Course description

Focus on the basic geological and chemical science behind mining and explore the social and environmental consequences of mining jewels, rare earth, and fossil fuels. Learn about the chemicals and elements needed to make a range of products, from diamond rings to cellphones. Learn about geological/mining systems, as well as the legal, cultural, professional, and ethical implications of mining.

Course details

Hours: 42
Credits: 3
Prerequisites: None
Corequisites: None

Credit transfer

Have you taken this course or an equivalent course? Contact the Credit Transfer Office.

Registration dates

Not all courses are offered each term.

Spring 2026 registration opens March 2, 2026.
Fall 2026 registration opens June 29, 2026.

Delivery options

In person: classes held in person on a campus/site in a classroom/lab/shop/studio for the course duration

Online - Asynchronous: ​100% online delivery, no scheduled day or time course requirements with the instructor, assigned due dates

Online - Synchronous: 100% online delivery, scheduled day and time course requirements with the instructor, assigned due dates

Hybrid: any combination of in person, timetabled, on campus, online, and hyflex delivery