Overview
Mining engineers work at mineral extraction enterprises. They are responsible for organizing and managing mining operations, which include the extraction, recovery, and transportation of minerals from a mine. Mining engineers specialize in designing, developing, and testing the machinery, methods, and processes used to extract rock and minerals.

In addition to designing mines for mineral extraction, mining engineers may develop new innovative technologies that enable automated and autonomous mining operations, creating safe working conditions for miners through remote operations centers.

A BSc in Mining and Minerals Engineering is a four-year program in which students gain knowledge in mineral deposit evaluation, feasibility studies, and mine development using methods from the natural and applied sciences and mathematics. The program is designed to educate and prepare students to perform the various tasks carried out by mining engineers, including mine planning, design, operation, and closure in an environmentally responsible and economically efficient manner.
Testimonial

Meruyert Khudaibergen
Major: BSc Mining Engineering
Graduation Year: 2023
Being an alumna of Nazarbayev University opened doors for me that I could never have imagined. I graduated from NU in 2023 with a Bachelor's in Mining Engineering. Studying at a university with a strong and supportive faculty, an exceptional educational foundation, and surrounded by highly motivated people made my choice to study at NU an easy one.

The privilege of learning from top professionals in both academia and industry provided me with the necessary knowledge for the 'real world.' The professors not only supported us academically but also played a crucial role in our personal growth by mentoring and encouraging us. While learning how to use different software for Mining Engineering and completing lab work, I couldn't have imagined just how essential this experience would be in the future. Moreover, I had the incredible opportunity to work as a Research Assistant for nearly three years, participate in multiple field trips to visit mines, and intern with leading mining companies. This experience played a vital role in helping me secure a position as a Mining Engineer with a British consulting company, where I could apply all the skills I gained during my studies and excel in my new role.

Studying at Nazarbayev University gave me the opportunity to learn the latest industry trends and ignited my passion for Mining Engineering.
General information
  • Campus: Astana, Kazakhstan
  • Language: English
  • Delivery mode: Full time, on-campus
  • Duration: 4 years
  • Total ECTS credit: 250
Program Aims
The program mirrors the mission of the School of Mining and Geosciences by aiming:
  1. To equip students with the advanced level technical skills, tools, and knowledge needed within the mining industry.
  2. To develop the conceptualization skills of students in mining systems for operation of existing or development of new mines.
  3. To train engineers to solve complex engineering problems within the mining industry using their analytical, intellectual, and critical thinking skills.
  4. To conduct research to expand knowledge and technology to ensure safe, environmentally friendly, and economically viable prospection and extraction of minerals.
Key Advantages
  • 95%+ job placement rate within 1–2 months of graduation
    1
  • Internships with major companies: KazMinerals, ERG, Kazzinc, etc.
    2
  • Hands-on experience at real mining sites and underground operations across Kazakhstan
    3
  • Access to modern labs and industry-standard software: Datamine, Micromine, Rocscience
    4
  • Active student community and involvement in mining-related competitions and global conferences
    5
  • Focus on digital transformation and automation in mining (robotics, AI tools, simulation)
    6
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the program students will be able to:
  1. Identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics.
  2. Apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors.
  3. Communicate effectively with a range of audiences.
  4. Recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and make informed judgments, which must consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic, environmental, and societal contexts.
  5. Function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives.
  6. Develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions.
  7. Acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies.
What Will You Learn?
  • Complete Mine Planning & Design

    Fundamentals of open-pit and underground mine design using real-world data.
  • Geomechanics, Ventilation & Sustainable Mining
    Basics of rock mechanics, airflow control, and environmental responsibility.
  • Mining Software Applications
    Introductory training in Datamine, Rocscience, and Micromine.
  • Fieldwork & Labs
    On-site experience at Kazakhstan’s mining operations + lab work.
Curriculum
Electives

  • Engineering Economics
  • Mine Risk Management
  • Mining and Environment
Handbook
Core modules
The list of core modules
Elective Courses
Where do our graduates work?
  • Career opportunities
    • Mine planning drill and blast
    • Mines inspectorate leasing
    • Environmental monitoring
    • Engineering procurement and construction
    • Project coordination
    • Equipment optimization explosives applications
    • Investment banking
    • Resource/mining analyst
    • Project management
    • Environmental consultant
    • Research and consulting
  • Where?
    Top companies: KazMinerals, Kazzinc, RG Gold, Kazakhmys, Kazzinc, Solidcore resources, Altynalmas, SRK Consulting, ERG and others.
Admissions
Our Contacts
Feel free to write, call, and visit us.
Regarding consultation on admissions
On academic issues
Address:
Address: 53, Kabanbay batyr Ave., Astana, 010000, Kazakhstan.
Phone numbers
+7 (7172) 64 25 84
+7 747 094 02 30
Fees and Funding:

For more detailed information about tuition fees, please contact the Bursar's Office:
  • Phone: +7 (7172) 70 60 32, 70 91 99
  • Email: bursars_office@nu.edu.kz
  • Office: 1.248B Block 1
  • Address: 53, Kabanbay batyr Ave., Astana, 010000, Kazakhstan
Call or email us:
Admissions Manager (MSc PhD programs):
+7(7172)69-4628
altynay.kazhkenova@nu.edu.kz
6 block, 53 Kabanbay Batyr Ave
Astana city, Republic of Kazakhstan