University of Regina

Overview

The Petroleum Systems Engineering program at the University of Regina offers a comprehensive graduate education focused on research in reservoir engineering and related fields. This program is designed for those who aspire to deepen their knowledge and skills in areas such as enhanced oil recovery, reservoir simulation, and fluid–rock interactions. Students also investigate advanced methods for heavy oil recovery and the storage of carbon dioxide in hydrocarbon reservoirs.

What You'll Study

Programme Structure: The curriculum combines graduate coursework with a significant research component, guided by faculty supervision. The courses and research focus will depend on whether you are pursuing a Master’s or Doctoral degree, as well as your academic background and chosen thesis topic.

Core/Advanced Courses (examples)

• Surface Thermodynamics
• Advanced Reservoir Fluid Analysis
• Petroleum Geomechanics
• Advanced Reservoir Engineering
• Advanced Reservoir Simulation

Research Component

• Conduct thesis-based research on approved topics within petroleum systems, including enhanced oil recovery, heavy oil recovery, fluid–rock interactions, reservoir simulation, and carbon dioxide storage.
• Research progress and requirements will be monitored by the graduate program and supervisory committee.

Prerequisite/Bridging Coursework

• Students may need to complete additional prerequisite courses if their previous education does not align with doctoral-level research expectations. These courses are typically not counted toward formal degree requirements.

Entry Requirements

For admission to the doctoral program, applicants generally need to hold a thesis-based Master’s degree in a relevant field and demonstrate adequate preparation for advanced graduate study. If an applicant's background is insufficient for direct admission to the doctoral program, they may be offered a place in the Master’s program with additional coursework to build the necessary foundation. Completed coursework for this purpose will not contribute to degree credits.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the Petroleum Systems Engineering program are well-equipped for various careers in the energy sector. They can pursue roles in research, engineering, and management, focusing on oil and gas exploration, reservoir management, and environmental sustainability. The program prepares students for challenges in the industry by fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills, making them valuable assets in the global energy landscape.