Repository: UIHistories Project: Board of Trustees Minutes - 1890 [PAGE 202]

EXTRACTED TEXT FROM PAGE:

INSTRUCTION. INSTRUCTION.

205

It is important that a broad basis be laid by way of general preparation for the more technical studies here included. Whatever of general culture the student may obtain before entering the University will not come amiss, and, although the requirement is not made, it is advised that all who can do so should acquire a reading knowledge of French or German before beginning this course. The course comprises the greater part of the pure and applied mathematics of the course in mechanical and civil engineering. Much time is devoted to chemistry and geology, with the addition of metallurgy and other technical studies peculiar to mining engineering. Students who are graduated from this school are not supposed to be familiar with all the details of mine management from actual experience, but they will have obtained such a knowledge of the principles underlying all successful practice, and such familiarity with the science of mining in all its branches, that the art may be acquired with the minimum of practice. Lectures are given when desirable, but these are to be regarded as supplementary to other modes of instruction which are made to conform as closely as possible to the routine of the engineer in practice. In every detail the student is made to feel that he is dealing with the actual problems which he will meet in his professional work. Plans, estimates, drawings, reports, and calculations, based upon data obtained in the student's own experience, are constantly required, and no pains is spared to familiarize each member of the class with the duties and responsibilities of every grade, from miner to manager.

COURSE OF STUDIES.

In the first two years the work is similar to that required in the course of civil engineering, but more time is given to chemistry. In the third year geology and mining engineering, with assaying and metallurgy, take the place of special technical studies in the other engineering courses. In the fourth year, with the exception of two terms of prime movers taken with the students in mechanical engineering and some studies of general character, the work is strictly technical.

SPECIAL STUDIES.

Mine Surveying and Beconnoitering.—History, uses and adjustments of instruments ; solar compass and various solar attachments; practical problems involving the running of surface lines and lines under ground; connecting of surface and underground surveys: practice of TJ. S. deputy surveyors. Details of mine surveys, setting of bench marks: lines through shafts, drifts, stopes, etc.; keeping of records, plans, etc. Surveys required to determine best locations for test borings, shafts, adits, etc.; methods of reconnoitering.