Academics
Tailored Curriculum for the Oil and Gas Industry with Applicability Beyond the Industry
Overview
In the past 40 years, the world has succeeded in replacing only about 6.6% of fossil fuels in the global energy mix. Fossil fuels still contributes at least 80% of global energy supply today. Globally, transportation also continues to rely heavily on oil products for nearly 91% of its final energy, down only about 3.5% since 1970. The three main sectors that drive the global economy – energy, transportation, and industrialisation – are all driven predominantly by fossil fuels. But the industry is also responsible for about 45% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. To stay relevant, the industry must digitize to reduce cost and lead the energy transition. Therefore, while the petroleum industry is here to stay, the challenges and priorities of the industry is constantly evolving. At the Department of Petroleum Engineering, KNUST, we have crafted innovative curricular that not only equip our graduates to tackle current industry challenges but also position them to meet the evolving needs of the dynamic energy sector.
Our Teaching Model
We have innovatively crafted a teaching model that serves as the cornerstone of our commitment to producing graduates who are not only well-versed in addressing current industry challenges but are also agile in meeting the evolving demands of the dynamic energy sector. This teaching model stands on four pillars:
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Merit-Based Opportunities: We foster a culture of healthy competition among our students by providing merit-based opportunities including scholarships, coveted internship placements, and international student exchange programs—all earned through individual merit. This approach not only motivates students but also ensures that excellence is recognised and rewarded.
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SPE Recommended Textbooks: To uphold global standards and ensure the highest quality of education, we exclusively utilize SPE (Society of Petroleum Engineers) recommended textbooks for every course in our program. This commitment ensures that our students receive education and insights that align with the best practices recognised internationally within the field of petroleum engineering.
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Strong Industry Involvement: Recognizing the dynamic nature of the industry, we enhance our teaching by integrating strong industry involvement. Approximately 30% of each course is taught by industry visiting lecturers, bringing real-world practical insights and experiences into the classroom. This symbiotic relationship between academia and industry ensures that our students are well-prepared with the latest industry knowledge and trends.
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Practical Code-Based Projects: We go beyond traditional teaching methods by implementing a unique project-based learning approach. Our students actively engage in solving practical problems sourced from our industry partners. At least 30% of these projects necessitate the application of computer programming skills and other information technology capabilities. This hands-on, practical experience not only reinforces theoretical knowledge but also equips our graduates with the technical and problem-solving skills demanded by the industry.
This comprehensive teaching model reflects our dedication to providing a transformative educational experience—one that goes beyond conventional norms and equips our students to thrive in the dynamic and technologically advanced landscape of the local and international energy sector.
Undergraduate Programmes
Currently, the Department runs an undergraduate Petroleum Engineering Programme with an innovative curriculum designed to instil four key skills in our graduates:
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Strong analytical skills
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Robust digital proficiency
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Strong work ethics
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High environmental consciousness
This comprehensive approach ensures that our graduates not only possess technical excellence but are also well-rounded professionals ready to tackle the multifaceted challenges and opportunities within the ever-evolving petroleum industry.
As a proactive response to the need for the petroleum industry to spearhead the energy transition, commencing from the 2024/2025 academic year, the Department will not only continue the well-established BSc. Petroleum Engineering Programme but will also proudly unveil a novel addition: the BSc. Petroleum and Energy Systems Engineering. This strategic initiative is a testament to our commitment to stay at the forefront of industry trends and to prepare our graduates with a comprehensive understanding of the evolving energy landscape. With this dual-program approach, the Department endeavours to produce graduates who are not only adept in traditional petroleum engineering practices but are also equipped to navigate the complexities of the energy transition.
Postgraduate Programmes
In an era marked by dynamic advancements and evolving industry demands, we are thrilled to announce the launch of our postgraduate programmes, beginning in the 2023/2024 academic year. These programmes have been meticulously designed to provide advanced and comprehensive education in the field of Petroleum Engineering.
1. Master of Science (MSc) in Petroleum Engineering (1 Year): Embark on a journey of academic excellence with our one-year MSc program, offering a blend of coursework and an industry-focused project. This program is crafted to equip industry workers with a profound understanding of the latest advancements in Petroleum Engineering, preparing them for leadership roles in the industry.
2. Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Petroleum Engineering (2 Years): Delve into in-depth research and scholarly inquiry with our two-year MPhil program. Rooted in a research-based approach, this program empowers students to contribute valuable insights to the field of Petroleum Engineering. It is an ideal choice for those aspiring to make a substantial impact through rigorous academic exploration.
3. Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Petroleum Engineering (3 Years): For those seeking the pinnacle of academic achievement, our three-year PhD program offers a research-intensive journey. With a focus on original contributions to the field, this program is designed to cultivate the next generation of thought leaders and innovators in Petroleum Engineering.
What Sets Our Postgraduate Programs Apart? Our programs are crafted in collaboration with industry experts, ensuring that the curriculum remains aligned with current industry needs. Whether through coursework, industry projects, or original research, our programs emphasize a commitment to advancing the frontiers of knowledge in Petroleum Engineering. Benefit from access to cutting-edge laboratories, research centres, and technology, providing an immersive and enriching learning environment.
Applications for our postgraduate programs are now open. We invite aspiring candidates who are eager to contribute to the future of Petroleum Engineering to join us on this exciting academic journey. For detailed information, program requirements, and application procedures, please contact the school of postgraduate studies, KNUST.