Petroleum Engineering

The Bachelor of Engineering in Petroleum Engineering at UNSW Sydney is a comprehensive and innovative program designed to equip students with the essential knowledge, skills, and practical experience required to excel in the exploration, extraction, and production of hydrocarbons. This degree combines a strong foundation in core engineering principles with specialized coursework focused on the petroleum industry, including reservoir engineering, drilling engineering, production engineering, and energy resources management.

Throughout the program, students engage in a rigorous curriculum that integrates theoretical understanding with hands-on learning through laboratory work, industry placements, and project-based assessments. The program emphasizes the importance of sustainable development, environmental considerations, and safety protocols within the energy sector, preparing graduates to address the global challenges of energy supply and environmental impact.

Students will learn about the geological aspects of oil and gas reservoirs, the technologies involved in efficient drilling and extraction, and the engineering solutions to optimize production processes. The program also offers opportunities for students to develop skills in data analysis, computer modeling, and the use of advanced software tools widely utilized in the industry.

With a strong focus on innovation and industry engagement, the degree fosters partnerships with leading petroleum companies, providing students with valuable networking opportunities, internships, and industry projects. Graduates of the program are well-positioned for careers in upstream oil and gas exploration and production, energy consulting, environmental management, and research.

Research-active faculty members facilitate a dynamic learning environment, encouraging critical thinking, problem-solving, and continuous professional development. Upon completion, students will hold a recognized qualification that opens pathways to employment in the global energy sector or further postgraduate studies in petroleum engineering, energy resources, or related fields. The UNSW Sydney Petroleum Engineering program aims to develop visionary engineers capable of contributing to innovative solutions for sustainable energy production worldwide.

The Bachelor of Petroleum Engineering at UNSW Sydney offers a comprehensive and rigorous education designed to prepare students for a dynamic career in the upstream oil and gas industry. The program combines fundamental engineering principles with specialized courses that focus on exploration, reservoir management, drilling, and production processes. Throughout the degree, students gain critical skills in the analysis and management of petroleum reservoirs, well design and operation, and the application of cutting-edge technologies to optimize hydrocarbon recovery while ensuring environmental and safety standards are upheld.

The curriculum integrates core engineering disciplines such as fluid mechanics, geology, geophysics, thermodynamics, and materials science, tailored specifically to the needs of the petroleum sector. Students undertake practical training through laboratory work, field trips, and industry placements, providing hands-on experience in real-world settings. The program emphasizes sustainable practices and innovations in energy extraction, reflecting industry trends toward cleaner and more efficient technologies.

In addition to technical expertise, the program develops strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills, essential for leadership roles in multidisciplinary environments. Students are encouraged to engage in research projects and collaborative initiatives with industry partners, fostering an entrepreneurial mindset and a deep understanding of the global energy landscape. With pathways to postgraduate studies and professional accreditation, the Bachelor of Petroleum Engineering prepares graduates for a variety of careers in exploration, production, consulting, and energy management, both locally and internationally.

• Entry Process 1: a 4 or 3 year Bachelor of Engineering/Science degree in an applicable field or an equivalent qualification from a recognised university or tertiary institution
• OR Entry pathway 2: consideration will be given on an individual basis for those who have relevant oil industry experience with postsecondary training dependent on the portfolio encouraging the application. A minimum of 5 years of full-time relevant professional or responsibility from the upstream petroleum business is needed. Students are required to exhibit work experience from the Upstream Petroleum Industry (i.e. the exploration, reservoir engineering, drilling and production of oil &gas or / ). An entrance interview and could be deemed necessary. A portfolio will be necessary for Entry walkway 2.

The Bachelor of Engineering in Petroleum Engineering at UNSW Sydney offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their studies. Tuition fees for domestic students are set annually by the Australian government and are subject to change. For international students, fees are generally higher and are also updated annually. UNSW provides detailed information about these fees on their official website, allowing students to plan their finances accordingly.

Students are encouraged to explore scholarships and bursaries offered by UNSW and external organizations. The university provides various scholarships based on academic merit, financial need, and special criteria such as Indigenous background, female students in engineering, or regional students. Applications for scholarships are typically submitted alongside the university admission process and are highly competitive. Successful recipients may receive full or partial tuition fee coverage, living allowance support, or other financial assistance.

In addition to scholarships, students can access government sponsorship programs such as HECS-HELP for domestic students, which allows deferment of tuition fees until after graduation when the graduate’s income reaches a certain threshold. International students are generally required to pay their tuition fees upfront or within specified payment schedules. UNSW also offers payment plans enabling students to pay tuition fees in multiple installments, easing the financial burden over the semester.

Students should consider additional expenses such as textbooks, equipment, accommodation, and living costs, which vary depending on individual circumstances. The university recommends budgeting carefully and exploring external scholarships, student loans, or part-time work options to support ongoing financial needs. UNSW’s Careers and Employment team assists students in finding part-time employment opportunities on and around campus, which can help finance their studies.

In summary, the financing studies for the Petroleum Engineering program at UNSW Sydney include a combination of government support schemes, university scholarships, external funding opportunities, student loans, and personal savings. Prospective students are advised to review the latest fee schedules, scholarship opportunities, and financial aid options on the official UNSW website to ensure comprehensive planning and support during their studies.

The Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Petroleum Engineering at UNSW Sydney is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for a dynamic and technically challenging industry. The curriculum emphasizes core engineering principles, petroleum geology, reservoir engineering, drilling technology, and production engineering, providing a solid foundation in the science and engineering of hydrocarbon extraction. Throughout the program, students engage in hands-on laboratory work, industry projects, and internships that facilitate practical experience within the petroleum sector. The program also covers emerging technologies such as digital oilfield solutions, enhanced oil recovery, and sustainable energy practices, reflecting the evolving nature of the industry. Students benefit from access to state-of-the-art facilities and collaborations with industry partners, ensuring they acquire relevant skills and knowledge aligned with current industry standards. The program aims to develop strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills, essential for leadership roles in the global energy sector. Graduates are equipped to pursue careers in petroleum exploration, drilling operations, reservoir management, and energy consulting. The degree adheres to rigorous academic standards and includes opportunities for specialization in areas such as reservoir engineering or drilling technology. With the increasing focus on sustainable and environmentally responsible energy production, the program also emphasizes the importance of integrating sustainable practices into traditional petroleum engineering. Graduates of the program are well-positioned to contribute to innovations in hydrocarbon recovery and to navigate the challenges of transitioning to cleaner energy sources. The commencement of this program at UNSW Sydney reflects the university's commitment to providing world-class engineering education and fostering research and innovation that support global energy needs. Alumni of the program have gone on to secure prominent roles within the industry, both domestically and internationally. Overall, the UNSW Sydney Petroleum Engineering program offers a rigorous, industry-relevant education designed to prepare students for successful careers in the evolving energy landscape.