Integrated Petroleum Geoscience (Taught)

Running since 1973, the MSc Integrated Petroleum Geoscience programme is internationally regarded as one of the top vocational training pathways into the energy industry. Based in the heart of the UK energy sector, IPG provides world-renowned training in the practical and technical skills required by the global hydrocarbon exploration and production industry, with input and support from major oil and gas operators.

The MSc Integrated Petroleum Geoscience equips you with the knowledge and skills to understand the subsurface and hydrocarbons stored there.

IPG receives detailed input and support from the energy industry, ensuring it remains current and relevant, particularly as we move forward toward net-zero. The curriculum focuses on all aspects of upstream geoscience, including exploration, field appraisal and development, maximising recovery from mature fields, as well as considerations for repurposing depleted fields for carbon storage.

Hands-on field-based study is a crucial part of our geology teaching, and this programme is no exception, with UK and international field trips where you will apply and develop your subsurface analysis and core logging skills.

The close ties between the University of Aberdeen and the energy industry mean our students can benefit from industry training and projects, as well as professional mentorship and career networking opportunities from companies such as Equinor, Harbour Energy, Neo Energy, Baker Hughes, Hess and Shell.

Our approach and teaching methods also aim to create a close parallel to the way the energy industry works, further enhancing teamwork and communication skills, to allow you to transition from education to employment upon graduation.

The course content recognises the increasingly diverse backgrounds of the students, as more first degree courses are modularised with significant non-geological components. The course content is designed as far as possible to fill in the gaps for such students, although we rely on the students to work at making up for their own weaknesses, under our guidance. Numeracy skills are important; we advise students to assess their own needs for additional training.

Practical work, projects and reports will be assessed continuously throughout the programme. Examinations are held in December and April on the preceding term’s curriculum. An oral examination will be held. Candidates will be expected to present a final report on a relevant and approved major topic.