

M-TECH in Petroleum Engineering at Dibrugarh University


Dibrugarh, Assam
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Petroleum Engineering at Dibrugarh University Dibrugarh?
This M.Tech Petroleum Technology program at Dibrugarh University focuses on advanced concepts in upstream and downstream petroleum operations, reservoir management, and exploration. Given India''''s increasing energy demand, especially for oil and gas, this program addresses the critical need for skilled professionals in exploration, drilling, production, and refining sectors. It emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical applications relevant to the Indian energy landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for engineering graduates, particularly those with a B.E./B.Tech in Petroleum, Chemical, or Mechanical Engineering, seeking to specialize in the oil and gas industry. It also caters to M.Sc. graduates in related sciences like Geology or Physics aiming for a career transition into petroleum exploration and production. Professionals already in the energy sector looking to upgrade their skills in advanced petroleum technologies would also find this program beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect promising career paths in leading oil and gas companies, both public sector (ONGC, IOCL, OIL) and private (Reliance, Cairn Energy) in India. Roles include Reservoir Engineer, Drilling Engineer, Production Engineer, and Process Engineer. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 6-10 LPA, growing significantly with experience. The program equips students with expertise to contribute to India''''s energy security and sustainable petroleum practices.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Engineering Mathematics & Core Petroleum Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Focus diligently on advanced engineering mathematics as it underpins all subsequent petroleum engineering concepts. Simultaneously, master the core principles of drilling, reservoir, and production engineering. Regularly practice problem-solving, leverage textbook examples, and clarify doubts promptly with faculty.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses on advanced engineering math, Standard textbooks like Craft & Hawkins (Reservoir), Bourgoyne (Drilling), Beggs (Production), Peer study groups
Career Connection
A solid foundation in these areas is crucial for understanding complex industry problems and cracking technical rounds in campus placements for roles like Jr. Reservoir or Drilling Engineer.
Develop Hands-on Software & Lab Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in all practical and computational labs. Gain proficiency in industry-relevant software for reservoir simulation (e.g., PETREL, CMG - if available), well logging (e.g., Techlog), and data analysis. Understand the theoretical basis behind experimental procedures and software outputs.
Tools & Resources
University labs, Access to licensed petroleum software, Online tutorials, Departmental workshops on specific software applications
Career Connection
Practical skills in simulation and data interpretation are highly valued by recruiters for roles in E&P companies, differentiating candidates in the competitive job market.
Engage with Industry Insights and Current Trends- (Semester 1-2)
Attend departmental seminars, guest lectures by industry experts, and petroleum-related webinars. Read industry journals, news articles, and reports (e.g., from ONGC, BP, ExxonMobil) to understand current challenges, emerging technologies, and the Indian energy scenario.
Tools & Resources
SPE (Society of Petroleum Engineers) student chapter activities, Industry magazines (e.g., Hydrocarbon Asia), LinkedIn groups focusing on oil & gas
Career Connection
Staying updated on industry trends demonstrates proactive learning and provides valuable talking points during interviews, showing a broader understanding of the domain.
Intermediate Stage
Strategic Elective Selection for Specialization- (Semester 3)
Thoughtfully choose elective subjects that align with your career aspirations, be it EOR, HSE, Offshore, or Unconventional Hydrocarbons. Deep dive into the chosen area, pursuing additional readings and projects beyond the curriculum.
Tools & Resources
Faculty advisors, Alumni network, Industry reports, Online advanced courses (Coursera, edX) in specific elective areas
Career Connection
Specializing strategically strengthens your resume for specific roles (e.g., EOR Specialist) and showcases expertise to potential employers during campus recruitment drives.
Initiate and Excel in Dissertation Phase I- (Semester 3)
Begin your dissertation work early. Identify a research problem with industry relevance, conduct a thorough literature review, and establish a robust methodology. Maintain regular communication with your supervisor and present progress effectively.
Tools & Resources
University library databases (Scopus, Web of of Science), Research methodology books, Academic writing resources, Supervisor guidance
Career Connection
A well-executed dissertation enhances research skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities, which are highly regarded for R&D roles and advanced technical positions.
Network Actively and Seek Internships- (Semester 3)
Actively participate in professional events, conferences, and workshops (e.g., SPE events). Build connections with faculty, alumni, and industry professionals. Proactively seek internship opportunities in oil and gas companies to gain practical experience and industry exposure.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, University career services, Professional body memberships (SPE), Networking events
Career Connection
Networking often leads to internship and placement opportunities. Internships provide invaluable experience, making you more employable and often leading to pre-placement offers.
Advanced Stage
Master Dissertation Phase II and Thesis Writing- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant effort to completing your experimental work, rigorously analyzing data, and synthesizing findings into a comprehensive thesis. Focus on strong scientific communication, both in writing and oral presentations (viva-voce).
Tools & Resources
Academic writing workshops, Thesis templates, Statistical software, Presentation skills training, Mock viva sessions
Career Connection
A strong dissertation showcases your ability to conduct independent research and contribute original work, a significant advantage for R&D positions and higher studies (Ph.D.).
Intensive Placement Preparation- (Semester 4)
Systematically prepare for campus placements by honing your technical knowledge, quantitative aptitude, logical reasoning, and communication skills. Practice mock interviews, group discussions, and aptitude tests. Tailor your resume and cover letter to specific company requirements.
Tools & Resources
University placement cell, Online aptitude test platforms (indiabix.com), Mock interview sessions, Career counseling
Career Connection
Dedicated preparation maximizes your chances of securing a desirable job offer from top-tier petroleum companies, ensuring a smooth transition from academics to a professional career.
Explore Entrepreneurship and Alternative Career Paths- (Semester 4)
While traditional roles are common, explore opportunities in petroleum technology startups, consulting, or energy transition roles. Consider developing skills in areas like data science applied to energy or renewable energy integration if entrepreneurial interests exist.
Tools & Resources
Startup incubation cells, Business plan competitions, Entrepreneurship workshops, Industry mentorship
Career Connection
Broadening your perspective beyond conventional roles can open up innovative career paths, allowing you to contribute to the evolving energy landscape and potentially create your own ventures.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.E./B.Tech. in Petroleum Engineering/Petroleum Technology/Chemical Engineering/Mechanical Engineering/Civil Engineering from a recognized university with at least 55% marks or equivalent CGPA. Candidates with B.E./B.Tech. in other relevant disciplines or M.Sc. in Physics/Chemistry/Geology/Applied Geology/Geophysics/Exploration Geophysics/Material Science/Environmental Science with at least 55% marks or equivalent CGPA and having qualified GATE/NET/equivalent National level examinations are also eligible, subject to clearance of a Departmental Admission Test. GATE qualification is preferable.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 78 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40% (for Theory subjects), 60% (for Practical subjects), 100% (for Dissertation), External: 60% (for Theory subjects), 40% (for Practical subjects), 0% (for Dissertation)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PTPG 101 | Advanced Engineering Mathematics | Core | 4 | Advanced Calculus, Differential Equations, Vector Calculus, Complex Analysis, Probability & Statistics |
| PTPG 102 | Drilling Engineering | Core | 4 | Drilling Rig Components, Drilling Fluids, Cementing Operations, Directional Drilling, Well Control |
| PTPG 103 | Advanced Reservoir Engineering | Core | 4 | Fluid Flow in Porous Media, Reservoir Characterization, Material Balance Equations, Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR), Reservoir Simulation |
| PTPG 104 | Production Engineering | Core | 4 | Well Completion, Artificial Lift Systems, Production Optimization, Well Stimulation, Surface Production Facilities |
| PTPG 105 | Practical/Computational Petroleum Engineering | Lab | 2 | Reservoir Simulation Software, Well Log Interpretation, Production Data Analysis, Drilling Fluid Tests, Petroleum Software Applications |
| PTPG 106 | Drilling Fluid & Cementing Lab | Lab | 2 | Drilling Fluid Properties, Cement Slurry Design, Rheology Testing, Filtration Loss, Compressive Strength |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PTPG 201 | Petroleum Exploration & Geophysics | Core | 4 | Seismic Reflection, Gravity and Magnetic Surveys, Well Logging, Hydrocarbon Traps, Basin Analysis |
| PTPG 202 | Petroleum Refinery Engineering | Core | 4 | Crude Oil Distillation, Cracking Processes, Reforming, Product Blending, Refinery Economics |
| PTPG 203 | Natural Gas Engineering | Core | 4 | Natural Gas Properties, Gas Transmission, Gas Processing, LNG Technology, Gas Hydrates |
| PTPG 204 | Petroleum Economics & Project Management | Core | 4 | Project Feasibility, Risk Analysis, Investment Appraisal, Oil & Gas Pricing, Project Scheduling |
| PTPG 205 | Petroleum Production & Reservoir Lab | Lab | 2 | Core Analysis, Relative Permeability, Fluid PVT Properties, Artificial Lift System Design, Production Data Acquisition |
| PTPG 206 | Geological & Geophysical Computing Lab | Lab | 2 | Seismic Data Processing, Geological Mapping Software, Well Log Interpretation, Remote Sensing in Petroleum, GIS Applications |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PTPG 301 | Elective-I | Elective | 4 | Enhanced Oil Recovery, Health Safety & Environment, Offshore Engineering, Unconventional Hydrocarbons |
| PTPG 302 | Elective-II | Elective | 4 | Petroleum Industry Safety, Deepwater Exploration, Shale Gas Technology, Reservoir Characterization |
| PTPG 303 | Dissertation (Phase I) | Project | 8 | Literature Review, Problem Identification, Research Methodology, Data Gathering Plan, Preliminary Results Analysis |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PTPG 401 | Dissertation (Phase II) | Project | 18 | Experimental Work, Data Analysis, Thesis Writing, Results Interpretation, Final Presentation & Viva Voce |




