library, including the electronic library resources.
Online Module study resources provide materials for modules that you are registered for, in addition to some useful subject and IT resources. Generic study support resources, library and research skills, past exam papers, and the 'Academic Honesty and Plagiarism' module are also available through the student portal (http://ele.exeter.ac.uk)
Student/Staff Liaison Committee enables students and staff to jointly participate in the management and review of the teaching and learning provision.
9. University Support for Students and Students' Learning
Please refer to the University Academic Policy and Standards guidelines regarding support for students and students' learning.
10. Admissions Criteria
Undergraduate applicants must satisfy the Undergraduate Admissions Policy of the University of Exeter.
Postgraduate applicants must satisfy the Postgraduate Admissions Policy of the University of Exeter.
Specific requirements required to enrol on this programme are available at the respective Undergraduate or Postgraduate Study Site webpages.
11. Regulation of Assessment and Academic Standards
Each academic programme in the University is subject to an agreed College assessment and marking strategy, underpinned by institution-wide assessment procedures.
The security of assessment and academic standards is further supported through the appointment of External Examiners for each programme. External Examiners have access to draft papers, course work and examination scripts. They are required to attend the Board of Examiners and to provide an annual report. Annual External Examiner reports are monitored at both College and University level. Their responsibilities are described in the University's code of practice. See the University's TQA Manual for details.
14. Awarding Institution
University of Exeter
15. Lead College / Teaching Institution
Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy (ESE)
16. Partner College / Institution
Partner College(s)
Not applicable to this programme
Partner Institution
N/A
17. Programme Accredited / Validated by
Not applicable to this programme.
18. Final Award
BEng (Hons) Mining Engineering (September 2025 cohort)
19. UCAS Code
J117
20. NQF Level of Final Award
6 (Honours)
21. Credit
| CATS credits | 360 |
ECTS credits | 180 |
|---|
22. QAA Subject Benchmarking Group
Level 1
23. Dates
| Origin Date | 03/10/2024 |
Date of last revision | 29/07/2025 |
|---|
