Master of Science in Petrophysics

Explore the Science Beneath the Surface

Petrophysics is the study of the physical and chemical properties of subsurface reservoirs, including rocks and fluids. As the first program of its kind in North America , this degree equips students with the knowledge and skills to characterize subsurface formations with direct applications in petroleum exploration and production.

This multidisciplinary program integrates Geology, Physics, and Natural Gas Engineering, combining strong theoretical foundations with hands-on research experience.

Program Highlights

• First Petrophysics program in North America
• Industry-focused curriculum
• Multidisciplinary training (Geology, Physics, Engineering)
• Research opportunities with thesis or project options
• Preparation for careers in energy, geoscience, and environmental sectors

Available Courses

Physics

• PHYS 5382 - Exploration Geophysics
• PHYS 5385 - Seismology
• PHYS 5388 - Borehole Geophysics

Geology

• GEOL 5305 - Graduate Research Project
• GEOL 5310 - Advanced Topics in Geology
• GEOL 5101/5201/5303 - Research Problems I, II, III

Natural Gas Engineering

• NGEN 5303 - Advanced Petrophysics
• NGEN 5312 - Pressure Transient Analysis
• NGEN 5363 - Advanced Reservoir Engineering
• NGEN 5387 - Quantitative Well Logging Analysis

Additional courses such as Reservoir Geomechanics and Reservoir Simulation may also be offered.

Degree Options

• Plan I (Thesis): 24 credit hours + 6 credit hours (research proposal & thesis)
• Plan II (Non-Thesis): 30 credit hours + short research project

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Geoscience, Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry, or a related field

Scholarships & Funding

• Merit-based scholarships (up to $1,000/year)
• Eligibility for in-state tuition rates
• Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTAs) available (include in-state tuition benefits)

Internship Opportunities

Potential opportunities with industry partners such as:

• EOG Resources
• Heddington Oil
• Hilcorp
• Freeport-McMoRan
• SoCalGas
• Canacol Energy

Application Information

• English Proficiency: TOEFL/IELTS required for international students (with exemptions available)
• Deadlines:
• Fall (International): June 1 (priority for funding)
• Fall (Domestic): July 15
• Spring (International): October 1

Program Duration

• Typically 1-2 years , depending on course load and degree option

Contact Information

• Graduate Admissions: [email protected]
• Program Coordinator: Dr. Subbarao Yelisetti ( [email protected] )

Useful Links

Build expertise in subsurface exploration and position yourself for a high-impact career in the energy industry.