Course Description

This course is an introduction to petroleum geology – a kind of “Essentials of Petroleum Geology” - for geology, geophysics, and engineering students. My objectives in the course are to provide you with a basic understanding of the concepts and methods in petroleum exploration and development found in today’s major integrated oil companies. Among the topics we will cover are: the “petroleum system”, origin, and migration of hydrocarbons, reservoirs, traps, and seals, sedimentary basins, and some of the most commonly used methods in exploration and development. Laboratory exercises will supplement lectures and offer practical experience with methods and concepts.

Although reading the assigned material is sufficient for basic understanding, students are expected to take notes in all classes and to ask questions in class.  Significant numbers of exam questions may be based on class discussions and notes.