Upholding a proud history

Mackay has earned its reputation for excellence by providing the mining, engineering and minerals industries with highly-trained graduates and top-notch research since 1888.

Find your place in Mackay
Mackay's first female graduates

While offering programs in geology, geography, geophysics, geological engineering, hydrogeology and mining engineering (with options in underground and quarry mining), Mackay has expanded its scope to include research and degree programs in other critical earth science disciplines including seismology, environmental engineering and hydrology. At Mackay, our goal is to provide a student-focused and student-friendly atmosphere with small class sizes, a low student to faculty ratio, and summer job and internship opportunities. Expand your opportunities by graduating with a set of skills that are in high demand in Nevada and around the world.

Mackay trains in high-paying professions where jobs are in high demand

Mackay has over $440,000 to award in scholarships each year; one of the largest undergraduate scholarship programs at the University

Mackay students regularly network with industry professionals

ABET Accreditations

Our undergraduate programs in mining and geological engineering are ABET accredited.

A school. A culture. A family.

The Mackay School brings together a family of students, faculty and alumni from all walks of life with one common characteristic: perseverance. Founded by Irish immigrant John Mackay, his rags-to-riches American frontier tale of success has shaped the spirit of the Mackay School.

Portrait of a student wearing a Mackay shirt standing above a lake overlook holding a clip board.

Explore the earth sciences

Mackay students grouped together taking a selfie at graduation

Supporting student success

Microbeam lab research imagery

Microbeam Laboratory