Long-Term Prospects

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Job Satisfaction

General quality of life statement

Let's get this out of the way right up front: mining and mineral engineering is one of the highest-paid majors out there. In today's world, that's pretty attractive. The median salary is higher than a lot of the high-end salaries, especially for humanities. The point is, you're going to have cash. You might even make it rain, though you'll be below ground at the time.

While there weren't job satisfaction figures for the whole major, mining engineers rated themselves "extremely satisfied" with their jobs on PayScale (source). So either they're in the midst of an epic troll job, or this is a pretty sweet gig.

So those of you who already wanted to do this, here's your evidence that you're good at making decisions. Pat yourself on the back. Now stop, especially if you're reading this in a public place. Weirdo.

Everyone else, have you thought about mining? Really thought about it?

This is the kind of major that trains you for a specific field, has ridiculously low unemployment, and obscenely high pay. Considering how happy those mine engineers are, it wouldn't surprise us if they see underground by the light of their massive smiles. So if this appeals to you at all, give it some thought. It sounds like you won't be sorry.

25th Percentile Salary

Median Salary

75th Percentile Salary

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