Adam Zalewski

Petroleum engineering is concerned with the design and development of front-end engineering technologies required in the exploration and extraction of oil and gas reservoirs.
While oil and gas will continue to play an important role in meeting our energy needs for years to come, the knowledge and skills you will acquire as a petroleum engineer are also in high demand in the renewable energy sector, for example in geothermal energy and carbon capture and storage.
This programme covers the technical, safety and economic aspects of oil and gas field development.
You will study topics such as petroleum geology, drilling and well engineering, and geomechanics to gain the knowledge and skills needed to develop sustainable solutions to ensure the safe recovery, processing, transportation, transmission, and utilisation of petroleum products often in challenging environments.
In addition to the technical petroleum engineering skills, you will also learn skills in project management, project economics and environmental impact assessment.
Our interdisciplinary approach means that you study the fundamentals of each engineering discipline before specialising in your third year. You can therefore keep your options open while gaining a wide range of perspectives and skills - something that makes Aberdeen graduates better equipped to collaborate, innovate and lead in the workplace.
Aberdeen is internationally recognised as a major international energy city and is leading the way in applying world-class technical expertise to the energy transition challenge. The School of Engineering has strong links with the energy industry, including local, national and international organisations, who support our teaching through guest lectures and seminars, placement opportunities, site visits and scholarships.
While oil and gas will continue to play an important role in meeting our energy needs for years to come, the knowledge and skills you will acquire as a petroleum engineer are also in high demand in the renewable energy sector, for example in geothermal energy and carbon capture and storage. Petroleum engineers can also apply their experience and expertise to offshore wind, for example, in the installation and maintenance of structures in challenging offshore environments.
The first two years cover general Engineering, with elements of Chemical, Mechanical, Petroleum and Electrical/Electronics, as well as Civil. In the later years you specialise, following your chosen discipline in greater depth. You do not need to finalise your choice of specialisation until you begin third year.
It is possible to move between MEng and BEng and this can be accomplished at any point until the second half session of fourth year. Successful BEng candidates will be offered the chance to change to the MEng and there is no quota, meaning that if grade requirements are met that transfer is guaranteed.
In year 1 you can study topics such as Engineering Mathematics, Principles of Electronics, Electronics Design, Fundamental Engineering Mechanics, Fundamentals of Engineering Materials and Computer Aided Design & Communication.
15 Credit Points
The aim of the course is to introduce basic concepts of electrical & electronics within a context of general engineering. The topics covered are kept at an elementary level with the aim of providing the foundational material for subsequent courses at levels 1 and 2. The course adopts the philosophy of application oriented teaching. During each topic the students will be provided with examples of day-to-day devices. Topics covered include dc circuit analysis, electronic amplifiers, digital circuits, optoelectronics, and ac theory.
15 Credit Points
Chemistry plays a central role in modern science and engineering, not only because of the insights it gives on the composition, properties, and reactivity of matter but also because of its wide-ranging applications. This course seeks to consolidate some of the important fundamentals of chemistry that underlie many topics and principles across the physical sciences and engineering, bringing together molecular structure, reaction mechanisms, the driving forces behind chemical reactions, and methods of chemical analysis and structure determination.
Workshops and laboratory classes complement lectures by consolidating learning and developing problem-solving and hands-on practical skills.
15 Credit Points
The course is designed to introduce the students to different methods of communication in the process of interchanging ideas and information. Oral presentation and writing of technical reports are introduced. The importing data from web-based and library-based sources will be integrated through information retrieval and investigative skills training. Professional ethics are covered on plagiarism, copyright and intellectual property. Engineering drawing skills and knowledge of relevant British and International Standards will be developed through intensive training in the use of computer aided design and modelling package, SolidWorks. Standard drawing formats including 3D depiction of stand alone parts and assemblies are covered.
15 Credit Points
The course presents fundamental mathematical ideas useful in the study of Engineering. A major focus of the course is on differential and integral calculus. Applications to Engineering problems involving rates of change and averaging processes are emphasized. Complex numbers are introduced and developed. The course provides the necessary mathematical background for other engineering courses in level 2.
15 Credit Points
Engineering Mechanics is concerned with the state of rest or motion of objects subject to the action of forces. The topic is divided into two parts: STATICS which considers the equilibrium of objects which are either at rest or move at a constant velocity, and DYNAMICS which deals with the motion and associated forces of accelerating bodies. The former is particularly applied to beams and truss structures. The latter includes a range of applications, such as car suspension systems, motion of a racing car, missiles, vibration isolation systems, and so on.
15 Credit Points
Engineering design depends on materials being shaped, finished and joined together. Design requirements define the performance required of the materials. What do engineers need to know about materials to choose and use them successfully? They need a perspective of the world of materials. They need understanding of material properties. They need methods and tools to select the right material for the job. This course will help you develop knowledge and skills required for the successful selection and use of engineering materials.
This course, which is prescribed for level 1 undergraduate students (and articulating students who are in their first year at the University), is studied entirely online, takes approximately 5-6 hours to complete and can be taken in one sitting, or spread across a number of weeks.
Topics include orientation overview, equality and diversity, health, safety and cyber security and how to make the most of your time at university in relation to careers and employability.
Successful completion of this course will be recorded on your Enhanced Transcript as ‘Achieved’.
Select a further 30 credit points from courses of choice.
15 Credit Points
The fluid mechanics section of the course begins with the material properties of fluids. This is followed by studying fluid statics and principles of fluid motion. Bernoulli’s equation is used to explain the relationship between pressure and velocity. The final fluids section introduces the students to incompressible flow in pipelines.
The thermodynamics section presents: the gas laws, including Van Der Waals’ equation; the first law of thermodynamics with work done, heat supply, and the definitions of internal energy and enthalpy. The second law is introduced including entropy through the Carnot cycle.
15 Credit Points
A general engineering course that provides an insight into the principles of engineering design process, computer programming in MATLAB and its application in parametric study and basic design optimisation, environmental ethics and sustainability in the context of design, and Computer Aided Design (CAD) using Solidworks. The course also includes hands-on exercises on the manufacture of simple parts using a variety of machine tools and joining processes.
15 Credit Points
A general engineering course that provides insight into the two main conservation principles, mass and energy. Processes are usually described through block diagrams. This language, common to many disciplines in engineering, helps the engineer to look at their processes with an analytical view. Degree of freedom analysis is addressed, emphasising its importance to solve a set of linear equations that model fundamental balances of mass. Practical examples of Energy balances are displayed, bringing Thermodynamics to a practical level. Heat Transfer is introduced. Process control is introduced, explaining basic control techniques and concepts, i.e sensors, feedback, control loops and PID controllers.
15 Credit Points
This course provides students with the opportunity to refresh and extend their knowledge to analyse the mechanical behaviour of engineering materials and structures. In particular, mechanical properties of materials, and 2D and 3D stresses and strains are examined, the effects of internal imperfections on the performance of materials under loading, brittle fracture, fatigue and non-destructive testing are discussed. The structural analysis of beams and columns, deflection and buckling, as well as design applications are also considered in the course.
15 Credit Points
This course provides students with an integrated development of methods for modelling, analysing and designing systems comprising electrical and mechanical components. In doing so it intends to emphasise to the students the similarity in behaviour between electrical and mechanical systems. The course aims to give an introduction to both electrical machines, circuit and systems, transformers, and similar mechanical systems like gearbox, vibrating system and principles of dynamics, and thus provide the foundation material for several courses at level 3 .
15 Credit Points
This course is an introduction to the formation mechanisms and controls on formation of the three major rock groups: igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary. The relationship between plate tectonics and the petrogenesis of igneous and metamorphic rocks, including types and styles of volcanic eruptions will be addressed. The formation and fill of sedimentary basins and their importance in the accumulation of hydrocarbons is an integral part of the course.
15 Credit Points
This course follows Engineering Mathematics 1 in introducing all the mathematical objects and techniques needed by engineers. It has three parts:
Select a further 15 credit points from courses of choice.
You have the opportunity to study from a range of courses leading to specialisation in your chosen discipline. The opportunity exists to study a European language to support this study. Formal courses continue to develop your specialist interests.
15 Credit Points
Modern engineering analysis relies on a wide range of analytical mathematical methods and computational techniques in order to solve a wide range of problems. The aim of this course is to equip students with the necessary skills to quantitatively investigate engineering problems. Examples applying the methods taught to practical situations from across the full range of engineering disciplines will feature heavily in the course.
10 Credit Points
To course aims to provide students with an awareness of purpose, principals, fundamental concepts and strategies of safety and project management.
15 Credit Points
The course begins with dimensional analysis and the concept of dynamic similarity applied to fluid flow phenomena. This is followed by sections on the energy and momentum equations applied to a range of problems in civil, mechanical, chemical and petroleum engineering, including steady flow in pipes, design of pump-pipeline systems, cavitation, forces on bends, nozzles and solid bodies, turbomachinery and propeller theory. A section on unsteady flow applies inertia and water hammer theory to the calculation of pressure surge in pipes. The final section deals with flow through porous media such as flow through soils and rocks.
15 Credit Points
The process of drilling an oil and gas well will be outlined. We will look at the surface equipment, downhole technologies and associated safety issues. Drilling fluids, casing and cementing the well, directional drilling etc. will be investigated
15 Credit Points
This course focuses on applied momentum, heat, and mass transport in engineering problems. It demonstrates how fundamental design equations can be derived for a wide range of real engineering problems (e.g. nuclear fuel rods, coal combustion, radiation shielding, electrical heaters, toothpaste etc). This course makes it clear that engineering is the art of applying mathematics to the real world and develops the tools required to tackle a wide range of challenges.
The analytical results of transport phenomena are demonstrated in simple systems before discussing more complex systems, such as multiphase flow, which require the use of semi-empirical correlations to solve.
15 Credit Points
This course presents an introduction to the theories that govern the flow of oil and gas through a reservoir rock. The mechanisms that drive the fluid flow through the reservoir and that control hydrocarbon production are described and discussed. Some ways of increasing hydrocarbon production are introduced. The course is intended for students on the honours petroleum engineering degree program and students will require a strong engineering, or physics background (to level 3) and a good grasp of engineering mathematics at level 3 (or equivalent).
15 Credit Points
This course aims to introduce students to the concept of the petroleum system, demonstrating how all the elements are necessary for a conventional accumulation of hydrocarbons. It will deal particularly with the petroleum geology aspects of exploration and show how explorationists make predictions of hydrocarbon volumes in frontier areas. The course looks in detail at reservoir characterisations and the factors that influence the performance of hydrocarbon and geothermal reservoirs.
10 Credit Points
This course provides experience of working in a team by carrying out a practical well engineering design.
The design will draw on theories and concepts from courses previously and/or currently being studied by the student. This course may be accompanied by lectures from practising engineers on professional aspects of petroleum engineering design and practice. Students will be encouraged to attend relevant local meetings of professional engineering societies and institutions.
10 Credit Points
This course introduces students to the fundamentals of well fluid and reservoir testing and the implications for reservoir characterisation. The theory of reservoir pressure testing is introduced, testing methods examined and some of the standard analysis techniques are explored using both “hand calculations” and industry standard software.
The major feature is the individual project in the area of your specialisation. The project occupies half of your study time and can be undertaken in Aberdeen or abroad. The opportunity exists to study a European language to support this study.
10 Credit Points
This course provides students with an understanding of advanced concepts of geomechanics and their application to safe, environmentally friendly and efficient drilling for, and production of, hydrocarbon fluids. The course has no formal pre-requisites, but is intended for students on the Honours Petroleum Engineering Degree Programme and students will require a strong Engineering, or Physics background (to Level 3), and a good grasp of Engineering Mathematics at Level 3 (or equivalent).
10 Credit Points
This course provides students with understanding of analytical methods that can be used to assess different improved hydrocarbon recovery methods and identify the principal mechanisms controlling the performance of producing oil and gas reservoirs.
10 Credit Points
This course provides detailed understanding of the methodologies and relevant engineering science and technology for efficient and safe production of oil and gas.
15 Credit Points
This course provides a detailed overview of oil and gas field development from discovery to abandonment with particular focus on the decisions made prior to first production. The roles of uncertainties, economics considerations, safety and environmental impact on the design choices are explored.
Select one of the following options:
We will endeavour to make all course options available. However, these may be subject to change - see our Student Terms and Conditions page.
Students are assessed by any combination of three assessment methods:
The exact mix of these methods differs between subject areas, year of study and individual courses.
Honours projects are typically assessed on the basis of a written dissertation.
The University of Aberdeen is delighted to offer eligible self-funded international on-campus undergraduate students a £6,000 scholarship for every year of their programme.
View the Aberdeen Global ScholarshipThe information below is provided as a guide only and does not guarantee entry to the University of Aberdeen.
SQA Highers
Standard: ABBB (Mathematics and Physics or Engineering Science required*)
Applicants who achieve the Standard entry requirements over S4 and S5 will be made either an unconditional or conditional offer of admission.
Minimum: BBB (Good performance required in Mathematics and Physics*)
Applicants who achieve our Minimum entry requirements over S4 and S5 are encouraged to apply and will be considered. Good performance in additional Highers / Advanced Highers maybe required in order to receive an offer of admission.
Adjusted: BB (Good performance required in Mathematics*)
Applicants who meet one or more of our widening access criteria and who achieve good performance in Maths and one other subject are guaranteed a conditional offer. Good performance in additional Highers / Advanced Highers will be required.
* These subjects can be either held at the time of application or be achieved during the appropriate admissions cycle.
More information on our definition of Standard, Minimum and Adjusted entry qualifications.
A LEVELS
Standard: BBB (Good performance required in Mathematics, plus at least one from Physics, Design & Technology, Engineering or Chemistry). Applicants who are predicted to achieve the Standard entry requirements are encouraged to apply and may be made an offer of admission.
Minimum: BBC (Good performance required in Mathematics, plus at least one from Physics, Design & Technology, Engineering or Chemistry). Applicants who are predicted to achieve the Minimum entry requirements are encouraged to apply and will be considered.
Adjusted: BB (Good performance required in Mathematics)
Applicants who meet one or more Widening Participation criteria and who are predicted to achieve a good performance in Mathematics and one other subject may be made an Adjusted offer of entry.
More information on our definition of Standard, Minimum and Adjusted entry qualifications.
International Baccalaureat
Minimum of 32 points including Mathematics and Physics at HL (6 or above).
Irish Leaving Certificate
Five subjects at Higher, with 3 at H2 and 2 at H3. H2 or above in Mathematics and H3 or above in Physics required.
FOR CHEMICAL & PETROLEUM ENGINEERING
Please note: for entry to Chemical and Petroleum Engineering an SQA Higher or GCE A Level or equivalent qualification in Chemistry is required for entry to year 1, in addition to the general Engineering requirements.
SQA Highers
Standard: BBBB (Mathematics and Physics or Engineering Science required*)
Applicants who achieve the Standard entry requirements over S4 and S5 will be made either an unconditional or conditional offer of admission.
Minimum: BBC (Good performance required in Mathematics and Physics*)
Applicants who have achieved BBC at Higher and meet one of the widening participation criteria above are encouraged to apply and are guaranteed an unconditional offer for MA, BSc and BEng degrees.
Adjusted: BB (Good performance required in Mathematics*)
Applicants who have achieved BB at Higher, and who meet one of the widening participation criteria above are encouraged to apply and are guaranteed an adjusted conditional offer for MA, BSc and BEng degrees.
We would expect to issue a conditional offer asking for one additional C grade at Higher.
* These subjects can be either held at the time of application or be achieved during the appropriate admissions cycle.
Foundation Apprenticeship: One FA is equivalent to a Higher at A. It cannot replace any required subjects.
More information on our definition of Standard, Minimum and Adjusted entry qualifications.
A LEVELS
Standard: BBC*. Applicants who are predicted to achieve the Standard entry requirements are encouraged to apply and may be made an offer of admission.
Minimum: BCC* Applicants who are predicted to achieve the Minimum entry requirements are encouraged to apply and will be considered.
Adjusted: CCC (Good performance required in Mathematics)
Applicants who meet one or more Widening Participation criteria and who are predicted to achieve a good performance in Mathematics and one other subject may be made an Adjusted offer of entry.
More information on our definition of Standard, Minimum and Adjusted entry qualifications.
International Baccalaureat
Minimum of 32 points including Mathematics and Physics at HL (6 or above).
Irish Leaving Certificate
Five subjects at Higher, with 3 at H2 and 2 at H3. H2 or above in Mathematics and H3 or above in Physics required.
FOR CHEMICAL & PETROLEUM ENGINEERING
Please note: for entry to Chemical and Petroleum Engineering an SQA Higher or GCE A Level or equivalent qualification in Chemistry is required for entry to year 1, in addition to the general Engineering requirements.
The information displayed in this section shows a shortened summary of our entry requirements. For more information, or for full entry requirements for Engineering degrees, see our detailed entry requirements section.
To study for an Undergraduate degree at the University of Aberdeen it is essential that you can speak, understand, read, and write English fluently. The minimum requirements for this degree are as follows:
IELTS Academic:
OVERALL - 6.0 with: Listening - 5.5; Reading - 5.5; Speaking - 5.5; Writing - 6.0
TOEFL iBT:
OVERALL - 78 with: Listening - 17; Reading - 18; Speaking - 20; Writing - 21
PTE Academic:
OVERALL - 59 with: Listening - 59; Reading - 59; Speaking - 59; Writing - 59
Cambridge English B2 First, C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency:
OVERALL - 169 with: Listening - 162; Reading - 162; Speaking - 162; Writing - 169
Read more about specific English Language requirements here.
The University of Aberdeen International Study Centre offers preparation programmes for international students who do not meet the direct entry requirements for undergraduate study. Discover your foundation pathway here.
You will be classified as one of the fee categories below.
Fee category | Cost |
---|---|
RUK | £9,535 |
Tuition Fees for 2025/26 Academic Year | |
EU / International students | £24,800 |
Tuition Fees for 2025/26 Academic Year | |
Self-funded international students commencing eligible undergraduate programmes in 2025/26 will receive a £6,000 tuition waiver for every year of their programme - See full terms and conditions | |
Home Students | £1,820 |
Tuition Fees for 2025/26 Academic Year |
Funding may be available from the Society of Petroleum Engineers.
Students from England, Wales and Northern Ireland, who pay tuition fees may be eligible for specific scholarships allowing them to receive additional funding. These are designed to provide assistance to help students support themselves during their time at Aberdeen.
View all funding options in our Funding Database.
Equipped with a balanced portfolio of knowledge on the full lifecycle of hydrocarbon production, graduates from this discipline are highly sought after by a range of companies; from major operators and multinational service providers to small and medium enterprise technology companies. The skills you learn as part of this programme are highly transferable and can lead to careers in the renewable energy sector.
Recent graduate job roles have included:
Recent graduates work at companies such as:
Our Petroleum Engineering degrees are accredited by the Energy Institute (EI) and are your first step towards achieving Chartered Engineer status with the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE).
You will be taught by a range of experts including professors, lecturers, teaching fellows and postgraduate tutors. However, these may be subject to change - see our Student Terms and Conditions page.
Society of Petroleum Engineers, Student Chapter is one of the 230 student chapters around the world and is an excellent opportunity to network with industry and other students from all over the world.
Find out moreTAU (Team Aberdeen University) Racing is a student-run Formula Student team that competes annually at Silverstone. It is made up of students from a variety of disciplines and helps develop excellent and highly-relevant career skills.
The University is home to a broad range of student societies including professional teams, extra-curricular and subject-focused organisations and purely recreational groups based on a shared interest.
Find out moreDiscover Uni draws together comparable information in areas students have identified as important in making decisions about what and where to study. You can compare these and other data for different degree programmes in which you are interested.