Mining mineral raw materials is the biggest “mass movement” in the world. Every year, more than 30 bn t of rock, earth, ore and energy feedstocks are extracted worldwide. They form the basis of modern life. The raw materials industry offers a wealth of career prospects as a result. Georg Agricola Technical University (THGA) in Bochum/Germany offers the perfect stepping stone towards them thanks to its new Master’s programme in “Mineral Resource and Process Engineering”, the only one of its kind in Germany. The hands-on degree focussing on extracting and processing resources starts in the 2017/18 winter semester and can be completed as a full-time programme or as a part-time degree alongside a job (Figure 1).
What is special about the programme is its combination of subjects and unusual flexibility, according to course leader Prof. Ludger Rattmann: “It is a programme with unlimited possibilities. Students can freely choose to focus on either “Mineral Resource Engineering” or “Process Engineering”. There is a pool of courses from which they can independently make up their own personal programme of studies.” In addition to classic lecture courses, it also includes many different practical elements, simulation exercises, e-learning and small independent projects. This prepares the prospective engineers for developing strategies and techniques on a large scale – “always keeping in mind that natural resources must be handled sustainably,” adds Prof. Rattmann.
The Master’s programme includes research-oriented practical training at a company or organisation in the raw materials sector – including preparation, recycling, energy efficiency, health and safety and environmental protection. Besides engineering content, the programme also teaches management skills, preparing candidates for leadership jobs. As there is huge demand both nationally and internationally, the tuition at THGA is in English and German. The “Mineral Resource Engineering” branch of study can also be completed entirely in English.
Overview of the Master’s programme in “Mineral Resource and Process Engineering”:
- starts in 2017/18 winter semester;
- length of the programme: four semesters (full-time)/six semesters (part-time);
- degree awarded: Master of Science (M.Sc.).
Entrance requirements:
- first higher education degree qualifying for entry to a profession (Bachelor’s degree or diploma) in raw material extraction, process engineering or a comparable discipline;
- adequate knowledge of English and German.
For further information and to apply, visit: www.thga.de/mrpe (THGA/Si.)
