Introduction

Most mining project investments are comprised of three factors:

1. the investment is partially or completely irreversible with significant exit costs
2. there is uncertainty over the future returns from the investment
3. the investor has some latitude relating to the timing of the investment

These three factors interact to determine the optimal decisions in mining project investments.

There are of a lot of unknown variables at the outset of a mining project. When the mining project is in operation, there is no crystal ball to tell exactly when the mining project will reach its maximum value. Consequently, in any mining project evaluation, there are no clear answers for the questions below.

• How much will the minimum initial capital cost be?
• How much will the maximum mine value be?
• How long will the optimum mine life be?

This course shows you how to arrive at these essential decisions, by addressing the unknown variables with the best assumptions that can be made based on the information that is available. 

Course Structure

Introductory Mining Project Evaluation consists of 11 learning sessions with supporting figures, tables, examples, case studies and interactive course reviews.

The concepts that are addressed in this course may not be easy to grasp at first and may require multiple revisions before a clear understanding is gained. Course participants are expected to thoroughly work through each example provided within the course by hand (the aid of Microsoft Excel is encouraged). This may be time-consuming; however, it is integral and will ultimately allow a successful completion of the course reviews. Total course duration is equivalent to approximately 15 hours of viewing and exercise content. 

Learning Outcomes

1. Identify the basic principles and practical methodologies of mine project evaluation.
2. Apply these principles and methods to derivation of the project variables required for essential decision making.

Duration: 15 Hours

Discipline: Financial

Level: Introductory