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Explore Graduate Degrees in Earth Systems Science and Engineering

The ESSE program at KAUST offers MSc. and Ph.D. in two specialized degrees: Energy Resources and Petroleum Engineering (ERPE) and Earth Science and Engineering (ErSE). Both degrees are designed to provide students with a solid foundation in Earth Systems Science and Engineering, while allowing for focused specialization in key areas of interest.

The curriculum blends core scientific principles with applied research, equipping graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to advance innovation and technology in this rapidly evolving field.

  • Degrees Offered: MSc. and Ph.D.
  • Speciality: Energy Resources and Petroleum Engineering (ERPE), Earth Science and Engineering (ErSE)
  • Institution: KAUST

ESSE MASTER'S DEGREE PROGRAM

Program Degrees

  • Energy Resources and Petroleum Engineering (ERPE): Focuses on subsurface energy extraction, petroleum geology, carbon sequestration, geothermal energy, and hydrocarbon recovery.
  • Earth Science and Engineering (ErSE): Covers geophysics, geology, climate system science, and the use of machine learning in geosciences.

Mandatory Courses

Core Courses (12 credits)

Students must complete four core courses, which provide a solid foundation in their chosen program area. Examples include:

  • ERPE: Fundamentals of Carbonate Geology, Reservoir Engineering Fundamentals, Carbon Capture and Storage.
  • ErSE: Geophysical Fluid Dynamics, Seismology, Machine Learning in Geoscience.

Elective Courses (9 credits)

Students can tailor their education by selecting elective courses from a wide range of technical subjects.

Research/Capstone Components (15 credits)

The program includes a strong research component, allowing students to engage in cutting-edge scientific investigation and application.

Lab Experience

ESSE students gain hands-on experience through state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, fieldwork, and advanced computational modeling—including access to high-performance computing clusters. The program emphasizes practical skills and prepares students for real-world environmental and energy challenges.

Duration of Study

  • MS (Non-Thesis): Three semesters + one summer session
  • MS (Thesis): Four semesters + one summer session

ESSE Ph.D. DEGREE PROGRAM

Ph.D. Program Degrees

  • Energy Resources and Petroleum Engineering (ERPE): Advanced research in subsurface energy systems, including carbon sequestration, geothermal energy, and enhanced oil recovery.
  • Earth Science and Engineering (ErSE): Research in geophysics, geology, climate modeling, and environmental hazards.

Mandatory Courses

PhD students must complete at least three courses (9 credits), including two 300-level courses tailored to their research focus. These are complemented by significant research components.

Examples of selected courses:

  • ERPE: Advanced Well Testing, Geothermal Systems, Reactive Transport in Geochemistry.
  • ErSE: Advanced Seismic Inversion, Geophysical Fluid Dynamics, Multiscale Modeling of Geological Reservoirs.

Lab and Research Experience

PhD students engage in experimental research utilizing KAUST’s state-of-the-art laboratories and participate in collaborative projects with both industry and academic institutions, gaining practical and impactful research experience.

Duration of Study

PhD: 8 semesters + 4 summer sessions

The information provided above is for general reference only. For the most accurate and up-to-date degree requirements, please consult the official Program Guide.

PROGRAM GUIDE

Visit the KAUST Program Guide for detailed information about our graduate degree options.  The Program Guide provides prospective and current students with comprehensive information on various aspects of the program.

Within the guide, you will find detailed information on program course and credit requirements, placement tests, Ph.D. proposals, dissertation process guidance and the academic year structure.

The Program Guide will serve as the student's roadmap to successfully navigate their academic journey at KAUST and will allow them to make informed decisions about their studies.

View Online ErSE and ERPE Program Guide with Course and Syllabi List

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