BEng (Honours) (Petroleum Engineering) in Bentley Australia | Curtin University

Petroleum engineers specialize in extracting oil and gas from underground reservoirs. They work alongside geologists and other experts to analyze reservoir properties, then design and implement efficient extraction techniques.

With typical reservoirs recovering only about 30% of their oil, these engineers play a crucial role in enhancing production efficiency. Their expertise is equally vital for developing offshore gas resources.

This program teaches students to assess, drill, and manage oil and gas reserves. The curriculum covers diverse subjects including chemical engineering, drilling operations, reservoir fluid dynamics, geological evaluation, hydrocarbon behavior, field development strategies, production technologies, thermodynamics, and well completion engineering.

Hands-on learning occurs in specialized labs for fluid analysis, reservoir rock studies, and drilling simulations. Industry visits expose students to service companies, government agencies, and active exploration/production sites.

Students also examine global market forces and business profitability through economics and risk management courses.

The final year features a significant research project and field development planning exercise, with students working on actual field data. Industry partners like Chevron, Woodside, and Shell support Curtin's program and offer employment prospects.

Instruction comes primarily from industry-experienced faculty. Students are encouraged to join the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE), gaining access to professional networks and career development resources through Curtin's SPE chapter.