Devon university relaunches mining degree

The University of Exeter said it has relaunched its mining undergraduate course in Cornwall

A university has relaunched its undergraduate mining engineering degree.

The University of Exeter said the programme, delivered by experts from Camborne School of Mines, was being reintroduced at its Penryn Campus in Cornwall after a five-year hiatus.

The establishment said the first cohort of undergraduate mining engineering students were due to be welcomed in the 2025.

President and vice-chancellor, Prof Lisa Roberts, said one of the university's key missions for its strategy 2030 goal was to lead "meaningful action against climate emergency and ecological crisis".

'Rich tradition'

"Mining is integral to modern society and as we look to transition to Net Zero, the demand for critical minerals is only going to increase," said Prof Roberts.

“We know that one of the largest concerns in recent years of the mining industry is the recruitment of new graduates and I am delighted to be able to announce the relaunch of our undergraduate Mining Engineering degree."

Head of Camborne School of Mines Prof Pat Foster said the school had a "rich tradition" of ensuring thousands of students had the very best qualifications to forge successful careers across the globe.

She said: “The work that we do have never been more crucial, as we transition towards net zero and the demand for critical minerals increases.

"It is vital that we are at the forefront of supporting future generations of mining engineers, to help build a greener future for us all.”

Andrew Fulton, president of the Mining Association of the UK and chairperson of the UK Mining Education Forum, said the reintroduction was "extremely positive news for the UK mining industry".

"We as an industry will support this programme to ensure its long-term success," added Mr Fulton.