Program Overview
The Master of Science in Petroleum Engineering at the University of Kansas provides students with advanced knowledge and hands-on experience in petroleum reservoir management, drilling, and production operations. This master’s in petroleum engineering is designed to deepen technical expertise while preparing students to address complex challenges in the oil and gas industry through efficient, data-driven, and responsible resource development.
Students in the master’s in petroleum engineering program engage in advanced study of reservoir behavior, well performance, and production systems while integrating sustainable and economically sound extraction practices. Coursework and research emphasize both fundamental engineering principles and applied problem-solving in real-world petroleum systems.
As part of leading petroleum engineering master’s programs, the KU curriculum blends theory with application. Students explore reservoir characterization, multiphase flow in porous media, enhanced recovery processes, and computational modeling techniques. Faculty research and industry engagement provide opportunities to investigate current challenges in subsurface energy production and management.
For students considering how to become a petroleum engineer, earning a graduate degree can expand technical specialization, open doors to research roles, and accelerate advancement into leadership positions. International students seeking a master’s in petroleum engineering in the USA benefit from exposure to U.S. industry practices, advanced laboratory facilities, and collaborative research environments.
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For more information about the program, visit the program page below.
Petroleum Engineering, MSKU School of Engineering
The Master’s in Petroleum Engineering is part of the School of Engineering, where new technologies are developed to solve the problems facing the world.Master’s in Petroleum Engineering Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the KU petroleum engineering master’s program will:
- Demonstrate advanced knowledge of reservoir engineering, production engineering, and drilling engineering principles.
- Apply mathematical and computational methods to analyze complex petroleum systems.
- Evaluate fluid flow in porous media and model reservoir performance using industry-relevant tools.
- Design and assess enhanced recovery and production strategies using technical and economic criteria.
- Conduct independent research, interpret technical literature, and communicate findings effectively in professional and academic settings.
What Careers Are Possible with a Master's in Petroleum Engineering?
Petroleum engineers evaluate underground reservoirs, design drilling strategies, model fluid flow, and optimize production systems to maximize resource recovery while maintaining safety and environmental standards.
Understanding how to become a petroleum engineer typically begins with a bachelor’s degree in engineering, followed by professional experience or advanced study. Completing a master’s in petroleum engineering can strengthen technical expertise, support specialization in areas such as reservoir simulation or enhanced recovery, and position graduates for senior engineering or research roles.
Career paths include:
- Reservoir Engineer
- Drilling Engineer
- Production Engineer
- Energy Analyst or Consultant
According to Lightcast and industry data, the typical master’s in petroleum engineering salary ranges from approximately $90,000-$160,000+ per year.
Tuition and Financial Aid
KU is committed to affordable education. The Financial Aid & Scholarships office provides resources to help students understand tuition costs and explore financial aid options, including:
- Fellowships
- Research Assistantships & Teaching Assistantships
- Federal Loans & Work-Study Programs
Students are encouraged to file the FAFSA by February 1 to maximize financial aid opportunities. Visit KU Financial Aid & Scholarships for more details.
Admission Requirements
To apply for the master’s in petroleum engineering, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree in petroleum engineering, chemical engineering, or a related field from an accredited institution.
- Statement of Purpose
- Resume or CV
- Three letters of recommendation
- TOEFL, PTE, or IELTS scores (non-native English speakers)
For full details, visit KU Graduate Admissions.
Student Life and Learning Experiences
Students in the master’s in petroleum engineering program participate in laboratory research, reservoir simulation, faculty-led research, and professional development activities through organizations such as the Society of Petroleum Engineers.Master’s in Petroleum Engineering Sample Courses
The master’s in petroleum engineering curriculum includes:
- Methods of Chemical and Petroleum Calculations
- Advanced Reservoir Engineering
- Introduction to Flow in Porous Media
- Enhanced Petroleum Recovery
- Phase Equilibrium
For a full course list, refer to the KU Academic Catalog.
Master’s in Petroleum Engineering Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
Application deadlines for each entry term and modality are:
Online:
- Spring 2026 – Oct. 2
- Summer 2026 – May 1
- Fall 2026 – July 1
In-Person:
- Spring 2026 – Oct. 2
- Summer 2026 – Priority deadline Jan. 6, final deadline Feb. 3
- Fall 2026 – Priority deadline Jan. 6, final deadline Mar. 3
How long will it take to complete the degree?
Students typically complete this degree in two years.
What does a petroleum engineer do?
A petroleum engineer applies engineering principles to extract oil and natural gas from underground reservoirs. Their responsibilities include:
- Designing drilling and extraction methods.
- Evaluating reservoir performance and improving oil recovery.
- Managing production operations and ensuring efficiency.
- Implementing environmentally sustainable extraction practices.
Why choose KU for petroleum engineering?
- Industry-Focused Curriculum: Learn about advanced technologies in drilling, reservoir engineering, and enhanced oil recovery, supported by rigorous quantitative analysis and modeling.
- Research Opportunities: Engage in faculty-led research spanning reservoir simulation, fluid flow in porous media, enhanced oil recovery, and production optimization.
- Strong Industry Connections: KU maintains relationships with energy companies and professional organizations, providing opportunities for networking, internships, and applied research collaborations.
With a petroleum engineering master’s, graduates gain the expertise needed to optimize hydrocarbon recovery while contributing to responsible resource development and long-term energy strategies.