What's it all about? Become an expert at solving problems and designing technologies that work kilometres underground. Petroleum engineers apply knowledge of chemistry, physics, geology and economics to the discovery, development and production of energy and material resources below the Earth's surface. They're also involved in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. What does it include? Students are taught how to apply practical science to the challenges and problems associated with oil and gas exploration, drilling and production. Major studies include petroleum geology and geophysics, reservoir characterisation, drilling and completion, and oil and gas production. You'll also engage with the socio-political context of the industry. To get you work ready, you'll apply these skills through 60 days of approved industry training. Where will you work? The switch to natural gas, the big investments in liquefied natural gas and the advent of unconventional oil and gas resources mean there is a solid future ahead. You could work in traditional resources or unconventional resources like coal seam gas production, geothermal energy production or carbon dioxide storage. There's also options in financing, banking and legal. Dual degrees: Dual degrees are a great way of graduating with a wider breadth of knowledge, better preparing you for your future career.

Petroleum engineers have a number of career choices. As a graduate, you can work in oil/gas companies or oil service companies in Australia and internationally. Work will be a combination of outdoors and office work if you choose this type of career. Working with computer-generated modelling of reservoirs is another type of career. Once you complete your Petroleum Engineering degree you could work in the oil and gas industries in Australia or around the world in related areas such as economic evaluation, oil and gas law, finance and accounting, environmental assessments and industrial safety.