Heriot Watt University UK United Kingdom

Petroleum Engineering

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode Online
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The Petroleum Engineering MSc at Heriot-Watt University UK is designed for aspiring professionals seeking to master the complexities of oil and gas asset development in a safe, efficient, and sustainable manner. If you are a science or engineering graduate aiming to address the global energy demands and resource challenges, this postgraduate degree provides the essential knowledge and skills. You will delve into core areas such as reservoir engineering, drilling engineering, and petroleum economics, gaining a comprehensive understanding of exploration and extraction processes. This online Masters degree is ideal for those who need flexibility while pursuing advanced study in this critical industry.

You will engage with the curriculum through eight taught courses and two significant projects, allowing for a deep dive into subjects like reservoir simulation and production technology. The online learning mode, studied part-time over three years, enables you to balance your professional development with personal commitments. You will have the opportunity to work on real field data during your design project and select a specialist topic for your individual research project, potentially focusing on enhanced oil recovery or advanced drilling techniques. Graduates will be well-prepared for diverse roles within the global oil and gas sector.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This course provides a comprehensive overview of petroleum engineering principles and practices. Students will explore core areas including drilling engineering, formation evaluation, and reservoir engineering. The curriculum also covers petroleum economics, production technology, and advanced topics such as reservoir simulation and well test analysis, culminating in a design or individual project.

1 Core

Drilling Engineering
Formation Evaluation
Geoscience for Petroleum Engineering
Reservoir Engineering
Petroleum Economics
Production Technology
Reservoir Simulation
Well test Analysis
Design Project
Individual Project

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 6,195.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 6,195.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 6,195.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 18,585.00

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

Beverage Production & DistributionBlockchain & Emerging TechnologiesCoal & Consumable FuelsCommercial & Industrial ConstructionCreative & ContentCustoms, Trade & ComplianceHealthcare ConsultingPublic RelationsQuantity Surveying & Cost EstimationRail & Mass Transit

Top Employers Hiring for this course

AECOM

Arup

BP Plc

Charles River Laboratories

Diageo

Wood

Why Study 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 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 for degree courses. Full-time work is allowed during breaks, with no separate work permit required.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English language requirements, you can submit scores from TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. For example, TOEFL requires an overall score of 79, while IELTS requires a minimum of 6.5 overall.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue roles such as Petroleum Engineer, Drilling Engineer, Production Engineer, Geoscientist, or Reservoir Engineer.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Petroleum Engineering degree focuses on the safe and sustainable development of oil and gas resources and employs an interdisciplinary approach. Courses and projects cover applied petroleum engineering fundamentals, enhanced oil recovery, and production chemistry.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

You can begin your studies in January, May, or September. These intake months provide flexibility for students to start the Petroleum Engineering MSc program.
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