Geological Engineering
Bachelor’s Degree
Build Your Future Today
The Bachelor of Science in Geological Engineering curriculum provides a strong basis in geological science and traditional engineering along with specialized upper level instruction in integrated applications to real problems. Geological Engineers deal with a wide variety of resource and environmental problems that come with accommodating more and more people on a finite planet. This program prepares graduates for careers that focus on the interaction between humans and earth. Undergraduate students learn a variety of vital topics and skills in our program, including how to:
- Evaluate and stabilize foundations for buildings, roads and other structures
- Locate, develop and protect water supplies
- Find and extract mineral and energy resources (such as oil, gas and coal) safely and with care for the environment
- Characterize contaminated sites and groundwater for cleanup
For this degree, undergraduate students follow five general career paths: Geological Engineering/Geotechnics, Hydrology, Energy Exploration and Development, Mineral Exploration and Development and Geological Science.
The geological engineering curriculum emphasizes laboratory and field experience, including five weeks of geology and geological engineering fieldwork across Colorado and Utah, including at Arches National Park.
Learn more about our exciting program here: Department of Geology and Geological Engineering website.
Experiential major menus
Uniquely tailored to your undergraduate major of choice, these menus offer a wide array of extra-curricular activities that complement and enrich the traditional classroom experience.
Explore the extra-curricular activities that complement your degree.
Geological Engineering at a glance
Hands-on research opportunities
Nationally ranked program
Approx. $60,000 in scholarships offered for field camp each year
Professor Sonnenberg recognized with AAPG Lifetime Contribution Award
The Geological Engineering curriculum provides a strong foundation in the basic sciences, mathematics, geological science and basic engineering along with specialized upper-level instruction in integrated applications to real problems. Engineering design is integrated throughout the four-year program, beginning in Design I (freshman year) and ending with the capstone design courses in the senior year.
Geological Engineering Curriculum
Areas of Special Interest
- Geological Engineering
Available Minor
- Geological Engineering
Career options for geological engineering majors:
- Environmental consulting
- Geological engineering
- Hydrology & Groundwater Resources
- Mineral exploration and development
- Energy exploration and development
- Local, State and Federal Government agencies
- Climate and environmental opportunities
- Scientific research
Faculty Spotlight
Gabriel Walton
Gabriel Walton is the associate department head and professor for the Geology and Geological Engineering department.
Research Interests:
- Rock Mechanics
- Numerical modelling of slopes and underground works
- Rockmass characterization
- Applications of geophysics and remote sensing in Geological Engineering
Making Mines more affordable
Mines’ financial assistance program awards more than $60 million per year, and over 82 percent of the student body receives some form of financial aid.
Why study geological engineering at Mines?
The Colorado School of Mines Department of Geology and Geological Engineering is one of the premier applied geoscience programs in the world. Our faculty, staff, and students engage in a wide range of fundamental and applied research critical to Earth, energy, and the environment — including mineral and energy resources, underground construction and tunneling, geological hazards, geochemistry, and surface and groundwater resources.
Why do so many students choose Mines?
- World-class laboratory facilities
- Access to some of the best field sites in the world
- Faculty with diverse areas of interest and expertise
- Specialized capstone design courses
- Take part in a truly unique university environment with our traditions including the M Climb and Engineering Days
Career Outcomes
By studying geological engineering at Mines, you’ll be equipped with the skills, expertise and passion to take that next step—where it may take you. With an annual career fair featuring 400+ employers, it’s clear that Mines graduates are highly sought after and valued.
Many of our geological engineering major have gone on to work in a variety of related fields for top industry partners—both nationally and internationally. Some of the leading career options for our majors include:
- Environmental consulting
- Geological engineering
- Hydrology & Groundwater Resources
- Mineral exploration and development
- Energy exploration and development
- Local, State and Federal Government agencies
- Climate and environmental opportunities
- Scientific research