Master of Engineering

FAQ

Why study in the MEng Program?

The mission of the Norman B. Keevil Institute’s Master of Engineering Program is to provide a world-class professional development program, preparing students for leading roles within the global mining industry.

The M.Eng. program may be suitable for you if:

  1. You are a professional engineer, working in the mining industry, and you wish to upgrade your skills.
  2. You are a recent mining engineering graduate from an international university and you wish to gain a recognized Canadian graduate degree.
  3. You are an engineering graduate in a field related to mining and mineral processing (for example, Metallurgical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Geology or Geological Engineering, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemistry, Physics or Environmental Sciences), and you wish to gain an entry into the mining inadustry

Is the Master of Engineering a recognized Canadian Degree?

Yes, UBC has been offering MEng degrees since 1961, to both Canadian and International Students. Graduates receive a Master of Engineering degree, from the University of British Columbia.

How has the COVID-19 Pandemic Affected Program Delivery?

We are fortunate that UBC has invested in online teaching and learning technology that allow seamless online delivery of course material.  For the first time ever we have people taking courses together while working at remote mining locations in Africa, South America, North America and India.

Where is the program housed?

Courses are usually held at UBC’s Point Grey campus in Vancouver, Canada.

Is the MEng Degree only for international students?

The MEng program is open to Canadian and International students.

What qualifications are necessary?

Qualifications can vary somewhat with where you received your previous education. As a guide, you must have:

  1. A bachelor’s degree in Mining Engineering, Mineral Process Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Geology or Geological Engineering, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemistry, Physics or Environmental Sciences.
  2. A minimum grade average of B+ (76%), depending on where you graduated.
  3. Completed an English proficiency test such as the IELTS (6.5 overall, no band less than 6.0) or TOEFL (90 iBT overall, with 22 reading, 21 writing, 22 listening and 21 speaking).

See M.Eng Admission Requirements for more information.

How long does the program take?

You must be registered in the program for a minimum of three terms, for a total of 12 months.

There are three types of schedule options available:

1. Course-based Option (13 months)

Description: Students arrive in August for orientation and complete all of their course requirements over a 13 month period.

Advantages: Short, intensive study period.

2. Work Placement Option (21 months)

Description: Students arrive in August for orientation and complete two terms of courses. Afterward the students work for an eight month term with a mining company, then return to finish their project or remaining courses.

Advantages: Students gain valuable hands-on experience with Canadian or international mining companies, while gaining a significant revenue stream to finance their education.

3. Flexible Option (Up to 2 years)

Description: Students come to Vancouver to study for one 5-month term and two four-month terms over a two year period. For example, students could come in August, complete the orientation and one term of academic courses, return to their base location to work for a year, return the following January to complete their course work, project and all other program requirements by the next August.

Advantages: Allows students to continue working at a company while completing the program.

How much does the program cost? (Please note that tuition and student fees are subject to change without notice)

International Students:

The cost of the Master of Engineering in Mining Engineering (MEng) Program for international students is as follows:

  • Tuition: $8,370/ term for 3 terms (12 months): $25,110 Click here for more information latest tuition information.
  • M.Eng. Activity Fee: $7,000
  • Students Fees: Approximately $1,117 per year. Click here for more information.
  • Co-op Workshop Fee: $277.
  • Co-op Internship Fee: $855/term for 2 terms (8 months): $1,710.
  • Total University Related Expenses: $32,227, ($35,214 with Co-op)
  • Cost of living varies significantly by student, based on accommodation costs and lifestyle. A conservative estimate is $1,450/month.

Students from Canada:

The cost of the Master of Engineering in Mining Engineering (MEng) Program for students from Canada or Permanent Residents is as follows:

Tuition: $2,235/ term for 3 terms (12 months): $6,704. Click here for more information latest tuition information.

  • M.Eng. Activity Fee: $7,000
  • Students Fees: Approximately $1,117 per year. Click here for more information.
  • Co-op Workshop Fee: $277.
  • Co-op Internship Fee: $855/term for 2 terms (8 months): $1,710.
  • Total University Related Expenses: $14,821 ($17,808 with Co-op)
  • Cost of living varies significantly by student, based on accommodation costs and lifestyle. A conservative estimate is $1,450/month.

What does the activity fee pay for?

The activity fee pays for the orientation program, including field trips and other activities, short courses, online courses, and a number of other expenses throughout the program. See M.Eng. Orientation for more information.

Am I paid during the internship term?

Yes, salaries typically range from $3,000 to $7,500 per month.

What is the payment schedule for tuition and activity fee?

Take a look at this: Student Cashflow_Estimate_Oct 2022

How likely am I to get an internship?

It really depends on you.  If you have good communication skills and are willing to submit lots of applications for jobs you have a good chance of securing work.  Having some work experience will also help.   In recent years we 100% of our students who were seeking a coop internship were successful in finding one.  We cannot guarantee a coop internship because it is up to you.  If you don’t apply for any jobs you will not get a coop.

Where can I find information about the Canadian Mining Market Labour Market?

The Mining Industry Human Resources Council monitors the Canadian Mining Labour Market. Here is their 2021 report.

What grades are necessary to pass?

Students are required to complete 30 credits, with most courses having 3 credits. The grade for six credits can be between 60-67%, and the rest must be at least 68%. All students are required to complete MINE 597 (Engineering Project), and to obtain a minimum of 12 credits from MINE 500-level courses in addition to MINE 597.

Are there any scholarships available?

The NBK_Future_of_Mining_Award_2022 is available to international applicants who submit a complete application by December 30.

What are the application deadlines?

Application materials from international and domestic students must be received by February 1.

Inquiries from Prospective Applicants

Please contact us by email at meng@mining.com should you require further information.