CHEM 1105 covers topics of general chemistry including atomic structure, chemical formulas, stoichiometry, aqueous reactions and concentrations of solutions, acids and bases, periodic properties of the elements and basic concepts of chemical bonding. Laboratory exercises consist of qualitative and quantitative analysis and acid-base chemistry. The emphasis is on applications of chemical principles, chemical calculations and analysis, and the development of good laboratory skills.

Students learn how to write letters, memos, and routine email messages. They learn to write clear and concise sentences and paragraphs and to make documents easily accessible through headings, lists and white space. They learn how to avoid some common grammatical errors in their writing. They also learn to give an oral report based on library and online research on a new development in their technology. In addition, they learn how to prepare a resume and job application letter and fill out a job application form. Students also learn how to collaborate as part of a team to accomplish work related communication tasks.

Equations and Relations including polynomial, conic, power, exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric, and systems. Applications are stressed including graphical linear programming, exponential/logarithmic transformations, common and natural logarithms and logarithmic/semi-logarithmic graphs, radian measure and its applications. Solid geometry, formula creation, unit analysis, and math/computer models are important skills. Vectors and solution of triangles, with applications in forces, motions and navigation.

Introduces students to the wide scope of the mining industry and prepares them for further courses in mining. The course covers the breadth of the industry from mineral exploration through to processing and marketing of mining products. The importance of environmental considerations and sustainable development are introduced. Students will learn the terminology used in the industry in preparation for further courses taught during the program. Except for online courses, a visit to an active mining operation will form part of the course curriculum.

Presents an overview of the processes and materials that form and shape the planet Earth. The theory of plate tectonics is introduced and used as the basis of understanding the fundamental geological processes that operate both on, and beneath the Earth's surface. The formation and characteristics of minerals and development of the geological time scale, and deformation in the Earth's crust are reviewed as are an introduction to the geology of mineral and energy deposits and the geology of North America. Laboratory work includes identification of minerals, examination of geological maps and structures, and study of geological processes.

Prepares students for success in the Mining and Mineral Exploration Program by outlining success strategies in learning, time-management, and exam preparation. It will also outline the responsibilities that students have to their class and the program. These responsibilities will be structured around the expectations of industry in a working environment and will include aspects such as attendance, participation, preparedness, punctuality, team work, respect, and quality of work.

The course introduces students to the applications of computers in the mining industry and the architecture of personal computers. This is followed by an introduction to Microsoft’s Excel program and how to apply it in problem solving in the mining environment. Exercises in spreadsheet development are included in the course. The second part of the course presents an introduction to the functions and use of AutoCAD as a graphical tool for solving and displaying mining problems. The course introduces standard map conventions and engineering/scientific drawing requirements. Laboratory exercises focus on basic engineering drawings including mine layouts and topographic maps.

Covers data analysis, linear and rotational kinematics and dynamics, equilibrium, work, energy and power, stress and strain. The laboratory deals with the principles of measurement and the experimental method of acquiring knowledge.

Covers fundamental concepts and principles of surveying; datums, principle of differential leveling, bench mark and detail leveling, peg-test, grades, use of levels, theodolites and steel chains; linear measurements; angle measurements and reductions, directions, bearings, coordinate systems; gradients and cut and fill; field note-keeping and reductions; care, maintenance and adjustment of equipment.

Continues from CHEM 1105 and covers topics of inorganic chemistry including solubility equilibria, buffer solutions, oxidation and reduction reactions, electrochemistry, physical and chemical properties of gases, liquids and solids, phase diagrams and intermolecular forces. Electrochemistry includes electrochemical cells, applications of electrolysis, electrometallurgy, and corrosion. Lab work covers a variety of topics including electrochemical cells, ion exchange, spectrophotometric analysis, water hardness and alkalinity indices. Prerequisites: CHEM 1105

Presents a basic introduction to the relationship between applied loads and the resulting support reactions and internal forces developed in statically determinate members and structures. The course is delivered through lectures and problem solving sessions. Topics include classification of force systems, equilibrium equations, freebody diagrams, support conditions and reactions, frame analysis, load, shear force and bending moment diagrams for beams, and friction. This course lays the foundation for subsequent civil engineering courses taught to mining students. Prerequisites: MATH 1501

This course covers the following topics: functions and graphs; limits and continuity, the Intermediate Value Theorem; differentiation rules for algebraic, trigonometric, logarithmic and exponential functions and inverse trigonometric functions; applications of differentiation; Newton’s method; analytic geometry; anti-differentiation. Applications to the mining industry will be utilized. Problem-solving skills and solution presentation will be emphasized. Prerequisites: MATH 1501

The Mining Industry Work Experience involves enhancing the educational experience by integrating traditional academic studies with relevant work experience. Work terms are paid temporary jobs where students complete productive work that relates directly to the core competencies of the Mining and Mineral Exploration program. Job postings are approved by the BCIT Co-op Coordinator. Students in the program attend workshops to enhance their employability prior to their placement and compete for job postings during academic term 2. This an Optional/Selective course. Prerequisite: Current registration in BCIT’s Mining and Mineral Exploration Technology and successful completion of academic terms 1 and 2. Maintain a 70% Grade Point with no failures in academic terms 1 and 2. Successful Application and Admission to the Mining Industry Work Experience Program. Attendance at all pre-employment workshops.

Examines the formation, characteristics and classification of minerals and rocks. The crystallographic, chemical and physical properties of minerals, and the important rock-forming and economic mineral groups are discussed. Igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks and their relationship to mineral deposits are reviewed. The processes of rock formation are illustrated through a review of the geological evolution of British Columbia and other parts of North America. Laboratory exercises focus on the field identification of minerals and rocks and the interpretation of geological maps. Prerequisites: MINE 1101

Examines in detail aspects of the design, planning and operation of surface mines, and explosive theory and blasting practices as applied to surface mines. Topics include; mining methods, strategic mine planning, pit optimization, production scheduling, grade control and dilution, surface mining equipment, road design, drilling and blasting, safety and maintenance. Types of mining operations discussed include hard rock open pits, open cast coal mines and quarrying operations for industrial minerals. The concepts of cut off grade and stripping ratio are discussed in details and practiced. Lerches and Grossmann Pit optimization algorithm is discussed and practiced. The importance of grade control and dilution are explored and practiced. Production equipment are discussed and compared in detail such as trucks and shovels. Basic concepts of road design such as layouts, different curves, stopping distance and regulations are discussed. Information will be presented on various types of commercial explosives and blasting agents and their safe handling. Methods of initiation and timing of blasts will be discussed along with means to monitor and reduce blast vibration and damage. Prerequisites: MINE 1100

Provides an overview of environmental issues and practices that relate the mining industry. Topics include an historical overview of mining and the environment, an introduction to the principles and application of sustainability and the social licence to operate, a review of the origin and control of acid rock drainage and a survey of environmental applications throughout the mining life cycle including baseline studies, the environmental assessment processes, environmental applications at operating mines, reclamation and closure.

Provides an overview of key safety issues encountered in mineral exploration and mining work environments as well as the completion of WHMIS on-line course and Worksafe BC Occupational First Aid Level 1. Topics that will be discussed include the development of safe working habits, personal safety gear, work in remote camp settings, safe travel in the field, animal awareness, safe operation around aircraft, watercraft and heavy equipment, mine rescue, and hazards associated with mine gasses and fires.

Covers behaviours of fluids, thermal properties of matter, waves, electricity, magnetism, electromagnetic induction, DC and AC circuits. The lab component is comprised of experiments to complement the lectures. Prerequisites: PHYS 1147

Following on from SURV 1140, this course covers the application of vertical and horizontal angle measurements, together with distances, to compute elevations and coordinates; working with directions and bearings including use of magnetic compass. The total station, its calibration and use for horizontal and vertical traversing is introduced along with the calculation and adjustment of traverses. Several methods of area and volume computation are introduced. Introduction to GPS including handheld receivers. Prerequisites: SURV 1140

Introduction to ore processing methods, properties utilized in separation of ore from gangue, efficiency of concentrating operations, particle size measurement and size distribution data, crushing and screening, comminution theory, size reduction by grinding, sedimentation theory and application. Laboratory work and reports in the above topics.

This course provides an introduction to soil mechanics and hydraulic engineering considerations for mining technologists, focussing on basic knowledge for construction of tailings dams, mine haul roads, and excavations. Topics include soil classification, compaction, total and effective stresses, seepage and flow nets, retaining wall design, slip circle analysis, surface hydrology, and pipe sizing. Prerequisites: CIVL 2225

Descriptive statistics, including measures of central tendency and dispersion, and graphical presentation of data using Excel. Concepts of probability, probability distributions (including binomial, normal, Poisson, log-normal and chi-square distributions). Inferential statistics, including sampling, estimation, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, correlation and regression, and an introduction to statistical process control. Prerequisites: MATH 1501

Reviews the formation, characteristics and geometry of crustal deformation structures. The concepts of stress and strain and the mechanisms of deformation provide the background for a descriptive analysis of common deformation structures including joints, veins, faults, folds, planar and linear deformation fabrics and shear zones. The relationships between geological structures, mineral deposits and mining are examined throughout the course, as are the links between deformation and plate tectonics. Laboratory exercises focus on the visualization and graphical solution to three-dimensional structural problems and structural geology map problems. Some labs will involve analysis of structures in the field. Prerequisites: MINE 2101

Introduces the fundamentals of rock mechanics, and the objectives and techniques of geotechnical data collection. Concepts of stability of underground and surface excavations are presented in the context of rock stress field and rock mass structure. Support systems commonly utilized in underground and surface excavations are discussed with respect to their applications and safety requirements. Exercises will focus on geotechnical field mapping, graphical data presentation, core logging and rock strength testing. A mine site field trip for rock mapping exercise will be conducted during the course. Prerequisites: MINE 2105

Examines in detail the design, planning and operation of underground mines. Mining methods for different materials will be discussed with the emphasis on hard rock mining. The criteria for correct selection of underground mining methods will be presented in the context of orebody characteristics, required productivity and safety issues. Topics will include: general mine design, ground support requirements and techniques, sizes and types of underground openings, production planning, development and production cycles, mining equipment, mine ventilation and mine infrastructure. Prerequisites: MINE 2105

Provides an overview of the processes of formation and principle characteristics of major mineral deposits. Mineral deposit formation is discussed by considering the source, transportation and deposition of metals and minerals and the textures, forms and mineral alteration of common mineral deposits. This is followed by a survey of major mineral deposit types including precious and base metals, diamonds, coal and industrial minerals. Laboratory exercises will focus on the study of rock sample suites from mineral deposits in British Columbia and elsewhere in North America. Some labs will involve analysis of structures in the field. Prerequisites: MINE 2101

SURV 3340 builds on the foundation of SURV 2240 and covers the technical aspects of surveying in a variety of mining scenarios. At the end of the course, students will be able to transfer elevations over long sight lines using trigonometric methods, record survey observations electronically to perform control surveys for mining operations, topographic surveys for mining design and volume determination. Students will be encouraged to incorporate survey field work with SURPAC, AutoCAD or similar software to produce plots and summary sheets. LiDAR (laser scanning) as applicable to mining will be introducd. Prerequisites: SURV 2240

Covers methods for the determination of a wide variety of elements in various sample types related to mining. Emphasis is placed on selection of the most suitable technique for the particular samples under investigation. Techniques include precious metals by fire assaying, geochemical analysis, classical wet assaying and analytical instrumentation. Modern sampling theories are used to explain the critical requirement and importance of a representative sample. Sample contamination avoidance strategy is discussed by understanding comminution techniques and cross contamination probability. Instruments used are electrochemical, UV-visible, atomic absorption, inductively coupled plasma-optical emission and mass spectrometry and X-ray (fluorescence and diffraction) methods. Prerequisites: CHEM 2205

Separation of slurries into solid and liquid fractions by thickening, filtration and drying. Separation of economic minerals from gangue minerals by froth flotation. Classification and concentration of minerals according to their mass, shape and hydrophobicity. Introduction to the essential unit operations and processes encountered in hydrometallurgy. Prerequisites: CHSC 3314

In a workplace that varies from offices to tents to mountains to cities, graduates need to be able to present accurately and clearly technical and economic facts regarding mining projects. They need to be able to evaluate themselves and other members of their work teams and apply strategies to ensure members are all contributing effectively, that any conflict that occurs is productive, and decisions are made following a valid and efficient process. With the communication skills taught in this course, students should be able to reach these goals. To ensure that students are acquiring these communication skills in a technical context that is relevant to mining and mineral exploration, this communication course is closely coordinated with the students’ major mining course. To develop their teamwork and interpersonal skills, students complete team profiling exercises, practice effective meeting strategies, participate in two case-study simulations, and acquire the planning and editing skills for writing a composite team report. Students also prepare a professional resume, an application letter, and a sample answer appropriate for a professional job interview. Prerequisites: COMM 1135

Introduces students to the fundamentals of spatial data management and GIS technology as applied to the mapping, display, and analysis of mining data. Topics covered include fundamental concepts, definitions, organization of databases and GIS; data integration and conversion; spacial and non-spatial query, analysis, display and reporting. Labs will develop skills in the use of GIS and database software for managing and analyzing mining data.

This course introduces the fundamentals of cost estimation methodologies and economic evaluations for mining projects. Topics covered will include; types and levels of cost estimates, cost estimation techniques, the theory of time value of money, the use of cash flow projections for project analysis, financing options for mining projects and the marketing of mineral products. Techniques used in industry for estimating capital and operating costs will be explained and practiced through a series of cost estimation exercises including development of cost estimation spreadsheets and use of industry computer software. Exercises will be carried out in evaluation of actual project cash flows to analyze project economics and compare project financial criteria. The calculation of net smelter returns will be explained along with the content of typical smelter contracts. Topics taught in the course will be integrated into the level 4 mining project (see MINE 4110). Prerequisites: MINE 3105

Provides an overview of computer applications and orebody modeling techniques commonly used in the mining industry. Topics include: use of CAD methods for mine design, geological databases and resource estimates, block modeling techniques, blast pattern designs, 3D orebody modeling and 3D open-pit and underground mine layout. Current CAD and mine design software is used throughout the course. Emphasis is placed on the theory and concepts behind mine design software, rather than on a specific software platform. Topics covered in this course will be applied in the Mining Project course (see MINE 4110). Prerequisites: MINE 3105

Reviews the mineral exploration industry and discusses common exploration techniques and the interpretation of exploration data. The business of exploration is outlined including the roles of different participants, ethics in exploration, the sources of exploration funding and the regulatory requirements of Canadian stock exchanges and securities commissions. The objectives and strategies employed in mining exploration are described including the design of sampling programs. Common exploration techniques and their applications are discussed including mapping, prospecting, remote sensing, geochemistry, geophysics and diamond drilling. Case studies and an exploration design project form an integral part of the course. Prerequisites: MINE 3101 and MINE 3106

Introduction to prospecting, exploration and geological field techniques in a camp setting in southern British Columbia. The course focuses on developing field skills such as compass use, map reading, prospecting techniques, taking field notes, observations and sketches, sampling techniques (rock, soil, silt), establishing exploration grids, and conducting geochemical and geophysical surveys. Geological field skills include geological mapping and identification of minerals, rocks and alteration around selected mineral deposits. Course includes several half-day exercises and a multi-day exploration mapping project. Prerequisites: MINE 3101 and MINE 3106

A team project that involves preparing and presenting a prefeasibility-style report on a proposed mining project. This report will be centred around an actual mineral deposit/property and will integrate collected field and laboratory data with additional project information provided to the students. Topics to be studied include aspects of: deposit geology, exploration methods, resources and reserve estimates, mine planning and design, mineral processing, site layout, environmental reclamation, and project cost estimates and economics. Each team will complete a well written and technically accurate project report and deliver and oral presentation on the results of their study. Prerequisites: MINE 3105

This course is a continuation of SURV 3340 with the emphasis on the techniques required and problems associated with surveying in the mining environment. Topics covered include the use of GPS and Terrestrial total station systems for Coordinate transformation, Data collection and Layout purposes. The application of trigonometry to solve survey problems specific to mining, including intersections to determine 3D locations of inaccessible objects and the layout of curves and drill holes. Methods for determination of orientation. Prerequisites: SURV 3340