Are you passionate about Earth Sciences? Do you have a fascination with the mining industry? Is this sector one which you would like to pursue a career in? If this is the case, then perhaps a course of study in mining oil and gas operations would be ideal for you.

It is vital that those looking to accept a place upon this particular course of study have a natural aptitude for the sciences, particularly earth sciences. This previous knowledge will provide you with the perfect foundation on which to build your understanding of the subject matter.

Similarly, this particular course requires students to have a strong time management skills as well as being capable of studying in a more practical learning environment. The course will be assessed through the submission of independent and the completion of work-related placements.

There are a number of vacancies available to those with experience and qualifications in this particular field of study. Many graduates find work in commercial geology-based roles such as a petroleum engineer, evaluating all stages of oil and gas mining. The average salary for some-one in this particular role is £29,000 - £36,500 per year in the UK although this may differ depending upon geographical location.

Similarly, many graduates also find work as mining engineers ensuring the safe and environmentally sound development of mines, earning an average of £20,000 - £25,000 per year in the UK.

For those who do not wish to pursue practical-based careers, there is always the option to apply for roles within business. There are many subsidies and grants encouraging companies to implement more sustainable business principles and so companies often seek to employ graduates with a firm grasp on environmental concerns to assist with bid-writing and funding applications for charitable grants and bursaries.

Of course, there is always the option for graduates to work on conservation projects or alternatively to pursue a career in business journalism or even within the legal sector.

The majority of Universities will offer the mining, gas and oil programmes s a 3 year course at undergraduate level, although some establishments will provide candidates with the opportunity to take an extra year’s worth of study. If you’re already thinking that you would like to pursue some post-graduate study, then this may be worth investigating. A post-graduate course will last a minimum of a year and students applying for a place on this course of study will be expected to have a minimum of a 2:1 qualification.

Different Universities will have different requirements when it comes to the academic abilities of their candidates. However, most institutions will require applicants to have studied a minimum of two science based subjects for their A-levels or equivalent examinations and will need to see proof that potential students can demonstrate a basic knowledge of geography and maths.

Similarly, if English is not your first language, you will be expected to sit an IELTS test and achieve a grade of 6.5 or higher in order to demonstrate that you will not struggle with the course.

Your time at University isn’t all about work. Your student years should be some of the best years of your life, so make sure you have some fun; you’ll regret it if you don’t. Pick a University with a location and culture that appeals to your personality. Whether it is the hustle and bustle of London Life, or the slow-paced historical city of Oxford, there are so many fantastic locations to choose from.

It is essential when choosing a University that you look at institutions where your academic grades reach the entry level requirements for the course and that you consider the cost of the fees. Those struggling financially however, may be eligible for a scholarship or bursary to help fund their study. After having a look at your options, you should draw up a spending budget to help you make your decision.

One of the most important things to consider when making the decision as to where you’d like to study is the calibre of the University and the course itself. Although the basic principles of Earth Science remain the same, wherever you study, the specialist subject areas available to you will change depending upon the resources available and the skill-set of the staff. If there is a particular area of study that interests you, then look for universities that offer appealing modules.

It is also worth investigating to see the connections that the department has within larger firms in the jobs market. If you’re very career focussed and you already know what you want to do upon graduation, then you will want to network while studying to increase your employability. Many firms that hire large numbers of Mining Graduates will hire direct from selected Universities with whom they have forged a strong relationship.