Doctor of Philosophy in Petroleum Engineering
University of North Dakota

Program Details

The online Doctor of Philosophy in Petroleum Engineering offers an inside track to participate in research projects that align with industry needs and prepare students to make significant industry contributions upon graduation. The Department of Petroleum Engineering is backed by support from the state and the oil industry. The curriculum helps students become innovative, critical thinkers who are prepared to solve current problems and build technology that will unlock tomorrow’s hydrocarbon reservoirs.

Students can perform research such as:

  • Geomechanics, production, and reservoir studies of hydraulic fracturing
  • Re-fracturing for optimization from unconventional shales
  • Data-driven modeling in unconventional reservoirs

Career opportunities for graduates include jobs in computer simulation, drilling, processing, petroleum exploration, equipment design, and more. An Industry Advisory Council helps refine the curriculum. Students have access to small class sizes, an open-door policy among faculty, world-class labs, cutting-edge simulators, networking opportunities, and more.

Learning Pace

Institution-Paced

% Online

Mostly Online

School Accreditation & Licensing

University of North Dakota is accredited by:

Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

Program Requirements & Restrictions

Minimum Education

Bachelor Degree

Recommended GPA

2.75 or above (4.0 scale)

Admission Tests

GRE, Proof of English Language Proficiency (International Students)

Application Requirements

Official College Transcript(s), Recommendation/Reference Letter(s), Statement of Purpose/Intent

Additional Info

  • Requires a degree in engineering or a related field
  • GRE waived for applicants holding an ABET-accredited degree
  • Requires a two-day visit to campus each semester