The Colorado School of Mines is a specialized baccalaureate and graduate research institution with high admission standards, and with a unique mission in energy, mineral and materials science and engineering and associated engineering and science fields. Mines interprets this mission through its dedication to educating students and professionals in the applied sciences, engineering, and associated fields related to:

" the discovery and recovery of the Earth's resources,
" their conversion to materials and energy,
" their utilization in advanced processes and products, and
" the economic and social systems necessary to ensure their prudent and provident use in a sustainable global society.

We advance these emphases with the conviction that future infrastructural and societal developments -- indeed civilization itself -- are dependent upon the availability of energy, the sustainable development of the Earth's resources, the synthesis of materials, and the environmental consequences of these processes and their interaction. At Mines, we believe that these inherently related focus areas represent not only extraordinarily fertile ground for the strategic development of the institution in education and research, but also embrace our responsibility to attract, shape and provide engineering and scientific talent to help address the technological and societal challenges they imply.

Mines sees great potential in the fusion of info-, nano-, bio-, and geo-sciences to inform the interconnected problems inherent in the energy-Earth-materials-environment complex; it imagines new technologies, designs and approaches that will emerge from cross-disciplinary and interdisciplinary activity; and it envisions a playing field for engineers and scientists that extends from molecular design to large systems integration. At Mines, we believe that engineering education, seen through the lens of its focus areas, can significantly contribute to addressing the technological, societal, global and professional contexts of engineering practice. Further, it is our belief that the importance and relevance of its programs will continue to attract students, regionally, nationally and internationally in increasing numbers.

More than 800 graduate and 3200 undergraduate students from the US and abroad create a stimulating environment that enriches the Mines educational experience. Modern research facilities including 26 specialized centers, a strong interdisciplinary teaching and research focus and a low student-to-faculty ratio offer a personalized education and encourage students to investigate problems from real-world perspectives. Mines' reputation and high admission standards, as well as its alumni network in industry, government and academic institutions contribute to a high graduate placement rate.

No matter if students choose to live on or off campus, they enjoy the small-town feeling of Golden's safe, quiet setting. Founded during the gold rush of 1859, the city of 17,000 retains its western flavor and friendly, laid-back attitude. Trails, mountains, streams and open space are all within walking distance from campus. Denver, 15 miles to the east, is a city of many cultures and colors. The metropolitan area's 2.4 million population celebrates its diversity year round with a number of ethnic events, celebrations and festivals. With all the recreational possibilities -- and 300 days of sunshine each year, which is more than San Diego or Miami Beach -- it's no wonder that students enjoy the outdoors year-round.