Mine Reclamation Management

A river bend with fall trees in the foreground.

Part of: Master in Environmental Management

Offered as: Certificate

Part of: Master in Environmental Management

Offered as: Certificate

The 14-credit Mine Reclamation Management Certificate prepares professionals to restore and responsibly manage lands impacted by mining. Students explore the science, policy, and practical strategies behind effective mine reclamation, with opportunities for field-based learning at sites across the American West.

Drawing on expertise from industry, regulators, and environmental scientists, the program equips graduates with the interdisciplinary knowledge needed to support ecological recovery and responsible land stewardship. The certificate can be completed as part of the Master of Environmental Management (MEM) or pursued as a standalone graduate certificate.

The West Elk Range at sunrise with wildflowers in the foreground.

Mining plays a critical role in modern society, yet it also leaves lasting impacts on landscapes and communities. The Mine Reclamation Management Certificate prepares professionals to restore and responsibly manage lands affected by mining.

Students learn the science, policy, and practice of mine reclamation, including soil reconstruction, water management, revegetation, regulatory frameworks, and long-term site stewardship. Coursework integrates perspectives from industry, regulators, and environmental scientists.

The certificate draws on Western’s partnerships across the mining and reclamation sectors and includes opportunities for field-based learning at reclamation sites across the American West.

This program is well-suited for professionals working in:

Mining and mineral industries
Environmental consulting
Land reclamation and restoration
State and federal regulatory agencies

Graduates gain the interdisciplinary knowledge required to design and implement effective reclamation strategies that support both ecological recovery and regulatory complia

Admissions, Cost & Requirements

Applications will be holistically reviewed by certificate faculty to ensure appropriate placement and student success based on past achievement and potential. Entry into the program will mirror the Master of Environmental Management admissions process, with both fall and spring semester entry possible. A baccalaureate degree in environmental science, natural resource management, or a related field from an accredited college or university, with a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or appropriate work experience and background required.

Submit:

• Official undergraduate or graduate transcript
• A resume or CV
• One-page professional intentions statement outlining student goals and experiences

Apply Now
Program Information

Period	Credits	Tuition per Credit	Fees per Credit Hour*	Flat Fees**	Total Tuition & Fees
Year 1: Fall	7	$847	$73.40	$50	$6,492.80
Year 1 Spring	7	$847	$73.40		$6,442.80
					$12,935.60

*Mandatory graduate student fees per credit hour
Graduate Studies Administrative Operations Fee: $63.00
Library Fee: $6.50
IT Services Fee: $3.90

**Mandatory graduate student flat fees
New Student Matriculation Fee: $50.00

A certificate is a shorter program focusing on a specific field of expertise rather than an entire course of study. It does not result in a degree, but it can be completed alongside your major or as a stand-alone credential. Certificates are a great way to enhance your knowledge, strengthen your resume, and gain practical experience in a particular field.

Program Requirements

Mine Land Restoration Planning
Soil Reconstruction and Stabilization
Natural Resource Management
Ecosystem Restoration
Policy and Regulatory Compliance
Site Monitoring and Stewardship

Mine Reclamation Specialist
Environmental Consultant
Land Restoration Manager
Mining Environmental Coordinator
Reclamation Project Manager
Natural Resource Manager

Fellowships, Scholarships & Financial Aid

Fellowships

Western’s MEM program offers graduate fellowships that reduce tuition, strengthen partnerships, and enhance career prospects for selected students. Fellowships are awarded based on the quality and number of applicants each year.

Learn More

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Graduate students at Western receive financial support from a variety of sources, including personal savings, loans, scholarships, fellowships and graduate assistantships. Learn more ways to offset these costs through financial aid opportunities.

Learn More

We are so excited about your interest in applying to the Mine Reclamation Management Certificate! Please take a moment to review the requirements and deadlines before accessing the application.

Apply Now Contact Us

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