Heriot Watt University UK United Kingdom

MSc Petroleum Engineering

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The MSc Petroleum Engineering at Heriot Watt University UK is designed for science and engineering graduates, or those from a numerate background, aiming to address global energy and resource demands by developing sustainable oil and gas assets. You will gain in-depth knowledge of fundamental concepts, theories, and principles across key disciplines including reservoir engineering, petroleum geology, drilling engineering, formation evaluation, reservoir simulation, petroleum economics, production technology, and well test analysis. This postgraduate degree equips you with the essential skills and understanding required to work internationally in the oil and gas industry to a high standard, preparing you for complex challenges in subsurface energy exploitation.

This full-time, on-campus Masters degree is typically studied over one year, integrating theoretical learning with practical application. You will utilise leading computer software tools for design and analysis, and engage with real-world problems through a significant Field Development Project and an Individual Project. Throughout your studies, you will develop a strong understanding of the ethics and standards inherent in professional engineering practice. Upon graduation, you will be well-prepared to join oil company asset teams, apply your learning to practical oilfield issues, and potentially transition into roles related to carbon storage and other subsurface energy initiatives.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MSc program in Petroleum Engineering provides a comprehensive foundation in the core disciplines of the field. You will explore essential areas such as drilling engineering, formation evaluation, reservoir engineering, and production technology. The curriculum also incorporates petroleum economics, reservoir simulation, and advanced topics like well test analysis. Culminating in a significant field development project and an individual research project, this program equips students with the practical and analytical skills necessary for a successful career in the petroleum industry.

1 Mandatory September

Drilling Engineering
Formation Evaluation
Geoscience with Integrated Data Science
Reservoir Engineering

2 Mandatory January

Petroleum Economics
Production Technology
Reservoir Simulation
Reservoir Engineering - Well test Analysis

3 Mandatory May

Field Development Project
Individual Project

4 Mandatory January

Reservoir Engineering - Well test Analysis
Reservoir Simulation
Production Technology
Petroleum Economics

5 Mandatory September

Drilling Engineering
Formation Evaluation
Geoscience with Integrated Data Science
Reservoir Engineering

6 Mandatory Second January

Field Development Project
Individual Project

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

10% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 36,457.00 USD 40,496.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 36,457.00 USD 40,496.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 503.00 - USD 2,667.00
Food & Groceries USD 4,833.00 - USD 6,444.00
Transport USD 967.00 - USD 1,128.00
Utilities & Bills USD 2,417.00 - USD 6,847.00
Estimated Total USD 8,217.00 - USD 14,419.00

Living cost estimates are based on Edinburgh Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

84%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Clinical & Medical ServicesCloud Computing & InfrastructureData Science & AnalyticsEnvironmental & Sustainable ConstructionHardware & Semiconductor EngineeringMarket Research & InsightsNetworking & Internet ServicesQuality Assurance & TestingQuantity Surveying & Cost EstimationRehabilitation & Physiotherapy

Top Employers Hiring for this course

AECOM

Arup

BP Plc

Charles River Laboratories

Diageo

Wood

Why Study MSc Petroleum Engineering at Heriot Watt University UK

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at Heriot Watt University UK in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about MSc Petroleum Engineering at Heriot Watt University UK

Can I work while studying?

International students in the UK can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks while enrolled in degree courses. No separate work permit is needed for this program.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, students must meet specific English language requirements: TOEFL scores of at least 79 overall, IELTS scores of 6.0, or PTE scores of 63 overall. Make sure to meet the listening, reading, speaking, and writing score thresholds as well.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Reservoir Engineers, Petroleum Geologists, Drilling Engineers, and Production Technologists.

What will I actually study in this course?

The MSc Petroleum Engineering program focuses on petroleum geology and drilling engineering, equipping students with essential skills for the oil and gas industry. Graduates will tackle real oilfield problems and gain transferrable skills applicable to carbon storage and subsurface energy exploitation.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MSc Petroleum Engineering program has intakes in January and September each year. Prospective students should prepare their applications in advance to meet these deadlines.
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