Five starsTrusted by 70,000+ Future Students

Subject guide

Petroleum Engineering

If you're inspired by the world-changing potential of energy production and have an affinity for math and science, consider expanding your educational journey to include petroleum engineering. This pivotal field of study in higher education equips students with the skills to explore, extract, and produce oil and gas. As an aspiring petroleum engineer, your specialized knowledge could play a key role in meeting the world's energy demands. Our goal is to help you find the right educational program that aligns with your personal and professional aspirations, propelling you toward an influential career in this vital industry.

Find school options
Petroleum Engineering study and career guide

Petroleum Engineering

If you're considering advancing your education and cultivating your skills, petroleum engineering could be an excellent choice especially if you have a keen interest in studying the technology and practices related to oil, gas, and petroleum exploration. As a petroleum engineer, you will be at the forefront of designing and implementing methods to extract petroleum resources from the earth in the most efficient and safest way possible. It's an exciting and lucrative field that offers a world of possibilities. Our role is to support and empower you as you embark on your educational journey, offering reliable and accurate information that can help guide your decision-making process. We believe that the right education can not only open doors but also create new ones, and we're committed to ensuring that you have all you need to make the best choice for your future career.

Explore this subject within Science & Engineering.

Petroleum Engineering Program goals

As you embark on your journey in studying Petroleum Engineering, it's vital to identify your goals. This intensive program is designed to arm you with the specialized knowledge and hands-on experience needed to excel in the petroleum industry. It's more than just learning about oil and gas exploration, production, and refining; it's about solving complex problems, developing new technology, and leading the way in sustainable practices. To best navigate this exciting field, here are some focused goals you might consider:

  • Mastering the fundamentals of Petroleum Engineering including drilling, production, and reserves estimation
  • Acquiring practical skills and knowledge through internships and laboratory work
  • Becoming proficient in using state-of-the-art technology and software used in the industry
  • Developing problem-solving and critical thinking abilities for efficient and innovative solutions
  • Understanding the environmental impacts and advocating for sustainable methods in oil and gas operations
  • Broadening global perspective through the study of international oil and gas laws and trade policies

By defining these goals early on, you'll be strategically positioned to make the most out of your Petroleum Engineering program and robustly stride toward a rewarding career.

Petroleum Engineering Program goals illustration

What are the Student Learning Outcomes

Studying a program in Petroleum Engineering not only equips you with specialized knowledge in the exploration and production of oil and gas, but also fosters critical thinking and decision-making skills essential for this complex industry. This dynamic field is rapidly progressing and needs innovative thinkers proficient in advanced technology, project management, and environmental protocols. The program aims to prepare you sufficiently for a demanding yet rewarding career in petroleum engineering.

  • Acquiring comprehensive knowledge in earth science, drilling, production, and reservoir engineering.
  • Developing strong analytical skills to solve complex geological and mathematical problems.
  • Mastering the use of modern technology and software applicable in petroleum engineering.
  • Gaining the ability to design, implement and manage oil and gas extraction and processing operations.
  • Nurturing a deep understanding and respect for environmental regulations and safety practices within the petroleum industry.
  • Developing effective communication skills for seamless collaboration with multidisciplinary teams.
What are the Student Learning Outcomes illustration
Photo by This is Engeneering on Unsplash

What experience do I need to be able to apply for Petroleum Engineering

Venturing into the field of Petroleum Engineering requires a solid foundation in mathematics, sciences, and some industry-specific experiences. Before starting a higher-education program in Petroleum Engineering, you'll need to have a strong understanding of math and science concepts, particularly chemistry and physics, as these are integral to many aspects of the field. In addition, gaining some practical experience, such as internships or cooperative education programs in the field, can provide you with a deeper insight into the industry. This on-the-job experience can greatly enhance your understanding and skills that can be instrumental in your studies and later career.

  • Strong background in Mathematics and Sciences, especially in Chemistry and Physics
  • Prior coursework or understanding in Geology
  • Hands-on experience in industry-related programs, such as internships or cooperative education opportunities
  • Exposure to petroleum industry environments and technologies through job shadowing or entry-level roles

It's important to note that each Petroleum Engineering program may require slightly different experiences, but these general pre-requisites will give you a strong foundation for your studies. Always be sure to check the specific program requirements before applying. Don't be discouraged if you don't yet meet all these experiences. Remember, every journey begins with a single step. If you're passionate about Petroleum Engineering, persevere, and your dedication will lead you to your desired career path.

What experience do I need to be able to apply for Petroleum Engineering illustration

Petroleum Engineering careers

As a postgraduate in Petroleum Engineering, you will find yourself highly sought after in industries like energy, manufacturing, and construction, where specialized skills in oil and gas extraction are crucial. Your expertise could take you into roles such as Drilling Engineer, Production Engineer, or Reservoir Engineer. In these professions, you would design and implement methods to extract oil and gas from beneath the Earth's surface, enhancing production while equally ensuring cost-effectiveness and sustainability. For those with a zest for research, a career in academia or government policy could also await you, shaping the future of energy resources. Company leadership positions, such as Operations Manager and Project Manager, are also attainable thanks to the complex problem-solving abilities you will have developed through this education.

  • Drilling Engineer
  • Production Engineer
  • Reservoir Engineer
  • Academia/Researcher
  • Government Policy Analyst
  • Operations Manager
  • Project Manager

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for petroleum engineers was $141,280 in May 2024. The lowest 10 percent of petroleum engineers earned less than $77,340, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $176,990.

Source

As a post-graduate in Petroleum Engineering, you are likely to have a promising range of job opportunities in various sectors. Your expertise in extraction and production of oil and gas can lead to roles in exploration, drilling, reservoir engineering, and production operations. You could work on oil and gas rigs, take up office-based roles in energy companies, join government organizations, or even delve into research with scientific bodies. If you're inclined towards leadership and decision-making roles, aiming for positions such as Drilling Engineer, Production Engineer, Reservoir Engineer or even Chief Petroleum Engineer could be advantageous. Your role might involve using advanced technology, maintaining safety of operations, managing resources, or evaluating oil and gas reserves. You also have the opportunity to work in global locations given the widespread need for fossil fuels. Securing a degree in Petroleum Engineering from renowned universities equips you for these multifaceted roles and offers room for growth in this lucrative, essential industry.

Ready to compare Petroleum Engineering programs?

Share your study preferences once. We’ll use them to find relevant school options.

Find school options