In an era of rising oil prices, many people are starting to look for alternative options. How is oil formed, and why is it so important in our daily lives? The more essential it is, the more in-demand experts in this field become. Many people may not realise that studying oil falls under Engineering, specifically Petroleum Engineering. In this article, One Education introduces Petroleum Engineering programmes in Australia and explains why this field matters in today’s world

Why study Petroleum Engineering?

• High demand for skilled professionals: The sector continues to grow, offering strong job security. According to the Australian Industry Energy Transition Initiative, the renewable energy sector is expected to require an additional 59,300 workers by 2030 and around 194,000 by 2050
• High earning potential: This field is often ranked among the highest-paying undergraduate degrees
• Global career opportunities: As a global industry, petroleum engineering offers opportunities to work in various international locations
• Technological innovation: The field increasingly integrates AI, machine learning, and advanced computational tools for drilling and reservoir management
• Diverse career paths: Graduates can pursue roles such as Drilling Engineer or Production Engineer

Top universities for Petroleum Engineering in Australia

1. Curtin University

Master of Professional Engineering (major in Petroleum Engineering)

Curtin University is ranked 4th in Australia and 32nd globally for Petroleum Engineering by QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026

For the Master of Professional Engineering (major in Petroleum Engineering) at Curtin University, the programme focuses on applying engineering techniques to new challenges, helping students develop practical skills in problem-solving, understanding operational limitations, error analysis, and validation of engineering tools.

This programme provides in-depth technical knowledge in exploration, drilling, production, and operations of both conventional and unconventional oil and gas resources. Students are encouraged to actively participate in leading the development and implementation of engineering solutions that address both industry and societal needs.

During the programme, students will complete at least 12 weeks of professional engineering practice. In the final year, they will undertake a major research project, integrating and applying the knowledge and skills gained throughout the course.

Graduates of this programme can pursue careers as petroleum engineers in the resources industry, service companies, government agencies, as well as legal and regulatory sectors.

Career opportunities:

• Reservoir Engineer
• Drilling Engineer
• Production/Subsurface Engineer

Duration: 2 years
Entry requirements: Engineering background required
IELTS: 6.0 (no band below 6.0)
Tuition fee 2026: AUD 49,026 per year (~1,127,598 THB)

2. UNSW Sydney

Master of Engineering Science (Geoenergy & Geostorage)

UNSW Sydney is ranked #1 in Australia and #13 globally for Petroleum Engineering in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026. Its Faculty of Engineering is also ranked #1 in Australia and #25 in the world for Engineering and Technology. Additionally, all UNSW engineering schools are placed within the Top 50 globally, with two subjects ranked in the Top 10 worldwide. This programme focuses on new technologies and sustainable solutions for climate change. It covers areas such as carbon capture and storage, hydrogen storage, and geothermal energy. Students develop skills in Reservoir Engineering, Geomechanics, and Environmental Science, along with research and innovation capabilities.

For the Master of Engineering Science (Geoenergy & Geostorage) at UNSW Sydney, the programme is designed to expose students to emerging technologies and sustainable solutions to address climate change. As geoenergy plays an increasingly important role in the global energy transition, students will develop essential skills to tackle major global challenges such as climate change. Geoenergy & Geostorage is a highly innovative field closely linked to petroleum engineering, with a focus on the sustainable use of Earth’s resources—such as carbon capture and storage, hydrogen or seasonal energy storage, and the extraction of heat, energy, or brine from underground. This master’s programme builds on traditional petroleum engineering skills, covering areas such as Reservoir Engineering, Geomechanics, and environmental science. Australia’s gas, petroleum, mining, and minerals industries continue to play a vital role in the national economy. Students will study both disciplinary core subjects to strengthen technical knowledge and technical management subjects to enhance professional communication and analytical skills. The programme also includes a research project as part of its enquiry-based learning approach. Alternatively, students may take the “Launching a Startup” course, which equips them with the skills needed to develop and commercialise innovative ideas successfully.

Career opportunities

• Carbon Capture and Storage Engineer
• Geothermal Energy Specialist
• Petroleum Engineer
• Reservoir Engineer
• Environmental Consultant
• Sustainable Energy Advisor
• Energy Systems Analyst

Duration: 1–2 years (depending on background)
Entry requirements: Engineering background required
IELTS: 6.5 (no band below 6.0)
Tuition fee 2026: AUD 61,000 per year (~1,403,000 THB)

ℹ️ Tuition fees are calculated based on an exchange rate of 1 AUD = 23 THB as of April 2026

Interested in Studying Petroleum Engineering in Australia ?

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