The School of Mines

The School of Mines (formerly the Faculty of Earth Sciences) is one of the oldest educational institutions specializing in applied geology in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Its history dates back to 1390 AH (1970 AD), when it was established as the Center of Applied Geology under the auspices of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). At that time, the Center aimed to train Saudi geologists in field geology and mineral exploration, qualifying them to pursue advanced diplomas, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees. Over the years, various academic departments were established to meet the evolving needs of national development. The Department of Hydrogeology was added in 1392 AH (1972 AD), followed by the Technical Training Department in 1393 AH (1973 AD), which was established to train technicians working at the General Directorate of Mineral Resources in various technical fields. In 1394 AH (1974 AD), the Department of Engineering Geology was added. In 1397 AH (1977 AD), the Center was incorporated into King Abdulaziz University under the name Institute of Applied Geology. In 1398 AH (1978 AD), the Institute merged with the Department of Geology at King Abdulaziz University to form the Faculty of Earth Sciences. The Faculty’s academic programs underwent significant development, and it was among the earliest university faculties in the Kingdom to introduce master’s and doctoral programs. Over time, it established a distinguished international reputation. In 1448 AH (2026 AD), as part of its continued development and institutional advancement, a decision was issued approving the new academic structure of the School of Mines and changing the name of the Faculty of Earth Sciences to the School of Mines. This marked the beginning of a new phase aligned with the rapid growth of the mining sector in the Kingdom and international best practices. The new academic structure comprises the Department of Earth Sciences and Geophysics and the Department of Mining Engineering, strengthening integration between Earth Sciences and Mining Engineering. It also reaffirms the School’s commitment to developing national competencies, supporting scientific research, and serving the Kingdom’s mining and mineral resources sectors. The School of Mines distinguishes itself among universities in the Kingdom and the Arab world by offering bachelor’s degrees in Applied Geology across several specialized fields: Mineral Resources, Hydrogeology, Engineering and Environmental Geology, Petroleum Geology and Sedimentology, Geophysics, Structural Geology and Remote Sensing, and Geoexploration Techniques. These distinctive academic programs contribute to preparing qualified professionals capable of responsibly exploring and developing the natural resources bestowed upon this land, in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030 and in support of the Kingdom’s ongoing development and economic growth.