Petroleum Engineering

The Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Engineering at the University of Texas at Austin offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for a dynamic and evolving industry. This program combines rigorous coursework in fundamental engineering principles with specialized training in exploration, production, and refining of hydrocarbons. Students will gain a solid foundation in mathematics, physics, and chemistry, alongside specialized courses such as reservoir engineering, drilling engineering, production engineering, petrophysics, and natural gas engineering. The program emphasizes practical experience through laboratory work, industry internships, and research projects, enabling students to develop critical problem-solving skills and hands-on expertise. Faculty members are distinguished experts and researchers in the field, providing mentorship and ensuring that students are well-versed in the latest technological advancements and industry standards. Graduates of the Petroleum Engineering program are equipped to pursue careers in oil and gas exploration, production, refining, and alternative energy sources, contributing to sustainable resource management and energy innovation. The program also emphasizes environmental considerations and safety protocols, preparing students to address modern challenges in resource extraction responsibly. With state-of-the-art facilities, access to industry partners, and a robust alumni network, students have ample opportunities for career development and professional growth. The University of Texas at Austin's program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, ensuring rigorous educational standards and global recognition. Graduates are highly sought after by leading energy companies, and many go on to pursue advanced degrees in engineering, law, and business. Overall, the Petroleum Engineering program at the University of Texas at Austin prepares students not only to excel in traditional energy sectors but also to lead innovative solutions in the transition toward more sustainable and responsible energy production.

The student’s program of coursework is selected with the approval of the Graduate Advisor, with consultation of the supervising professor. These courses are selected from four modules: Basic Skills, Discipline Areas, PGE Electives, and Outside Electives. 

For students without a BS degree in petroleum engineering, the elective courses and courses taken in each module may be used to make up some (but not all) deficiencies. This may limit the choice of elective courses.

THESIS OPTION (30 semester credit hours)

• A minimum of two courses from Module I.
• A minimum of four courses from Module II and/or Module III.
• A minimum of two courses from Module IV.
• Thesis (PGE 698A and PGE 698B)

REPORT OPTION (33 semester credit hours)

• A minimum of three courses from Module I.
• A minimum of five courses from Module II and/or Module III.
• A minimum of two courses from Module IV.
• M.S. Report (PGE 398R).

PhD FAST TRACK OPTION (33 semester credit hours)

• A minimum of three courses from Module I.
• A minimum of five courses from Module II and/or Module III.
• A minimum of two courses from Module IV.
• M.S. Report (Ph.D. proposal: PGE 398R). 

NO THESIS NO REPORT OPTION (36 semester credit hours) 

• A minimum of three courses from Module I.
• A minimum of seven courses from Module II and/or Module III.
• A minimum of two courses from Module IV.

The MS program consists of courses from four different modules described below.

Module I - Basic Skills

• PGE 381K Engineering Analysis (can count as one outside course)
• PGE 381L Advanced Petrophysics
• PGE 381M Transport Phenomena
• PGE 384 Advanced Thermodynamics and Phase Behavior

Module II - Discipline Areas

• PGE 38x Drilling (course approved by Graduate Advisor)
• PGE 388 Advanced Reservoir Engineering
• PGE 385K Advanced Multi-Well Formation Evaluation
• PGE 383 Advanced Production Engineering

Module III - PGE Electives

• PGE 38x Graduate Electives within PGE.
• PGE 382/ EER 396 Basic Geology Concepts for Engineers (students with no PE background must take this course as an elective)

Module IV - Outside Electives

Students must take two graduate engineering or science courses outside the PGE department. At least one of these outside courses must be taught by non-PGE faculty. PGE 381K can satisfy one of the two outside course requirements.

Requirements

Follow instructions on the Cockrell School of Engineering website to complete the online application for admission. Do not use the ApplyTexas application.

You will be asked to submit three letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose that is no more than 1-2 pages, results from the general GRE test (subject tests not required), and a pdf copy of your current transcripts. You will also be required to pay the application fee ($65 for domestic students, $90 for international).

Have your GRE scores sent to the Graduate & International Admissions Center (GIAC) by the ETS testing center. The GIAC address is listed below. Use University code 6882. GRE scores are valid for 5 years. If you took the GRE more than 5 years ago, your scores have expired and you will need to re-take the exam.

For international students, a TOEFL exam is required unless you have a bachelor’s degree from a U.S. university. The requirement is not waived for the TOEFL if you earned only a master's degree or Ph.D. from a U.S. institution. Have your TOEFL scores sent to the GIAC by the ETS testing center and use university code 6882. The TOEFL is valid for 2 years. If you took the TOEFL more than 2 years ago, your score has expired and you will need to re-take the exam.

Scholarships

All admitted students are considered for any available fellowships and/or assistantships. Fellowships and research assistantships, including monthly stipends, tuition and fees, and health insurance benefits, are provided to qualified candidates.

The cost of living in Austin is low compared with many other American cities and Texas has no personal income tax. This will greatly affect the buying power of your stipend.

The process for obtaining financial support:

Once admitted, the Graduate Admissions Committee considers departmental fellowships on scholarly achievements or other criteria such as country of origin. This is an automatic process, so please do not contact the Graduate Office regarding possible fellowships.

As a next step, the application is automatically forwarded to all faculty in the department. The faculty will review each application to identify highly qualified individuals that they may want to hire as research assistantships or as possible teaching assistantships. Each faculty member makes his or her own determinations based on the candidate qualifications and his or her financial resources and projects.

The Petroleum Engineering program at The University of Texas at Austin is a highly respected and comprehensive program designed to prepare students for careers in the oil and gas industry. The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, covering areas such as drilling, reservoir engineering, production, and exploration. Students receive training in the fundamentals of geology, geophysics, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and geomechanics, equipping them with a multidisciplinary understanding necessary for the energy sector. The curriculum integrates coursework with hands-on experiences through laboratories, field exercises, and industry partnerships, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.

The program is located within the Cockrell School of Engineering, which is renowned for its excellence in engineering education and research. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, including specialized laboratories and access to cutting-edge software. The school maintains strong connections with industry leaders, providing students with internship opportunities, cooperative education programs, and employment prospects after graduation. The program also encourages research and innovation in sustainable energy practices, reservoir management, and technological advancements in petroleum extraction and processing.

Graduates of the Petroleum Engineering program are well-prepared to take on roles such as reservoir engineers, drilling engineers, production engineers, and petrotechnical consultants. They often find employment in oil and gas companies, service companies, government agencies, and environmental organizations. The program's rigorous academic standards and industry ties contribute to a high employment rate for graduates, with many participants joining leading global energy firms. The program also supports continuous education and professional development through certifications and postgraduate programs, including master's and doctoral degrees.

Overall, the Petroleum Engineering program at the University of Texas at Austin combines a strong foundational education with practical experiences and industry engagement, aiming to produce innovative and skilled professionals equipped to address the evolving challenges of the energy sector.