MSc Petroleum Geoscience
University of Manchester
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( 4.1) View reviews

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Qualification

MSc - Master of Science

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Location

The University of Manchester

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Study mode

Full Time

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Start date

SEP-25

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Duration

12 months

Course info

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Qualification

MSc - Master of Science

Location

The University of Manchester

Study mode

Full time

Start date

SEP-25

Duration

12 months

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Course info

Course descriptionThe Petroleum Geoscience MSc is taught over one calendar year by leading researchers in the field.We will build your knowledge by examining the sedimentary and structural processes that govern the way sedimentary basins fill, and how an understanding of these complex three- dimensional systems can be usefully applied to improve models of petroleum systems in the subsurface.The knowledge and techniques taught at Manchester are also directly applicable to developing subsurface ...Read more

Course description

The Petroleum Geoscience MSc is taught over one calendar year by leading researchers in the field.

We will build your knowledge by examining the sedimentary and structural processes that govern the way sedimentary basins fill, and how an understanding of these complex three- dimensional systems can be usefully applied to improve models of petroleum systems in the subsurface.

The knowledge and techniques taught at Manchester are also directly applicable to developing subsurface technologies in geothermal energy, carbon capture and storage and network gas storage.

You will develop key skills for evaluating subsurface geology, using industry standard software and through working with industry data. You will learn how to evaluate sedimentary basins and develop leads ands prospects, appraise any discovery and finally efficiently and sustainably develop the fields.

The program has close links with industry, including major energy companies, that provide additional input into our courses, deliver some of the content, and are instrumental in providing cutting- edge datasets for investigation as part of the MSc projects.

The Petroleum Geoscience MSc is ideal if you wish to pursue a career in the energy industry working in exploration for oil and gas, and future mitigation measures such as carbon sequestration. These skills are also transferable to other energy industries, such as geothermal and nuclear.

The skills and knowledge you develop will also provide a solid basis for postgraduate research in the fields of sedimentology or basin research.

Aims

  • You will develop knowledge of the tools and techniques used to explore for hydrocarbons and extract them in an efficient manner.
  • You will develop critical awareness of the direction of the energy industry - in particular, academic and applied advances in exploration, development and production technologies.
  • We will teach you the skills to evaluate subsurface geological systems in order to assess value and recovery potential of resources, or as potential repositories for geothermal fluids and for storage of CO2 or other gases.
  • You will learn how to effectively communicate scientific ideas to specialist and non-specialist audiences, through written and spoken presentations.

Coursework and assessment

Assessment is through various methods. Traditional examinations take place in January and May each year, while the majority is through in-course assessment of coursework, practical and project work.

One-third of the program is composed of the Independent Research Project, with assessment based on a written thesis and a presentation made at the end-of-year MSc conference.

Career opportunities

The energy industry is the largest employer of earth science graduates, and employs more than half of our recent graduating students. Good employment prospects exist within the UK and globally in oil and gas companies, service companies, consultancies and government bodies.

In addition, the technical skills in subsurface investigation and quantification taught on the program are directly applicable to employment within the growing areas of CCS (carbon capture and storage), network gas storage, compressed air energy storage, and other extractive industries.

Around one-quarter of our graduates use the research skills gained during the MSc project to continue into PhD study. Many students have the opportunity to work within sponsor energy companies during their MSc project, gaining valuable industrial experience and contacts.

Key stats

WUSCA ranking:
WUSCA student ranking
These are the 2024 rankings, based on ratings given by past and current students.
63/101
CUG Ranking
CUG Ranking
Source: Complete University Guide 2025
22nd
What students say
L
Logan
29 Feb 24

The campus is always busy so you will always run into people you know. There are a lot of different buildings to study in, but the best are often overcrowded. The best aspect of..Read more

S
Smruti
29 Feb 24

More inclusivity and accessibility..Read more

Modules

Modules (Year 1)
IDP Connect

Entry requirements

An upper second class degree or equivalent in Geology, Geophysics, Petroleum Engineering or related discipline. When assessing your academic record we take into account the grades you have achieved, your academic references and the standing of the institution where you studied your qualification.

Tuition fees

Students living in

Domestic

£14,000 per year

This information is updated by IDP Connect, or in some cases the institution directly.
Please note: The fees might vary so please make sure you contact the institution for up to date information.

Students from Domestic

This is the fee you pay if the University is in the same country that you live in (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland)

This is the fee you pay if the University is in the same country that you live in (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland)

£36,000 per year

This information is updated by IDP Connect, or in some cases the institution directly.
Please note: The fees might vary so please make sure you contact the institution for up to date information.

Students from EU

The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from somewhere in the EU.

The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from somewhere in the EU.

£36,000 per year

This information is updated by IDP Connect, or in some cases the institution directly.
Please note: The fees might vary so please make sure you contact the institution for up to date information.

Students from International

The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from a country outside the EU.

The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from a country outside the EU.

IDP Connect

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Uni info

University of Manchester
Oxford Road Manchester M13 9PL United Kingdom
Nearest train station: Manchester Piccadilly  0.3 miles away
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