Petroleum Engineering

The Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Engineering at the University of Southern California offers a comprehensive education designed to prepare students for the dynamic and challenging field of petroleum extraction and production. The program combines rigorous coursework in fundamental sciences, engineering principles, and specialized petroleum techniques to equip graduates with the technical knowledge and practical skills necessary for success in the oil and gas industry.

Throughout the program, students explore core areas such as geology, reservoir engineering, drilling engineering, production engineering, and petrophysics. They gain hands-on experience through laboratory work, simulation exercises, and industry internships, enabling them to apply theoretical concepts to real-world problems. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of safety, environmental responsibility, and sustainable resources management, reflecting the industry's evolving priorities.

The USC Petroleum Engineering program benefits from access to cutting-edge laboratories and research facilities, fostering innovation and critical thinking. Students are encouraged to participate in research projects and collaborate with industry partners, providing valuable insights into current industry challenges and technological advancements. The program also emphasizes the development of communication, teamwork, and leadership skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles in multidisciplinary environments.

Graduates of the program are well-positioned to pursue careers in exploration and production companies, consulting firms, government agencies, and technological research institutions. They are equipped to work globally, addressing complex technical, regulatory, and environmental issues associated with petroleum extraction. Additionally, the program offers pathways for advanced studies, including master's and doctoral degrees, further enhancing career prospects.

Beyond technical expertise, the USC Petroleum Engineering program instills a strong ethical foundation and commitment to sustainable practices, aligning with industry trends toward responsible resource development. The program's blend of rigorous academics, practical experience, and professional development ensures that graduates are ready to meet the demands of the evolving energy sector and contribute meaningfully to innovative solutions in petroleum engineering.

The Master of Science in petroleum engineering is awarded in strict conformity with the general requirements of the Viterbi School of Engineering. A student may be permitted to elect the program without thesis upon approval from the department. The Master of Science Degree in Petroleum Engineering requires 27 units (18 units core courses, 9 units elective courses) of work beyond the Bachelor's Degree. The M.S. degree may be taken either with or without a thesis. The core courses are:

Masters in Petroleum Engineering, Smart Oilfield Technologies

The Master of Science Degree in Petroleum Engineering, Smart Oilfield Technologies requires 34 units (30 units core courses, 4 units elective courses) of work beyond the Bachelor's Degree. The M.S. degree may be taken either with or without a thesis. The core courses are:

• An undergraduate degree in Petroleum Engineering (or other engineering, math, or hard science with assigned deficiencies) from a regionally accredited college or university.
• Deficiency Courses: Students without a B.S. in Petroleum Engineering must complete the following prerequisite courses at USC: Introduction to Transport Processes in Porous Media (PTE 411x), Petroleum Reservoir Engineering (PTE 412x), Formation Evaluation (PTE 461), Petroleum Geology (PTE 466), and Computational Reservoir Modeling (PTE 500) before beginning the M.S. program. Units from these courses cannot be applied towards the degree. Other prerequisite courses may be assigned on a case-by-case basis upon consultation with the Department Advisor.
• Satisfactory cumulative undergraduate GPA (grade point average)
• Satisfactory GRE and TOEFL test scores. All scores must be officially reported to the university directly by ETS.
• Satisfactory performance in previous coursework related to the intended major.
• Transcripts: Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended
• GRE General Test: Satisfactory and valid test scores. Valid GRE scores must be dated within five years of the start of the intended application semester. The fall semester starts in August, and the spring semester starts in January. Official scores must be reported from ETS directly to USC using ETS school code 4852. A department code is not required
• Letters of Recommendation (3 Required): Letters of recommendation should be from faculty or others (supervisors, professional colleagues, etc.) qualified to evaluate your potential for graduate study.
• Statement of Purpose (Required): The statement of purpose should describe succinctly your reasons for applying to the proposed program at the Viterbi School of Engineering, your preparation for this field of study, study interests, future career plans, and other aspects of your background and interests which may aid the admissions committee in evaluating your aptitude and motivation for graduate study.
• Résumé or CV (required)
• English Language Proficiency: In addition to the general admission criteria listed above, international students whose first language is not English are required to take the TOEFL or IELTS examination to be considered a candidate for admission.  There is no minimum TOEFL or IELTS score required for admission to the Viterbi School. For possible exemption from additional language requirements, you must achieve an Internet Based TOEFL (iBT) score of 90, with no less than 20 on each section or an IELTS score of 6.5, with no less than 6 on each band score.

The University of Southern California offers various financial aid options to support students pursuing degrees in Petroleum Engineering. These include federal and institutional grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and loan opportunities designed to make education accessible and affordable. Undergraduate students enrolled in the Petroleum Engineering program can apply for USC’s merit-based scholarships, which are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership qualities, and other notable accomplishments. Additionally, need-based financial aid is available to students who demonstrate financial need, determined through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) submission. The university also participates in federal loan programs such as the Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loan and the Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan, providing borrowing options for eligible students to cover tuition and related expenses.

Graduate students in the Petroleum Engineering program have access to specialized funding opportunities, including departmental scholarships and assistantship positions. Graduate assistantships often include a stipend and tuition remission, enabling students to gain professional experience while reducing financial burdens. USC’s Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships offers comprehensive counseling services to help students navigate their financial options and apply effectively for aid programs. External scholarships from industry organizations and professional societies, such as the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE), are also promoted to students pursuing careers in petroleum engineering. The university provides resources and guidance on applying for these external funding opportunities, encouraging students to seek additional financial support.

The cost of attendance for the Petroleum Engineering program incorporates tuition, mandatory fees, housing, and other living expenses. USC offers payment plans and financial literacy resources to assist students in managing their educational expenses responsibly. The university is committed to ensuring that financial constraints do not prevent qualified students from enrolling in its programs by maintaining a robust support system for financial aid. Overall, USC’s financing studies aim to provide a comprehensive framework of funding options, enabling students to focus on their academic and professional development in Petroleum Engineering without undue financial stress.

The University of Southern California offers a Bachelor's degree program in Petroleum Engineering designed to prepare students for careers in the exploration, extraction, and production of oil and natural gas. The program emphasizes a solid foundation in engineering principles, geology, physics, and chemistry, combined with specialized coursework related to reservoir engineering, drilling, production engineering, and petrophysics. Students gain practical experience through labs, fieldwork, and internships with industry partners, fostering a strong understanding of the technical and economic aspects of the petroleum industry. The curriculum includes courses on subsurface characterization, reservoir modeling, drilling engineering, and sustainable energy practices, reflecting the evolving landscape of energy resources and the importance of environmentally responsible extraction methods.

Faculty members involved in research at USC's program are recognized experts in their fields, often collaborating with industry leaders and conducting cutting-edge research to improve recovery techniques and reduce environmental impacts. The university's facilities include advanced labs equipped with modern simulation software and instrumentation necessary for petroleum engineering research and training. USC's location offers strategic benefits, providing proximity to key oil and gas hubs, enabling students to participate in internships and cooperative education opportunities that enhance their practical skills and industry knowledge.

The program aims to develop graduates who are capable of designing, implementing, and managing petroleum extraction projects responsibly and efficiently. Students are also encouraged to engage in interdisciplinary studies and professional development activities to broaden their expertise and adapt to technological advancements in energy production. The degree prepares students for career paths in oil and gas companies, consulting firms, research organizations, and regulatory agencies worldwide. Graduates are equipped with the technical skills, critical thinking, and ethical awareness necessary to face the challenges of modern energy production and transition towards more sustainable energy solutions. The USC Petroleum Engineering program promotes leadership, innovation, and a commitment to safety and environmental stewardship in all aspects of petroleum engineering practice.