Petroleum engineers learn the methods and principles used to design and operate the systems that efficiently recover petroleum and natural gas.
Students develop a background in engineering economics, geology, chemistry, physics and math.
Program emphasis One of the main interests of KU's petroleum engineering faculty is reservoir engineering. The Tertiary Oil Recovery Project develops new methods for recovering and producing oil from reservoirs. KU students have an opportunity to learn the most advanced techniques of petroleum recovery from professors who have achieved national acclaim in this facet of engineering. Careers Petroleum engineers most often work in industries that produce oil and gas. In these industries, petroleum engineers may be involved in drilling wells, designing production facilities, and developing efficient oil and gas recovery plans.