Information for Prospective Students

Degrees in Energy Resources Engineering

For our graduate students, the department offers Master of Science (M.S.), Engineer (Eng.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees in petroleum engineering and Energy Resources Engineering.

Master of Science
A total of 45 units is required for the M.S. program. There is a research and a non-research option. All students supported by the department, and students who plan to do a Ph.D. must complete the research option. Most students complete the M.S. degree in six quarters or fewer.

Engineer Degree
This degree permits more extensive course work than the master's degree, with an emphasis on professional practice. The degree requires 90 units of course work and research beyond a Master's degree and is normally completed in two to three years.

Doctor of Philosophy
Students without an M.S. (or equivalent) are required to complete an M.S. at Stanford before entering the Ph.D. program. The degree requires 90 units of course work and research beyond a master's degree and usually takes three to four years. The Ph.D. is awarded primarily on the basis of completion of significant, original research.

Learn more about our Academic Programs and Degrees