This course designed to provide an understanding of both the theoretical principles and practical methodologies associated with mine planning & feasibility project. The principles cover open pit and underground mine planning for coal and non-coal mining systems.

Topics covered in the course include:

Computer-aided mine design
Mining method selection (geotechnical aspects, etc.).
Mine life/capacities
Production scheduling
Principles of Project Management
Mine optimisation
Regulatory environment.
Site closure/environmental design.
Equipment/fleet selection.
Benchmarking.
Capital and operating cost estimation.

On completion of this course, successful students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of principles and methodologies of mine planning. Specifically, students will be able to:
Compile technical, economic & other data required for mine planning
Select a suitable mining method & equipment for a given orebody/ coal seam
Perform pit and stope optimisation given a block model
Plan and schedule mine development and production
Estimate capital/operating costs and productivity
Use specialised mining software and spreadsheets for mine planning
Present and communicate mine plans in a professional manner