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B-TECH in Petroleum Engineering at Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines), Dhanbad
Dhanbad, Jharkhand
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About the Specialization
What is Petroleum Engineering at Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines), Dhanbad Dhanbad?
This Petroleum Engineering program at IIT ISM Dhanbad focuses on equipping students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills essential for the oil and gas industry, a critical sector for India''''s energy security. The curriculum covers the entire value chain from exploration to production, emphasizing sustainable and efficient hydrocarbon resource management, aligning with the nation''''s growing energy demands and technological advancements in the field.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring engineers passionate about the energy sector and geological sciences. It caters to fresh graduates seeking entry into upstream and midstream oil and gas operations, as well as professionals looking to specialize in areas like reservoir engineering, drilling, or production. Candidates with strong analytical skills and an interest in geology, fluid mechanics, and thermodynamics will thrive in this challenging yet rewarding field.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India''''s leading oil and gas companies (ONGC, Reliance, Cairn India) and international firms operating in the region. Roles range from reservoir engineer to drilling supervisor, with entry-level salaries typically starting from INR 8-15 LPA, growing significantly with experience. The rigorous curriculum also prepares students for advanced studies and research opportunities in energy technology.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Engineering Core- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on mastering fundamental subjects like Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Introduction to Computing. These courses form the bedrock for advanced petroleum engineering concepts. Attend all lectures, participate in tutorials, and clarify doubts promptly to ensure a solid understanding.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses for foundational engineering, Problem sets from standard textbooks, Peer study groups, Departmental academic support
Career Connection
A strong grasp of core engineering principles is crucial for solving complex problems in reservoir modeling, fluid dynamics, and process design, which are vital for future roles in R&D or operational engineering.
Develop Basic Programming & Data Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with the Introduction to Computing course and lab work, focusing on C programming. Practice coding challenges and simple algorithm implementations. These skills are increasingly important for data analysis, simulation, and automation in the modern oil and gas industry.
Tools & Resources
Online platforms like HackerRank for basic problems, GeeksforGeeks for concepts and practice, Self-learning Python for data analysis (e.g., NumPy, Pandas), Compiler and IDEs (e.g., Code::Blocks)
Career Connection
Proficiency in programming is highly valued for roles involving reservoir simulation, data analytics for exploration, and developing solutions for operational efficiency in the energy sector.
Engage with the ''''Elements of Petroleum Engineering'''' Early- (Semester 2)
In Semester 2, delve deeply into PE1201 ''''Elements of Petroleum Engineering''''. Complement classroom learning with external research on current industry trends, major oil fields in India, and basic exploration/production concepts. This early exposure builds specific interest and context.
Tools & Resources
Industry magazines (e.g., Oil & Gas Journal), Websites of major Indian oil and gas companies (ONGC, Reliance Industries), Introductory books on petroleum engineering, TED Talks on energy and future fuels
Career Connection
Early understanding of the industry landscape helps in choosing relevant electives, identifying potential internship companies, and forming a clearer career vision in petroleum engineering.
Intermediate Stage
Seek Practical Industry Exposure through Internships- (Summer breaks after Semester 4 and/or Semester 6)
Actively pursue summer internships after 2nd or 3rd year in petroleum companies or related research institutions. This hands-on experience in drilling, production, or geology departments is invaluable for understanding real-world operations and networking with professionals.
Tools & Resources
IIT ISM''''s Training & Placement Cell, LinkedIn for professional networking and job search, Company career portals (ONGC, Oil India, Schlumberger), Alumni network mentorship, Professional societies like SPE (Society of Petroleum Engineers) student chapter
Career Connection
Internships are often a direct pipeline to pre-placement offers, provide practical skills, and differentiate candidates during final placements in the competitive oil and gas job market.
Specialize in Core Petroleum Engineering Areas- (Semester 3-5)
During semesters 3-5, focus intensely on core subjects like Reservoir Engineering, Drilling Technology, Well Logging, and Petroleum Exploration. Understand the interconnectedness of these disciplines. Consider joining student chapters of professional bodies to gain deeper insights and participate in relevant competitions.
Tools & Resources
SPE Student Chapter activities and events, Workshops and seminars by industry experts, Specialized textbooks and research papers, Online courses on Coursera/edX for advanced topics
Career Connection
Deep specialization allows graduates to target specific roles such as Reservoir Engineer, Drilling Engineer, or Geologist, which are highly in demand and offer defined career progression paths.
Develop Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Engage critically with problem-solving in courses like Applied Hydrodynamics and Engineering Thermodynamics. Practice solving complex numerical problems and case studies related to fluid flow, heat transfer, and energy balance in petroleum systems. Participate in technical quizzes and hackathons.
Tools & Resources
Numerical simulation software (e.g., MATLAB, basic Python libraries for numerical methods), Past year question papers and competitive exams, Technical challenges organized by student clubs
Career Connection
Strong analytical skills are fundamental for decision-making in oil field operations, optimizing production, and troubleshooting engineering challenges, leading to roles in technical analysis and project management.
Advanced Stage
Undertake Significant Research or Industry Projects- (Semester 6-8)
Maximize the opportunity of Project Stages I, II, and III. Choose a project related to your area of interest (e.g., Enhanced Oil Recovery, reservoir simulation, offshore technology). Collaborate with faculty, industry experts, or pursue an industry-defined problem. This showcases applied knowledge and research capability.
Tools & Resources
Access to departmental labs and research facilities, Industry-standard simulation software (e.g., Petrel, Eclipse, CMG - if available), Research papers and scientific journals, Mentorship from professors and industry professionals
Career Connection
A strong project acts as a powerful resume builder, demonstrating practical problem-solving skills and domain expertise, which is critical for securing placements and admission to higher studies.
Master Professional Communication and Presentation- (Semester 6-8)
Actively work on enhancing your communication skills, both written and oral, especially during project presentations, comprehensive viva-voce, and technical report writing. Clear communication is vital for conveying complex technical information to diverse teams and stakeholders in the industry.
Tools & Resources
Toastmasters International clubs (if available on campus), Departmental presentation workshops and mock interviews, Practicing presentations with peers and seeking feedback from faculty, Technical writing guides and resources
Career Connection
Effective communication is a key soft skill sought by employers, enabling engineers to lead teams, articulate proposals, and represent their companies, thereby accelerating career growth into managerial roles.
Prepare Strategically for Placements and Higher Education- (Semester 7-8)
Begin placement preparation early, focusing on technical interviews, aptitude tests, and soft skills. For those considering higher education, research universities and prepare for competitive exams like GATE or GRE. Leverage the comprehensive viva-voce to consolidate overall subject knowledge.
Tools & Resources
Placement cell resources and mock interview sessions, Online aptitude test platforms (e.g., Indiabix, PrepInsta), GATE/GRE coaching materials and past papers, Alumni mentorship for career guidance and referrals, University admission portals and counselor support
Career Connection
Thorough preparation directly translates to successful placements in top-tier companies or securing admissions to prestigious postgraduate programs, setting the trajectory for a successful career in the petroleum sector.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- No eligibility criteria specified
Duration: 8 semesters / 4 years
Credits: 170 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PCC1101 | Engineering Graphics | Core, Lab | 3 | Introduction to Engineering Graphics, Orthographic Projections, Sectional Views, Isometric Views, Development of Surfaces, AutoCAD Basics |
| CH1101 | Chemistry | Core | 3 | Atomic Structure and Chemical Bonding, Electrochemistry, Reaction Kinetics, Organic Chemistry Fundamentals, Spectroscopy |
| CH1102 | Chemistry Lab | Core, Lab | 1.5 | Volumetric Analysis, pH-metric Titrations, Conductometric Titrations, Spectrophotometry, Synthesis Experiments |
| CS1101 | Introduction to Computing | Core | 3 | Computer Fundamentals, Programming in C, Data Types and Operators, Control Structures, Functions and Arrays, Pointers and File I/O |
| CS1102 | Introduction to Computing Lab | Core, Lab | 1.5 | C Programming Exercises, Debugging Techniques, Algorithm Implementation, Basic Problem Solving, Data Structures Introduction |
| MA1101 | Mathematics - I | Core | 3 | Differential Calculus, Integral Calculus, Sequences and Series, Multivariable Calculus, Vector Calculus |
| PH1101 | Physics | Core | 3 | Wave Optics, Quantum Mechanics, Solid State Physics, Lasers and Fiber Optics, Semiconductor Physics |
| PH1102 | Physics Lab | Core, Lab | 1.5 | Experimental Physics Methods, Error Analysis, Optics Experiments, Electrical Measurements, Modern Physics Experiments |
| HS1101 | Language and Communication Skill | Core | 2 | Grammar and Vocabulary, Reading Comprehension, Writing Skills, Oral Communication, Presentation Techniques |
| BT1101 | Introduction to Bio-Science and Engineering | Core | 1 | Cells and Biomolecules, Genetics and Heredity, Microbiology Basics, Bioengineering Applications, Environmental Biotechnology |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PE1201 | Elements of Petroleum Engineering | Core | 3 | Origin and Occurrence of Petroleum, Petroleum Exploration Methods, Drilling Operations Fundamentals, Production Methods, Reservoir Engineering Principles, Transportation and Processing |
| ME1201 | Engineering Mechanics | Core | 3 | Statics of Particles and Rigid Bodies, Equilibrium Equations, Friction and its Applications, Dynamics of Particles, Kinematics and Kinetics of Rigid Bodies |
| EE1201 | Basic Electrical Engineering | Core | 3 | DC and AC Circuits Analysis, Network Theorems, Transformers, Basic Electrical Machines, Power Systems Fundamentals |
| EE1202 | Basic Electrical Engineering Lab | Core, Lab | 1.5 | Ohm''''s Law and Kirchhoff''''s Laws, DC and AC Circuit Experiments, Measurements of Electrical Quantities, Transformer Characteristics, Basic Motor Operations |
| MA1201 | Mathematics - II | Core | 3 | Linear Algebra, Ordinary Differential Equations, Partial Differential Equations, Fourier Series, Laplace Transforms |
| EV1201 | Environmental Science | Core | 2 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Climate Change and Global Warming, Waste Management, Environmental Policies and Laws |
| ME1202 | Engineering Drawing | Core, Lab | 1.5 | Orthographic and Isometric Projections, Sectional Views, Assembly Drawings, Machine Element Drawings, Introduction to CAD Software |
| WM1201 | Workshop Practice | Core, Lab | 1.5 | Carpentry and Fitting, Welding Techniques, Machining Operations, Sheet Metal Work, Foundry Practices |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PE1301 | Reservoir Rocks and Fluids | Core | 3 | Properties of Reservoir Rocks, Properties of Reservoir Fluids, Hydrocarbon Phase Behavior, PVT Analysis, Fluid Flow in Porous Media |
| PE1302 | Drilling Technology | Core | 3 | Drilling Rigs and Equipment, Drilling Fluids, Casing and Cementing, Well Control, Directional Drilling, Drilling Optimization |
| PE1303 | Drilling Technology Lab | Core, Lab | 1.5 | Drilling Fluid Properties, Mud Density and Viscosity, Filtration Tests, Cement Slurry Tests, Core Sample Analysis |
| PE1304 | Applied Geophysics | Core | 3 | Seismic Exploration Methods, Gravity and Magnetic Methods, Electrical and Electromagnetic Methods, Well Logging Principles, Geophysical Data Interpretation |
| MA1301 | Mathematics - III | Core | 3 | Probability and Statistics, Complex Analysis, Numerical Methods, Optimization Techniques, Transforms and Series |
| MI1301 | Engineering Geology | Core | 3 | Minerals and Rocks, Structural Geology, Geomorphology, Geological Processes, Engineering Applications of Geology |
| PH1301 | Material Science | Core | 3 | Crystalline Structures and Imperfections, Phase Diagrams, Mechanical Properties of Materials, Heat Treatment Processes, Polymers and Composites |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PE1401 | Well Logging | Core | 3 | Principles of Well Logging, Resistivity and Porosity Logs, Gamma Ray and Spontaneous Potential Logs, Sonic and Density Logs, Log Interpretation and Formation Evaluation |
| PE1402 | Engineering Thermodynamics | Core | 3 | First Law of Thermodynamics, Second Law of Thermodynamics and Entropy, Thermodynamic Cycles, Refrigeration and Power Generation, Thermodynamics of Fluids |
| PE1403 | Petroleum Exploration | Core | 3 | Petroleum System Elements, Basin Analysis, Source and Reservoir Rocks, Trapping Mechanisms, Prospect Evaluation, Play Identification |
| PE1404 | Applied Hydrodynamics | Core | 3 | Fluid Flow Equations, Potential Flow, Viscous Flow and Boundary Layer, Turbulence and Flow Regimes, Multiphase Flow in Porous Media |
| PE1405 | Applied Hydrodynamics Lab | Core, Lab | 1.5 | Fluid Mechanics Experiments, Flow Measurement Techniques, Pressure Drop Analysis, Pump Characteristics, Viscosity Measurement |
| PE1406 | Petroleum Geomechanics | Core | 3 | Stress and Strain in Rocks, Rock Strength and Failure Criteria, In-situ Stresses, Wellbore Stability Analysis, Hydraulic Fracturing Principles |
| HS1401 | Entrepreneurship and IP Management | Core | 2 | Entrepreneurial Process, Business Plan Development, Market Analysis and Strategy, Legal Aspects of Business, Intellectual Property Rights, Startup Ecosystem in India |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PE1501 | Petroleum Production Operations | Core | 3 | Well Completion Techniques, Artificial Lift Systems, Well Stimulation Methods, Production Separators, Flow Assurance, Surface Production Facilities |
| PE1502 | Reservoir Engineering - I | Core | 3 | Material Balance Equations, Reservoir Drive Mechanisms, Hydrocarbon Reserve Estimation, Fluid Flow in Reservoirs, Decline Curve Analysis |
| PE1503 | Reservoir Engineering Lab | Core, Lab | 1.5 | Core Porosity and Permeability Measurement, Capillary Pressure Tests, Relative Permeability Experiments, Fluid Viscosity Determination, Wettability Measurement |
| PE1504 | Natural Gas Engineering | Core | 3 | Natural Gas Properties, Gas Flow in Pipelines, Gas Processing and Treatment, Liquefaction of Natural Gas, Gas Hydrates, Gas Storage Technologies |
| PE1505 | Well Testing | Core | 3 | Pressure Transient Analysis, Drawdown and Build-up Tests, Interference Testing, Wellbore Storage and Skin Factor, Well Test Design and Interpretation |
| PE1506 | Drilling & Production Equipment Design | Core | 3 | Drilling Rig Components Design, Drill Bit Selection and Design, Casing Design, Wellhead and Christmas Tree Design, Pump and Separator Design |
| OE/DE - I | Open/Departmental Elective - I | Elective | 3 |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PE1601 | Enhanced Oil Recovery | Core | 3 | Waterflooding and Gas Injection, Chemical EOR Methods, Thermal EOR Processes, Microbial EOR, EOR Project Design and Evaluation |
| PE1602 | Reservoir Simulation | Core | 3 | Numerical Methods for Reservoirs, Finite Difference Method, Fluid Flow Equations in Reservoirs, Grid Systems and Discretization, History Matching, Introduction to Simulation Software |
| PE1603 | Drilling Optimization | Core | 3 | Drilling Hydraulics, Drill Bit Mechanics, Torque and Drag Analysis, Hole Cleaning, Well Trajectory Control, Drilling Cost Optimization |
| PE1604 | Health Safety and Environment in Petroleum Industry | Core | 3 | Risk Assessment and Management, HAZOP Studies, Safety Management Systems, Environmental Impact Assessment, Waste Management in Oil & Gas, Regulatory Compliance |
| PE1605 | Artificial Lift Technology Lab | Core, Lab | 1.5 | Submersible Pump Performance, Gas Lift Operations, Sucker Rod Pump Characteristics, Production Optimization Techniques, Well Diagnostics for Artificial Lift |
| OE/DE - II | Open/Departmental Elective - II | Elective | 3 | |
| PE1606 | Project Stage - I | Project | 1.5 | Project Definition and Scope, Literature Review, Methodology Planning, Preliminary Data Collection, Project Proposal Development |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PE1701 | Petroleum Economics and Project Management | Core | 3 | Petroleum Project Evaluation, Cash Flow Analysis, Risk and Uncertainty Analysis, Investment Decision Making, Project Planning and Scheduling, Project Control and Monitoring |
| PE1702 | Formation Damage | Core | 3 | Causes of Formation Damage, Drilling Fluid Invasion, Fines Migration and Clay Swelling, Paraffin and Asphaltene Deposition, Scale Formation, Remedial Measures and Prevention |
| DE - III | Departmental Elective - III | Elective | 3 | |
| DE - IV | Departmental Elective - IV | Elective | 3 | |
| OE/DE - V | Open/Departmental Elective - V | Elective | 3 | |
| PE1703 | Project Stage - II | Project | 3 | Project Execution and Data Analysis, Experimental Work/Simulation, Result Interpretation, Intermediate Report Writing, Problem-Solving and Troubleshooting |
| PE1704 | Industrial Training | Internship | 1.5 | Practical Industry Experience, Application of Theoretical Knowledge, Exposure to Oil & Gas Operations, Professional Networking, Industrial Report Writing |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PE1801 | Offshore Drilling and Production | Core | 3 | Offshore Platforms and Facilities, Subsea Production Systems, Deepwater Drilling Technologies, Marine Risers, Well Intervention in Offshore, Environmental Challenges in Offshore Operations |
| DE - VI | Departmental Elective - VI | Elective | 3 | |
| OE/DE - VII | Open/Departmental Elective - VII | Elective | 3 | |
| PE1802 | Comprehensive Viva-Voce | Viva-Voce | 3 | Overall Petroleum Engineering Knowledge, Core Concepts Understanding, Problem Solving Ability, Communication Skills, Industry Relevance |
| PE1803 | Project Stage - III | Project | 4.5 | Final Project Development and Implementation, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Results and Discussion, Thesis/Dissertation Writing, Project Presentation and Defense |
