University of Tulsa

What you'll study

The MSc in Petroleum Engineering combines core engineering fundamentals with applied coursework and research. Core topics typically include reservoir engineering, well drilling and completion engineering, production engineering, petrophysics and formation evaluation, and enhanced oil recovery methods. Programme components emphasise numerical methods and reservoir simulation, well testing and analysis, subsurface flow, and rock and fluid properties.

Students can expect a mix of lecture-based modules, laboratory and field practicals, and project work. Typical modules and subjects include:

• Reservoir Engineering: material balance, volumetrics, single- and multi-phase flow, reservoir performance prediction.
• Reservoir Simulation and Numerical Methods: finite-difference/finite-element approaches, history matching, compositional and black-oil modelling.
• Drilling and Well Completion: drilling mechanics, casing and cementing, completion design, wellbore hydraulics and integrity.
• Production Engineering and Artificial Lift: nodal analysis, multiphase flow in wells, rod and electrical submersible pumps, flow assurance.
• Petrophysics and Well Logging: log interpretation, core analysis, porosity/permeability evaluation.
• Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) & Unconventional Reservoirs: chemical, thermal and miscible EOR methods; shale and tight reservoir development.
• Geomechanics and Formation Evaluation: stress analysis, subsidence, fracture mechanics and well stability.
• Project Management and Petroleum Economics: field development planning, risk assessment, cost estimation and reserves classification.

The programme normally offers thesis and non-thesis routes. The thesis option focuses on original research under faculty supervision and can involve laboratory experiments, field data analysis or simulation studies. The coursework/non-thesis option emphasises applied skills through advanced project work and industry-style case studies. Hands-on experience is supported by departmental laboratories, computing facilities for reservoir simulation and access to regional field data.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in petroleum engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, civil engineering, geology/earth sciences or a closely related quantitative discipline from an accredited institution. A strong foundation in calculus, differential equations, fluid mechanics and thermodynamics is normally required.

Typical application components include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement outlining academic and professional goals, and a CV. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an approved test unless exempt. Some applicants with degrees in non‑petroleum disciplines may be admitted subject to completing prerequisite undergraduate coursework.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master’s in Petroleum Engineering pursue technical and managerial roles across the energy industry. Common career paths include reservoir engineer, production engineer, drilling and completions engineer, petrophysicist, operations manager and field development engineer. Many alumni work for national and independent oil companies, integrated energy firms, drilling and service companies, engineering consultancies and technology providers.

Given the evolving energy landscape, graduates also find opportunities in related areas such as carbon capture and storage (CCS), geothermal energy, subsurface data analytics, and energy transition projects where subsurface and reservoir engineering skills are valuable. The programme’s applied focus and industry links support internships and employer connections that help graduates move into these roles.

Why study at University of Tulsa

The University of Tulsa’s Mewbourne School of Petroleum and Geological Engineering is located in a region with deep industry activity, providing proximity to oil and gas operators, service companies and research organisations. The school is known for close student–faculty interaction, practical laboratory work and applied research collaborations with industry partners.

Students benefit from specialised laboratory facilities, access to reservoir simulation and well-model software, and opportunities for internships and industry-sponsored projects. Faculty members combine academic research with industry experience, supporting applied thesis topics and professional networking. The cohort size and programme structure aim to deliver technical depth while preparing graduates for immediate contribution in the field or for further research and doctoral study.