The Bachelor of Engineering (Mining)(Honours) is a four-year, full-time undergraduate degree that prepares students for professional careers in one of Australia's most economically significant industries. The course covers the safe, economic and environmentally responsible recovery, processing, marketing and financial management of mineral resources. Students gain a solid background in mathematics, natural sciences and computing before progressing into specialised mining disciplines including geomechanics, ventilation, mine planning, mineral processing, underground and open-pit mining methods, resource estimation, rock mechanics, explosives and blast engineering, mine design, and environmental management. The Honours component typically culminates in a substantial research or capstone project completed over two semesters.

The degree is designed for students who are passionate about engineering, geology, technology and problem-solving in complex, high-stakes environments. It suits those interested in working at scale — from planning multi-billion-dollar mine developments to managing the daily operations of producing mines across Australia and globally. Graduates are equipped with technical and leadership skills that allow them to work in mine design, mine production, project management, safety, environmental compliance and consulting. The degree is accredited by Engineers Australia and graduates are also eligible for membership of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM), providing internationally recognised professional credentials.

Major employers of graduates include large diversified mining companies such as BHP, Rio Tinto, Fortescue, Glencore, Newmont and South32, as well as mid-tier and junior mining companies, mining consulting and engineering services firms (such as SRK, AMC Consultants, and Entech), government mining regulators, and equipment and technology providers. The resource sectors most commonly entered include iron ore, gold, coal, copper, lithium, rare earths, nickel and zinc — commodities that are central to Australia's export economy and the global transition to clean energy.

For domestic students, entry into a Bachelor of Engineering (Mining)(Honours) typically requires completion of Year 12 (or equivalent) with an ATAR generally ranging from around 70 to 85 depending on the institution, along with prerequisite subjects in mathematics — usually Mathematical Methods or Specialist Mathematics at Units 3 and 4 level. Most universities also require or strongly recommend a science subject such as Physics or Chemistry. Some institutions allow students to defer their specialisation choice until the end of first year, making it possible to enter via a general engineering pathway. Alternative entry pathways are often available for students who do not meet direct entry requirements, including foundation programs, diploma of engineering qualifications, and TAFE articulation arrangements. Credit transfer and advanced standing may also be granted for prior relevant study.

International students are required to demonstrate English language proficiency, typically through standardised tests such as IELTS (with a common minimum requirement of an overall band of 6.5, with no individual band below 6.0), TOEFL, or PTE Academic. Some institutions offer preparatory English programs for students who need to improve their language skills before commencing the degree. International students must also meet any relevant visa requirements for studying in Australia.

All accredited programs are approved by Engineers Australia, and graduates are eligible to apply for membership of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM). Many programs also require students to complete a minimum of 60 days of approved industry or professional engineering practice — often through paid co-operative placements or structured industry training — as a compulsory component of graduation. Students without the required mathematics prerequisites may be required to complete bridging mathematics units in their first year of study.