Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Petroleum Engineering

Petroleum engineering is not a narrowly-focused engineering discipline. In addition to having a petroleum engineering and earth science background, a petroleum engineer must have a good understanding of basic engineering, the natural sciences and mathematics. Applications from students having a MS in Petroleum Engineering, or in another complimentary discipline, will be considered for admission to the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program. To obtain the Ph.D. degree, a student must demonstrate unusual competence, creativity, and dedication in the degree field. In addition to extensive course work, a dissertation is required for the Ph.D. degree. Minimum 90 credit hours beyond the bachelor’s degree of which no less than 30 credit hours earned by research, or minimum 54 credit hours beyond the Master’s degree of which no less than 30 credit hours earned by research. Career Paths Graduates of the program are in high demand in private ­industry, as evidenced by the strong job market and high salaries. The petroleum industry offers a wide range of employment opportunities for Mines petroleum engineering students during summer breaks and after graduation. Exciting experiences range from field work in producing oil and gas fields to office jobs in small towns or large cities. Worldwide travel and overseas assignments are available for interested students. One of our objectives in the Petroleum Engineering Department is to prepare students to succeed in an energy ­industry that is evolving into an industry working with many energy sources. Besides developing technical competence in petroleum engineering, you will learn how your education can help you contribute to the development of alternative ­energy sources. In addition to exciting careers in the petroleum industry, many of our graduates find rewarding careers in the environmental arena, law, medicine, business and many other walks of life.