Handbook

In this course a potential coal project will be evaluated from the prospective of open cut and underground mining. The course will integrate the technical, economic, and management content presented earlier in the mining engineering program in the design and evaluation of a new mining project while taking account of industry standards, community expectations and government requirements. Technical design, project evaluation and assessment of the socio-political impacts of the project are a core focus of the course. Due to the scope of work involved, the project is undertaken by teams of students. The teams are required to prepare and present a feasibility study of a mining project. Teamwork, project management and presentations skills are assessed in addition to the technical analysis and content of the final feasibility study.

On completion of the course, the student should be capable of demonstrating an understanding of:

• methodologies to evaluate the viability and risks associated with metalliferous mining projects;
• range of software tools to assist in design, scheduling, modelling and evaluation of a metalliferous mining project;
• the theoretical principles and practical methodologies associated with mine planning and feasibility study projects;
• appreciation of the sustainability aspects of mining;
• technical writing and oral communication skills; and
• management of project work by teams.