Petroleum Geoscience

Petroleum Geoscience at Royal Holloway, University of London, offers an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the Earth's subsurface with a focus on the exploration and development of hydrocarbon resources. This program combines principles from geology, geophysics, and petroleum engineering to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful career in the oil and gas industry. Throughout the course, students explore topics such as sedimentology, stratigraphy, structural geology, seismic imaging, reservoir characterization, and hydrocarbon basin analysis. The program emphasizes practical skills by including laboratory work, field trips, and data analysis exercises, preparing graduates to interpret geological data, assess exploration opportunities, and evaluate reservoir potential effectively.

Students will learn about the geological processes that create petroleum accumulations, as well as the technological methods used to locate and extract hydrocarbons. The curriculum integrates latest industry practices and advances, ensuring that graduates are ready to meet the technical challenges of the energy sector. Additionally, the program offers modules on environmental management and sustainable practices related to resource extraction, fostering responsible and informed decision-making.

Royal Holloway's state-of-the-art facilities and expert faculty provide an enriching learning environment, while industry links open pathways to internships and employment opportunities. The program aims to develop analytical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills essential for the dynamic field of petroleum geoscience. Graduates of this program are well-prepared for careers in oil and gas exploration, reservoir management, seismic data interpretation, and related sectors within the energy industry or further academic research. With a focus on both scientific understanding and practical application, the Petroleum Geoscience program at Royal Holloway is designed to produce versatile graduates capable of contributing to the sustainable and efficient utilization of Earth's hydrocarbon resources.

• Tectonics and Lithosphere Dynamics
• Geophysical Analysis
• Structural Analysis
• Petroleum Systems
• Independent Project
• Sedimentology and Stratigraphy
• Reservoir Geoscience
• Advanced Structural Analysis (only for Tectonics)
• Regional Tectonic Analysis

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree (Bakalavr). Students who have successfully completed a four year Bachelor's degree (Baklavar) in an appropriate subject with good grades/GPA and at a reputable university will be considered for entry to a Royal Holloway Master's degree programme. Exact requirements will depend upon the programme, but most departments will ask for a minimum final grade of either 3.5/5.0 (70%) or 4.0/5.0 (80%).
• Specialist Diploma. Students who have successfully completed a Specialist Diploma in an appropriate subject with good grades/GPA and at a reputable university will be considered for entry to a Royal Holloway Master's degree programme. Exact requirements will depend upon the programme, but most departments will ask for a minimum final grade of either 3.5/5.0 (70%) or 4.0/5.0 (80%). 
• IELTS 6.5 overall with 6.0 in writing and no subscore below 5.5
• You are required to register your one reference, even if you have uploaded a copy of their reference. You may be contacted to submit a 2nd reference if we need further information to assess your suitability for the programme you have applied for.
• Copies of the transcripts from your undergraduate degree (this can be a transcript of your progress so far if you have not yet completed it)
• Copies of any other qualifications you have taken that are relevant to your chosen course
• A supporting statement, explaining your motivation to study your chosen course
• One academic reference - you can either upload a copy (this is the quickest option) or your referee can enter them directly into the online system once you've completed the application
• You will also be required to submit a copy of your C.V. as part of your application.
• A strong academic background
• An enthusiasm for Petroleum Geoscience, illustrated by work experience, involvement in relevant student projects, membership of professional societies and attendance at relevant conferences and meetings.
• Relevant work experience is useful, but not essential.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Scholarships

• International Excellence Scholarships
• Global Education

The BSc Petroleum Geoscience at Royal Holloway, University of London, is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to provide students with a solid foundation in the fundamental principles of geoscience, with a specialized focus on the exploration and production of petroleum resources. The course covers a wide range of topics, including sedimentology, structural geology, geophysics, petrophysics, geochemistry, and basin analysis, equipping graduates with the necessary skills to understand the geological processes involved in hydrocarbon exploration. The program emphasizes practical experience through laboratory work, field studies, and industry-related projects, enabling students to develop hands-on skills and a practical understanding of subsurface exploration techniques. Students also gain familiarity with industry-standard software and data interpretation methods, preparing them for careers in the oil and gas industry, environmental consultancy, or further research. The program is designed to foster critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills vital for professional success. Collaboration with industry partners and access to specialised facilities such as seismic interpretation labs and petrophysics labs further enhance learning opportunities. Graduates of the program are well-positioned to pursue careers in hydrocarbons exploration, reservoir management, environmental assessment, or continue postgraduate studies in geosciences or petroleum engineering. The course duration is typically three years for full-time students, with options for industrial placements. Entrance requirements generally include strong A-level results in science subjects such as Chemistry, Physics, or Geography. The university provides a vibrant academic community and support resources tailored to science students, fostering an environment conducive to research, professional development, and innovation in petroleum geoscience.