Over 14,000 mines distributed throughout the U.S. supply the majority of these mined products.

The Penn State Mining Engineering program prepares students for a career in the industrial minerals, metals, and energy industries that sustain the domestic and global economies. Importantly, the program provides an emphasis on sustainable mining through integration of environmental health and safety, and societal responsibility principles in the design and operation of mineral enterprises.

Graduates of the program will be prepared to work domestically or internationally to develop and operate mines; or to work in supporting activities including engineering consulting, banking, equipment development and supply, regulatory enforcement, and research. This is accomplished primarily through the curriculum, but is enhanced by an internship program, which allows qualified students to obtain practical experience through structured employment opportunities in the private and public sectors.