Underground Mining Operations (not accepting applications)

Combine hands-on and classroom training to gain the skills to operate heavy equipment in underground mining operations.

The unique “two-week in/two-week out” program structure will expose you to what a work cycle at an operating mine actually feels like.

Program description

This Underground Mining Operations program offers students an opportunity to prepare for entry-level employment as underground miners through a combination of theory and practical experience.

Students will spend approximately 280 hours in an intensive, hands-on training program at the University of Alaska at the Delta Mine Training Centre, a world-class training and research facility located in Delta Junction, Alaska. The program is structured as a unique 'two-week in/two-week out' program that will expose students to what a work cycle at an operating mine actually feels like.

In order to participate in the program all students must pass a mandatory drug and alcohol test and possess a valid Class five driver’s license, as well as a passport or a status card.

At the end of this program, students will:

  • Have mastered the fundamentals of the Core Competencies required for an entry-level miner.
  • Know the basic safety procedures in an underground setting and know the reasons these procedures are required.

Course delivery

This program has approximately 280 hours of training delivered mostly through hands-on training in Delta Junction, Alaska. Students will attend two, two-week sessions in Delta Junction, Alaska separated by one two-week break. This 'two-week in/two-week out' structure will expose students to what a work cycle at an operating mine actually feels like.

Tuition $4,400 + $220 (GST) + $100 Technology Fee = $4,720.00. This includes: training in Whitehorse and Delta Junction, Whitehorse to Delta Junction return transportation, as well as lodging and meals in Delta Junction, Alaska. 

Admission requirements
  • age 18+
  • alcohol and drug free (Must pass an alcohol and drug test prior to acceptance into program)
  • Standard First Aid / CPR-C
  • Yukon class five driver’s license with a clean drivers abstract is preferred
  • good health and physically fit
  • ability to lift up to 50 lbs
  • ability to work in a fly-in/fly-out work environment and a two-week in/two-week out rotational work cycle
  • good vision and hearing
  • passport or status card
  • references (work or personal)
Other requirements

Successful candidates must pass an industry-led job readiness and aptitude interview to determine if they:

  • have a desire to work in the mining industry for the long term
  • take direction well
  • are willing to work 12 hour days in extreme environments
  • are willing to work in an underground environment
  • are safety conscious
Graduation requirements

In order to graduate, students must successfully complete all courses in the program.

Graduates of the program will receive a Yukon University certificate and a University of Alaska certificate.

Money matters

Fees

Course Fee: Tuition $4,400.00 + Technology fee $100.00 + $220.00 GST (only charged on tuition) = $4,720.00 . This includes training in Whitehorse and Delta Junction, Whitehorse to Delta Junction return transportation, as well as lodging and meals in Delta Junction, Alaska.  

Additional costs:

  • If there is a need for students to be in Whitehorse, students will be responsible for covering their food and accommodation costs.
  • Students will be responsible for transportation to and from Whitehorse.
  • Transportation to and from the Delta Mine Training Centre in Delta Junction, Alaska will be provided.
  • Students need to provide steel-toed boots, a jacket that is warm to -50 and a face mask to protect against cold weather. Specific packing lists will be provided to students accepted to the program.
  • Students must be eligible to cross the border to Alaska in order to complete the practical training at the Delta Junction Facility.

Student financial awards

Education is an investment in your future, your family and your community. Yukon University is pleased to support that investment by offering some of the most competitive tuition rates in the country, as well as several student financial awards to help offset your educational and living costs.


Financial assistance

There are government programs, scholarships, bursaries, awards and First Nation funding available to financially support you throughout your academic career.

See money matters for more information, or talk to our financial advising staff in the Student Services Centre. Email or call 867 668 5209 to make an appointment.