Petroleum Geochemistry – (M.Sc.)

This degree programme is recognised by the Joint Board of Moderators (ICE, IStructE, CIHT, IHE) as meeting requirements for Further Learning for a Chartered Engineer (CEng) for candidates who have already acquired an Accredited CEng (Partial) BEng (Hons) or an Accredited IEng (Full) BEng/BSc (Hons) undergraduate first degree. The programme is also accredited by the Geological Society (GeolSoc).

For the MSc you complete a compulsory taught course (100 credits) followed by a summer research project written up as a dissertation (80 credits). Diploma students undertake 80 credits of taught modules and a Diploma project and dissertation (40 credits).

The programme begins with modules that cover the origins of organic matter and petroleum source rocks and their maturation. The processes by which petroleum is generated, migrates and accumulates are then explored, as are the applications of geochemistry to reservoir assessment, production and environmental impact of petroleum exploration.

Practical classes are also given in essential organic geochemistry techniques. A more independent learning style is encouraged in the second semester, with two modules based on the Wessex Basin petroleum province in southern England, followed by a final synthesis showing how geochemistry contributes to the analysis of petroleum systems.

A range of dissertation projects is offered, some laboratory based, and others involving computer-based modelling. Students often work alongside one of our established research groups, and some placement projects may be available with industrial partners.