Studying petroleum engineering abroad
What is petroleum engineering?
Petroleum engineering is the study of locating, extracting, and producing oil and natural gas resources efficiently and safely. It focuses on understanding underground reservoirs, designing extraction methods, and applying technology to optimise energy production. The field also considers environmental safety, economic feasibility, and sustainable resource management.
This subject combines knowledge from geology, chemistry, mechanical engineering, and environmental science. As a petroleum engineering student, you will learn how to plan drilling operations, manage reservoirs, design pipelines, and analyse production data. Your learning may take you from classrooms and labs to oilfields, offshore platforms, and refineries.
Why study petroleum engineering abroad?
Studying petroleum engineering internationally allows you to experience different energy industries and advanced technologies. You could visit offshore drilling platforms, refineries, or exploration sites, gaining practical insight that theory alone cannot provide.
Studying abroad also exposes you to international regulations, industry standards, and energy policies. You will improve your cross-cultural communication skills and build connections with professionals, researchers, and companies in the global energy sector.
What you will study
Petroleum engineering programs often combine theory with practical experience. Core areas of study may include:
- Reservoir Engineering – understanding underground oil and gas formations and optimising extraction
- Drilling Engineering – planning and executing safe drilling operations
- Production Engineering – managing oil and gas flow from wells to processing facilities
- Pipeline and Transport Systems – designing infrastructure to safely move resources
- Safety and Environmental Management – reducing risks and minimising environmental impact
- Energy Economics and Policy – studying market trends, regulations, and sustainable energy strategies
Many courses include lab work, field visits, internships, or placements with energy companies, consultancies, or government agencies.
Related subjects you might also like:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Energy Systems
- Environmental Engineering
- Offshore Engineering
Accreditation
At undergraduate level, you may earn a Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) or Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Petroleum Engineering, Oil and Gas Engineering, or Energy Engineering. Some programs combine technical engineering with energy management or policy studies.
At postgraduate level, options include a Master of Science (MSc) or Master of Research (MRes) in Petroleum Engineering, Energy Systems, or Reservoir Management. Specialisations may focus on drilling technology, offshore engineering, or sustainable energy. Advanced research roles or academic careers usually require a PhD.
Professional accreditation is available in many countries through recognised engineering institutions, which can support careers as petroleum engineers, project managers, or energy consultants.
Careers
Graduates in petroleum engineering can work in exploration, production, and energy management around the world. Careers include petroleum engineer, drilling engineer, production engineer, and reservoir engineer.
Other roles include project management, safety and environmental engineering, and energy policy advisory positions in oil companies, government agencies, or international energy organisations. Research and innovation positions are available in laboratories, technology centres, and consultancies.
Graduates may also work as educators, technical consultants, or project coordinators in energy-related industries. The skills you gain are highly valued globally, providing opportunities to contribute to energy security, technological advancement, and sustainable resource use.