Petroleum engineer: bachelor's in petroleum or another engineering field, internships, optional PE
Petroleum engineers typically need a bachelor's degree in petroleum engineering or a related field such as mechanical, civil or chemical engineering. Employers value internship and co-op experience. No license is needed for entry-level jobs; experienced engineers may earn a PE license.
For: Strong math and physics students who want to work on oil and gas fields, drilling sites and energy projects.
Route 1: Bachelor's in engineering → petroleum engineer Typical
Programs include academic, laboratory and field work in engineering principles, geology and thermodynamics. Some employers prefer an accredited program or a master's.
-
Start here
High school: algebra, geometry, calculus, biology, chemistry, physics
BLS
Petroleum Engineers — How to Become OneU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)- Checked
- 21 Oct 2026
-
About 4 years
Bachelor's in petroleum, mechanical, civil or chemical engineering
Some schools offer a 5-year bachelor's + master's program.
BLS
Petroleum Engineers — How to Become OneU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)- Checked
- 21 Oct 2026
-
During college
Co-op or internship
BLS
Petroleum Engineers — How to Become OneU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)- Checked
- 21 Oct 2026
-
Goal
Entry-level petroleum engineer
Licensure is not required for entry-level positions.
BLS
Petroleum Engineers — How to Become OneU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)- Checked
- 21 Oct 2026
Route 2: Optional: Professional Engineer (PE) license To sign off on projects
A PE can oversee other engineers, sign off on projects and provide services directly to the public.
-
Start here
Engineering bachelor's degree
BLS
Petroleum Engineers — How to Become OneU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)- Checked
- 21 Oct 2026
-
Several years
Relevant work experience
BLS
Petroleum Engineers — How to Become OneU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)- Checked
- 21 Oct 2026
-
Goal
State PE license
Each state issues its own; several require continuing education.
PE license stepsBLS
Petroleum Engineers — How to Become OneU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)- Checked
- 21 Oct 2026
Where to go next
Every career page in this cluster: entry, license, BLS pay and outlook.
What the job is, BLS pay and job outlook, and how to become one.