Introduction to Mining

Build a practical understanding of the mining life cycle, from geology and exploration through financing, feasibility, mining, and environmental management. Gain the essential knowledge, terminology, and context you need to confidently navigate the mining sector, whether you are new to the industry or working in a non-technical role.

  • Level

    Introductory

  • Duration

    15 hours

  • Languages

    English

  • Certificate of Completion

    Available

    About this Course  


    Understanding how mining projects develop is essential for effective mining policy and decision-making. This course provides a practical introduction to the mining lifecycle, from the geological foundations of mineral deposits through exploration, feasibility, mining and mineral processing, while introducing key social and environmental considerations. It builds familiarity with the key concepts and terminology needed to understand how the industry operates and engage in mining-related policy and decision-making. 

    Who This Course is For 


    This course is designed for policymakers and government officials who work on, or engage with, the mining sector but do not have a technical background in mineral exploration or mining. Build the foundational knowledge you need to understand how the industry works, engage confidently with technical information, and contribute effectively to mining-related policy and decision-making. 

    What You Will Learn 


    • Learning Outcomes 

      After completing this course, the participants will be able to: 

      1. Describe the major stages of the mineral exploration and mining lifecycle.
      2. Explain foundational concepts related to geology and mineral deposits and their relationship to exploration and mining.
      3. Describe how mineral deposits are explored and evaluated through exploration, drilling, resource estimation, and feasibility studies.
      4. Distinguish between the major approaches to mining and describe the purpose of mineral processing.
      5. Identify key social and environmental considerations across the mineral exploration and mining sector.

    •  Completion Requirements

    • Complete all lessons
    • Pass all quizzes
    • Submit the course feedback survey

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Who is this course designed for?

    This course is designed for policymakers and government officials who work on or engage with the mining sector and want to build a foundational understanding of mineral exploration and mining without needing a technical background. 

    Is there any prerequisite knowledge required?

    No formal prerequisites are required. The course is accessible to anyone interested in the mining sector, and no technical background or prior knowledge of mining is required. 

    Is the course self-paced?

    Yes, all lessons are fully self-paced so you can progress according to your schedule. 

    How long does the course take to complete?

    The entire course takes approximately 15 hours to complete. 

    Will I receive a certificate upon completion? 

    Yes, a certificate of completion will be automatically generated once you have completed all the course requirements. 

    Is there any cost to take this course?

    No, the course is offered free of charge. 

    Course Expert

    Rob Stevens is a Senior Associate with the IGF, supporting governments to strengthen technical capacity and legal and policy frameworks for mine closure and the post-mining transition. 

    He is a professional geologist with a Ph.D in Geology, experienced trainer and policy advisor, and the author of Mineral Exploration and Mining Essentials. 
    Read more at IGF website
    Patrick Jones - Course author

    Rob Stevens, Senior Associate, IGF