Mining courses
You can start on a mine site with a certificate, or train as a mining engineer with a degree. Here's what each course leads to, how long it takes and what it costs.
- Quickest way to start
- 1 year
- Certificate III, typical full time length
- What the jobs pay
- $151,200 to $182,900
- median pay across 2 jobs
- Demand
- 2 of 2 jobs
- are on the national shortage list
Which course do you need?
It depends on the job you want.
Certificate III in Surface Extraction Operations
Work as a driller on a mine site
Operate drilling rigs to bore holes for blasting, exploration and ground support, and keep the site safe while you do it.
JobDriller
Median pay$151,200
- How long it takes
- Typically 1 to 2 years
- How you'll study
- On the job
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Mining)
Become a mining engineer
Plan and design mines, work out how ore is extracted safely, and solve problems with ground conditions as the work goes on.
Median pay$182,900
- How long it takes
- 4 years full time
- How you'll study
- On campus
Other certificates and diplomas
- Certificate II in Resources and Infrastructure Work Preparation6 to 12 months. For people with no site experience, covering the safety and basic skills that prepare you for a sector-specific Certificate III.
Can help with: mining labourer
- Certificate II in Surface Extraction Operations6 to 12 months. Entry-level training for operator work in an open cut mine or quarry, following set routines and procedures.
Can help with: miner, mining labourer
- Certificate III in Resource Processing1 to 2 years. For work as a production operator in a mineral processing or coal preparation plant, running and monitoring equipment.
Jobs you can do with this study
Pay is the median for everyone in the job, not a starting salary.
- Mining EngineerWhat you needBachelor degree (Honours)Median pay$182,900In demand
- DrillerWhat you needCertificate IIIMedian pay$151,200In demand
“In demand” means the job is on the national skills shortage list. Check the course and provider are approved for the work you want, as rules differ by state.
Still not sure which one fits you?
Answer a few quick questions about your time, state and budget, and we'll show the courses that suit you.