New: Graduate Certificate in Mineral Resource Geology

Mineral resources play a vital role in many areas, including the energy transition, as we strive to achieve a net-zero emissions economy. Now more than ever, there is a pressing need for a skilled, diverse, and growing workforce to drive the development of the critical mineral sector. This workforce will be crucial in meeting the challenges and demands of a rapidly evolving and sustainable global economy.

As one of the few programs nationally and the only one within Arizona, the Lowell Program in Economic Geology at the Geosciences Department has an exemplary history of university- and professional-level education and research on mineral resource topics.

Designed and led by University of Arizona faculty and industry experts, the Graduate Certificate in Mineral Resource Geology (GC-MRG) will prepare you to start or advance your career in the diverse fields related to the assessment, discovery, production, and allied requirements of minerals.

The experience can be highly tailored to individual needs. Our unique field courses make use of the geologic features of Arizona and bordering states. Just like the Inputs to Integrated Planning series, they were designed in consultation with industry experts, ensuring meaningful and relevant credentials. Combine in-person classes with on-line learning for added flexibility.

The industry is set for growth! With the increasing demand for minerals, opportunities exist globally. In the USA alone, projections indicate the need to expand the geoscience workforce by over 6 percent per year over the next 5 years. In Arizona, the nation's leading producer of copper anticipated growth rate is over 9 percent, for the same time period. 

Holding a BS or equivalent geoscience-related degree and meeting admissions criteria of the Graduate College, 2.75 GPA (minimum).

There is no minimum time. In principle the certificate can be completed in as little as one semester.

Please contact Program Director Marta Codeço at minerals@arizona.edu.

Regular tuition applies for credit-bearing courses. Please use the Tuition Calculator to see a breakdown of tuition and fees by semester for your college/program, academic career level, and residency:

LPEG scholarships are subject to availability. Scholarship funds may be available up to half of the tuition required of Arizona residents, regardless of the applicant's residency. For more information, please contact Program Director Marta Codeço at minerals@arizona.edu

For financial aid, visit the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid.

Yes, courses can be credited towards another Graduate Program in Geosciences and other programs.