Build a Sustainable Future in Mining

Advance your career – and the industry – by gaining specialized skills in mine closure, long-term planning, and risk reduction.

For eligible BC residents

$100M+ Closure Costs Avoided

$ 0 M+

Mining Professionals Trained

0 +

Mine Closure Isn't the End - It's One of the Biggest Financial and Social Liabilities in Mining

Mine closure is no longer a future problem – it’s a present-day risk that’s already transforming balance sheets. Since 2015, closure provisions have more than doubled, and by 2036, they’re projected to exceed total debt for some of the world’s largest mining companies..

The stakes aren’t just financial. Inadequate closure planning can erode public trust, leave lasting environmental damage, and devastate the communities that surround a mine site.
The decisions made at the start of a mine’s life cycle – and throughout its operation – have lasting consequences. That’s why mine closure can’t be an afterthought.

Flexible, Career-Building Learning

The Leadership in Sustainable Mine Closure microcertificate is made up of three in-depth online courses developed in partnership with Rio Tinto, UBC BRIMM, Curtin University, and EY. Each course is designed for working professionals seeking to lead responsibly through the closure phase of the mining lifecycle and improve long-term environmental, social, and financial outcomes.

100% Online

Flexibility

Live expert-led sessions with flexible scheduling that fits your professional commitments.

Global Experts

Approach

Developed with input from global mining leaders and industry practitioners.

Immediate

Application

Apply what you learn directly in your current role for immediate impact.

UBC-Recognized

Credentials

Earn university-backed micro-certificates that enhance your professional profile.

Whether you take one course or pursue the full certificate, each module is packed with practical tools, real-world case studies, and cross-disciplinary insights to help you lead more effectively through the closure phase.

Designed for Mid- to Senior-Level Professionals Across the Mining Lifecycle

This program is ideal for:

Environmental and closure specialists
Mine managers and engineers
HR and training leads in mining organizations
Indigenous and community engagement professionals
Regulators, consultants, and policy advisors

Overlooking closure can cost millions. If you’re involved in planning, operations, or decommissioning, this training will equip you to manage risk, protect your organization’s bottom line, and maximize your strategic impact.

What You'll Gain From This Program

Advance your career, strengthen your organization, and help lead the mining industry into a more
sustainable future.

BC Resident? You May Qualify for $3,500 Toward Your Training

Learn more about the StrongerBC Future Skills Grant and how to apply for funding assistance.

Explore the Mine Closure Curriculum

The Leadership in Sustainable Mine Closure microcertificate is made up of three in-depth online courses developed in partnership with Rio Tinto, UBC BRIMM, Curtin University, and EY.Each course is designed for working professionals seeking to lead responsibly through the closure phase of the mining lifecycle and improve long-term environmental, social, and financial outcomes.

3 Courses = 1 Microcertificate
40+ hours per course, delivered over 6 - 8 weeks
100% Online: Live sessions + self-paced modules
Earn a UBC-branded microcertificate
Courses may be taken individually or stacked

Mine closure is evolving beyond technical remediation. This course explores emerging frameworks, regulatory shifts, and the social dimensions of closure – including how to support a just transition for affected communities.

Rather than simply “reclaiming” land, this course explores how mine sites can be transitioned into assets – creating value through biodiversity, renewable energy, water reuse, and community benefit.

Develop an environmental strategy for closure by understanding how landforms, water, biodiversity, and compliance frameworks interact across an asset’s lifecycle.

Powered by BRIMM at the University of British Columbia

The Bradshaw Research Institute for Minerals and Mining (BRIMM) at UBC exists to transform the mining sector – for the benefit of the economy, society, and the environment.

We break through traditional research silos to connect UBC’s world-leading experts in mining engineering, microbiology, geology, business, policy, and data science. This cross-disciplinary approach allows us to create better, faster, cleaner, and more cost-effective solutions to the most pressing challenges in mining – including mine closure.

By bridging industry and academia, BRIMM empowers professionals and organizations with the knowledge, tools, and research-driven insight needed to lead mining into a more sustainable future.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take just one course, or do I need to complete all three?

You can take any course individually for professional development. If you complete all three, you’ll earn the Microcertificate in Leadership in Sustainable Mine Closure from UBC BRIMM.

How many courses are required for the microcertificate?

To earn the microcertificate, you must complete all three courses:

BRIMM 111: New Perspectives on Mine Closure
BRIMM 112: Transition to Positive Legacy
Environment, Land, Water Management and Closure Planning Over the Life of an Asset

Are the courses fully online?

Yes. All courses are delivered 100% online with a mix of self-paced modules and live sessions featuring expert instructors and guest speakers.

How long does each course take to complete?

Each course spans 6–8 weeks and includes approximately 40+ hours of learning. The microcertificate is designed to be completed flexibly, with most learners finishing all three courses within a few months.

Can I take these courses while working full-time?

Absolutely. The program is built for busy professionals. You’ll have access to self-paced content and scheduled live sessions with flexible timing.

What kind of credential will I receive?

Upon successful completion of all three courses, you’ll receive a UBC-branded Microcertificate in Leadership in Sustainable Mine Closure.

Do I need a background in mining to benefit from this program?

No prior mining experience is required. While many participants work in or around the mining sector, the courses are accessible and relevant to professionals from a range of disciplines, including policy, environmental science, engineering, and community engagement.

Who is eligible for the Future Skills Grant?

Most BC residents over the age of 19 who have not already accessed the grant may qualify. Learn more about the Future Skills Grant.

Take the Lead in Responsible Mine Closure

Want to future-proof your career, reduce long-term risk for your organization, and gain the knowledge to lead closure with confidence? These courses are built for professionals like you – working in planning, operations, or decommissioning – who want to drive better outcomes for people, the environment, and the bottom line.

Earn a UBC microcertificate. Build future-ready skills. Help define what successful closure looks like.