Study Earth Systems Science and Engineering at KAUST

 

The Earth Systems Science and Engineering (ESSE) program conducts fundamental and applied research to support the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals. The program aims to lead the advancement of sustainable environmental solutions in Saudi Arabia and beyond by strengthening research excellence, driving impact aligned with national priorities, and contributing to the Saudi Human Capability Development Program through education and training. 

WHY JOIN US?

Earth Systems Science and Engineering program at KAUST is at the forefront of addressing global challenges related to energy, environmental sustainability, and climate science. By merging the strengths of the Earth Science and Engineering (ErSE) and Energy Resources and Petroleum Engineering (ERPE) programs, ESSE offers students a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to solving some of the world’s most pressing issues. With access to state-of-the-art facilities, leading research initiatives, and strategic industry partnerships, students are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to deliver impactful innovation.

 

Unique Geological and Geographic Advantages
KAUST's location provides access to distinct geological and environmental features, offering an unparalleled natural laboratory for studying Earth systems, marine ecosystems, and energy resources. Our students and researchers benefit from hands-on experience in one of the world’s most unique and ecologically significant regions. 
Our research is aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the Research, Development, and Innovation Authority (RDIA) pillars. ESSE focuses on energy transition applications, environmental sustainability, and cutting-edge advancements in Earth sciences. The program is deeply involved in industry collaborations with Aramco, NEOM, Red Sea Global, and ACWA Power, among others, ensuring that students' research has tangible global impact. 
The ESSE program bridges the gap between multiple disciplines, integrating expertise in geology, geophysics, geochemistry, geomechanics, reservoir engineering, climate science, and machine learning in geosciences. This interdisciplinary approach enables students to develop holistic solutions to challenges such as carbon sequestration, geothermal energy, underground hydrogen storage, and climate modeling. Students gain hands-on experience through computational modeling, laboratory experiments, and field studies, preparing them for careers in both academia and industry. 
Our program delivers a cutting-edge curriculum designed to equip students with advanced technological expertise and a collaborative mindset. With a strong emphasis on both international and Saudi talent, we prepare graduates for impactful careers in academia, industry, and beyond. 
ESSE promotes a collaborative environment where students, faculty, and researchers engage in interdisciplinary work to tackle critical energy and environmental challenges. Our faculty members are dedicated to mentoring students, and our students benefit from partnerships with global research institutions, industries, and government agencies. The strong sense of community within ESSE ensures that students have access to continuous support and networking opportunities. 
KAUST offers access to state-of-the-art laboratories and a dynamic community of leading researchers. Our distinguished faculty members are committed to advancing both fundamental and applied science, ensuring that students receive the mentorship and resources necessary to excel. 

“The ESSE program represents a new era of integrated research and education, providing students with the tools to drive innovation in energy and environmental sciences. By joining ESSE, you become part of a global community dedicated to making a meaningful impact on the planet.”

ACADEMIC OVERVIEW

Earth Systems Science and Engineering

 

The ESSE program offers M.S. and Ph.D. in two distinct degrees: Energy Resources and Petroleum Engineering (ERPE) and Earth Science and Engineering (ErSE). Both degrees are designed to provide students with a strong foundation in Earth systems science and engineering, while allowing them to specialize in areas of interest. The curriculum integrates core scientific principles with applied research, equipping graduates with the necessary skills to advance knowledge and technology in this evolving field. 

ESSE MASTER’S DEGREE PROGRAM

Program Areas Mandatory Courses Lab Experience Duration of Study

Program Areas

  • ERPE: Focuses on subsurface energy extraction, carbon sequestration, geothermal energy, and hydrocarbon recovery. 
  • ErSE: Covers geophysics, geology, climate system science, and machine learning in geosciences. 

Mandatory Courses

  • Core Courses (12 credits): Students must complete four core courses, which provide a solid foundation in the 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) 

Lab Experience

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

Duration of Study

  • M.S. (Non-Thesis): Three semesters + one summer session 
  • M.S. (Thesis): Four semesters + one summer session 

ESSE PhD DEGREE PROGRAM

Program Areas Mandatory Courses Lab Experience Duration of Study

Program Areas

  • ERPE: Advanced research in subsurface energy systems, including carbon sequestration, geothermal energy, and enhanced oil recovery. 
  • ErSE: Research in geophysics, geology, climate modeling, and environmental hazards. 

Mandatory Courses

Ph.D. students must complete at least three courses (9 credits), including two 300-level courses tailored to their research focus, along with significant research components. Examples include: 

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

Lab Experience

Ph.D. students engage in experimental research using KAUST’s state-of-the-art laboratories and participate in collaborative research projects with industry and academic partners. 

Duration of Study

    8 semesters + 4 summer sessions. 

The information provided above is for general reference only. For detailed and current degree requirements, please refer to the Program Guide.

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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 your roadmap to successfully navigate your academic journey at KAUST and will allow you to make informed decisions about your studies. 

Research

In PSE, we tackle the world’s most critical environmental and energy challenges by fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and leveraging advanced technologies to enhance ecosystem resilience, secure food and water, and advance human health.

Explore Our Research

Meet Our ESSE
Faculty

Explore the experts advancing research and innovation in Earth Systems Science and Engineering at KAUST.

Our Faculty

CONTACT US

Contact the PSE team: 

Drop-in hours: 

Sunday and Tuesday, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. / Wednesday 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. / Thursday 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

 

 

Hussein

Hussein Hoteit

Professor, Energy Resources and Petroleum Engineering
Program Chair

hussein.hoteit@kaust.edu.sa

vecteezy_person-photo-placeholder-woman-default-avatar-profile-icon_
Karima Alaseef

Graduate Program Coordinator

Bldg. 9, L.4, R.4365

karema.alaseef@kaust.edu.sa