Petroleum Engineering Career Guide: Roles, Salary & Future Scope

Akansha BishtSenior Executive
Production Engineering is a branch of Mechanical Engineering that deals with the different aspects of production and quality control. Several diploma, undergraduate (UG), post-graduate (PG) and PhD programmes are available in Production Engineering. But most colleges in India only offer UG and PG courses. The syllabus of these courses mainly deals with the principles of the manufacturing process and how different concepts of Science, Maths, Physics and Chemistry are related to it. The students can work in research labs, manufacturing industries, sports, health, medicine and many other other sectors after completing a course in Production Engineering.
List of Subjects in Production Engineering
Check the list of typical core subjects and typical elective subjects below:
Typical Core Subjects for Production Engineering
|
Subject Title |
Subject Details |
|---|---|
|
Technical English |
Formal letter writing, dialogue writing, and basic communication skills are taught in this subject. |
|
Engineering Mathematics-I |
It gives exposure to matrix algebra methods required in production engineering. |
|
Engineering Physics |
Electromagnetic waves, mechanics, optics, lasers, and other concepts are included. |
|
Engineering Chemistry |
The concepts like polymers, nanomaterials, energy conversion, etc., are covered in this subject. |
|
Engineering Graphics |
This subject teaches students to draw objects, solids, and the construction of machines. |
|
Professional Communication |
It imparts the communication skills relevant to the profession of production engineering. |
|
Problem Solving & Python Programming |
It gives insights into Python Programming and its use to solve industrial problems. |
|
Basics of Electrical & Electronic Engineering |
The basic concepts of electrical and electronic engineering are covered in this subject. |
|
Engineering Mechanics |
It gives insights on statics of particles, equilibrium of rigid objects, distributed forces, etc. |
|
Material Science |
The concepts related to composite material science and engineering are covered in this subject. |
|
Numerical Methods |
The mathematical basics of numerical techniques are taught in this subject. |
|
Mechanics of Solids |
The behaviour of solid materials in different conditions is analysed. |
|
Thermodynamics & Thermal Engineering |
The basic rules of Thermodynamics and their applications in real-world engineering are covered. |
|
Fluid Mechanics & Fluid Machines |
The basic properties of fluids and their applications in different machines are explained. |
|
Environmental Science |
The impact of production methods on the environment is covered in this subject. |
|
Foundry & Welding Technology |
The basic rules of casting and welding are described. |
|
Engineering Materials |
The microstructural properties of metals are described in it. |
|
Kinematics & Dynamics of Machines |
The different types of synthesis and mechanisms are covered in it. |
|
Metal Forming |
Metal forming process and related concepts are explained in this subject. |
|
CNC Machines |
This subject talks about CNC machines, their functions and structure in detail. |
|
Engineering Metrology |
Metrology instruments used for angular and linear measurements are taught through this subject. |
|
CAD Analysis |
The basic concepts and applications of Computer-Aided Design, i.e., CAD, are covered in this subject. |
|
Mechatronics for Automation |
Mechatronics sensors, actuators, and systems are covered. |
|
Computer-Aided Manufacturing Systems |
It gives knowledge of Computer-Aided Manufacturing Systems to the students. |
Typical Elective Subjects for Production Engineering
|
Subject Title |
Subject Details |
|---|---|
|
Additive Manufacturing |
The basics of Additive Manufacturing and its applications in different fields are discussed in this subject. |
|
Tool Design |
The concepts like dies, jigs, fixtures, etc., are included in this subject. |
|
Unconventional Machining Process |
The applications of unconventional machining processes and tools are described. |
|
Supply Chain Management |
The drivers of the supply chain and their importance are explained here. |
|
Theory of Metal Cutting |
The rules of metal cutting are introduced in this subject. |
|
Industrial Management |
Inventory management, financial management, and other aspects are covered. |
|
Modern Concepts in manufacturing |
It introduces concepts like lean manufacturing to improve the quality of products. |
|
Materials Procurement Management |
It talks about how to manage the procurement of materials needed for production. |
Production Engineering Detailed Syllabus
The syllabus for Production Engineering can vary as per the course. Also, different colleges, universities, and institutes might introduce different curriculum for focusing on certain aspects of Production Engineering. A detailed overview of BE in Production Engineering is given below.
|
Semester |
Core/Elective |
Subject Title |
Subject Details |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Semester 1 |
Core |
Technical English |
The basics of oral and written communication, formal letter writing, etc., are covered in this subject. |
|
Semester 1 |
Core |
Engineering Mathematics-I |
The mathematical applications in engineering are discussed here. |
|
Semester 1 |
Core |
Engineering Physics |
Electromagnetic waves, mechanics, oscillations, basic quantum mechanics, etc., are explained here. |
|
Semester 1 |
Core |
Engineering Chemistry |
This subject focuses on nanochemistry, polymer chemistry, spectroscopy, and related concepts. |
|
Semester 1 |
Core |
Engineering Graphics |
It teaches the students to draw different machines and equipment. |
|
Semester 2 |
Core |
Professional Communication |
The ethics of professionalism in communication are explained here. |
|
Semester 2 |
Core |
Problem Solving & Python Programming |
Industrial problems through computer programming using Python language are covered here. |
|
Semester 2 |
Core |
Basics of Electrical & Electronic Engineering |
The fundamental concepts in electronics and electrical engineering are explained here. |
|
Semester 2 |
Core |
Engineering Mechanics |
Friction, dynamics of particles, distributed forces, and related concepts are explained here. |
|
Semester 2 |
Core |
Material Science |
It deals with material science, surfaces, and other concepts. |
|
Semester 2 |
Elective |
Additive Manufacturing |
An overview of Additive Manufacturing in product development is given through this subject. |
|
Semester 2 |
Elective |
Tool Design |
The design of dies, fixtures, and other production tools is given in this subject. |
|
Semester 3 |
Elective |
Unconventional Machining Process |
This subject discussed the unconventional techniques and processes used in production. |
|
Semester 3 |
Elective |
Supply Chain Management |
It deals with the importance of the supply chain and its various elements. |
|
Semester 3 |
Elective |
Theory of Metal Cutting |
The mechanisms of tool wear and their nomenclature are explained to the students. |
|
Semester 3 |
Core |
Numerical Methods |
The numerical methods used in mathematics and their applications in Production Engineering are covered in this subject. |
|
Semester 3 |
Core |
Mechanics of Solids |
This subject talks about the characteristics of solid particles and objects in specific conditions. |
|
Semester 3 |
Core |
Thermodynamics & Thermal Engineering |
Basic Thermodynamics, steam and jet propulsion, compressors, air standard cycles, etc., are covered in this subject. |
|
Semester 3 |
Core |
Fluid Mechanics & Fluid Machines |
The properties of fluids, their behaviour in different conditions, and applications are explained here. |
|
Semester 4 |
Core |
Environmental Science |
The influence of different production methods on the environment and human life is discussed here. |
|
Semester 4 |
Core |
Foundry & Welding Technology |
The concepts related to welding and casting are taught to the students. |
|
Semester 4 |
Core |
Engineering Materials |
Non-ferrous alloys, polymers, ceramics, and other materials used in engineering applications are discussed here. |
|
Semester 5 |
Core |
Kinematics & Dynamics of Machines |
Friction, gears and cams, vibration, balancing, and related concepts are covered here. |
|
Semester 6 |
Core |
Metal Forming |
The fundamentals of metal forming, forging, rolling, sheet metal forming process, etc., are explained to the students. |
|
Semester 7 |
Core |
CNC Machines |
The students get knowledge of the CNC technology and structure of the CNC machines through this subject. |
|
Semester 7 |
Core |
Engineering Metrology |
The fundamentals of measurements and metrology of gears, screws, etc., are analysed in this subject. |
|
Semester 7 |
Core |
CAD Analysis |
This subject introduces the art of designing machines through computer applications. |
|
Semester 8 |
Core |
Mechatronics for Automation |
System Modelling and control, microcontrollers, actuators, etc., are explained in this subject. |
|
Semester 8 |
Core |
Computer-Aided Manufacturing Systems |
The knowledge of computer-aided manufacturing systems is provided to the students. |
|
Semester 8 |
Elective |
Industrial Management |
The students learn how to manage finance, inventory, and other aspects of the industry through this subject. |
|
Semester 8 |
Elective |
Modern Concepts in manufacturing |
Lean manufacturing, agile manufacturing, green manufacturing, additive manufacturing, and intelligent manufacturing are explained in this subject. |
|
Semester 8 |
Elective |
Materials Procurement Management |
This subject focuses on procurement of materials and maintaining their supply as per requirement. |
Production Engineering Syllabus: Distance Programme
Very few colleges and institutions offer distance learning programmes in Production Engineering. Most colleges offer only diploma certificates in Production Engineering, whereas some colleges also offer master-level and bachelor-level degree courses in Production Engineering.
The syllabus is mostly identical, but the students have the flexibility in course duration and time slot for exams. Also, the fees for distance learning programmes are generally much lesser than regular courses. However, the eligibility criteria for distance learning programmes remain the same. The students need to clear 10+2 studies and score high marks on the entrance tests.
Specialisations offered in Production Engineering
Production Engineering is a vast discipline that incorporates different specialisations as well. The students can choose a specialisation that they find suitable according to their interests and career prospects. Here are some popular specialisations offered in Production Engineering:
|
Specialisation |
Specialisation Subjects |
Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Quality Engineering |
Quality Engineering tools Auditing Process control Product control |
It includes techniques and systems used to improve product quality. |
|
Food Manufacturing Engineering |
Technology of fermented foods Instrumentation engineering Material handling systems Productions & operations management |
The applications of manufacturing engineering in food production are discussed in this specialisation. |
|
Supply Chain Management |
Marketing Management Human Resource Management Managerial Economics Logistic Management |
It covers the fundamental elements of supply chain management. |
|
Product Development |
Ideation of product Product feasibility Product Designing |
It tells how to develop a product in prototype, design, and various other stages. |
|
System Analysis |
Problem solving using computers Manufacturing system analysis Measures of system performance |
It imparts knowledge about production system analysis and support. |
Production Engineering Syllabus: Books and Authors
These reference books can help students get deeper insights into Production Engineering concepts:
|
Subject |
Book Title |
Author |
Description |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Fluid Mechanics |
Fluid Mechanics |
AK Jain |
This book gives an overview of fluid mechanics and its applications. |
|
Electrical Machines |
Electrical Machinery and Transformers |
LL Kosow |
The function, principles, and principles of electrical machinery are included. |
|
Production Management |
Essentials of Management |
Koontz & Weihrich |
The essential concepts of production management are covered in this book. |
|
Production Management |
Modern Production/Operations Management |
ES Buffa & RK Sarin |
It talks about modern approaches to production and operations. |
|
Measurements and Instrumentation |
Metrology |
RK Jain |
The different measurement techniques used in metrology are discussed here. |
|
Measurements and Instrumentation |
Metrology for Engineers |
J Gallies & C Shotbolt |
This book talks about different concepts of angular and linear measurement in the instrumentation process. |
|
Material Science & Technology |
Material Science & Engineering |
V Raghavan |
It discusses the relationship between engineering and material science. |
|
Materials Science & Technology |
Mechanical Metallurgy |
GE Dieter |
It talks about the concepts of mechanical metallurgy. |
|
Metal Cutting Principles and Machining Technology |
Production Technology |
HMT Publications |
It discusses the principles used in machining and metal cutting. |
|
Environmental Management |
Introduction to Environmental Engineering |
Mackenzie, L Davis, A David, and Cornwell |
Discusses the product development process from the perspective of environmental management. |
Entrance Exams for Production Engineering
The admission to the BTech and BE in production engineering programmes are provided based on the entrance exam marks. These exams consist of multiple-choice questions, and some of them even adopt a negative marking scheme. Some popular entrance exams for Production Engineering courses are listed below:
The difficulty level of national level exams like JEE range from moderate to difficult. The students need to complete their 10+2 studies to be eligible for these tests. The important concepts related to Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry are included in the syllabus of these entrance exams. The entrance exams are mostly held offline, but some entrance exams are also held online.
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Most Popular Courses
Popular Courses
- B.Tech. in Petroleum EngineeringIIT Dhanbad (ISM) - Indian Institute of Technology (ISM)
- B.Tech. in Petroleum EngineeringGraphic Era Deemed to be University
- B.Tech. in Petroleum EngineeringRajiv Gandhi Institute of Petroleum Technology
- Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech. Lateral Entry)Vignan's Foundation for Science, Technology and Research
- B.Tech. in Petroleum EngineeringGodavari Institute of Engineering and Technology
- B.Tech. in Petroleum TechnologyAditya University
- B.Tech in Petroleum EngineeringIndian Institute of Petroleum and Energy
- B.Tech. in Petrochemical EngineeringZakir Husain College of Engineering and Technology, Aligarh Muslim University
- B.Tech. in Petroleum EngineeringParul University
- B.Tech. in Petroleum EngineeringDIT University
Popular Petroleum Engineering UG Courses
UG Courses
- B.E. / B.Tech
106 Colleges
- B.Sc.
2 Colleges
- UG Diploma
1 College
Popular Petroleum Engineering PG Courses
PG Courses
- PG Diploma
31 Colleges
- M.E./M.Tech
23 Colleges
- MBA/PGDM
3 Colleges
- M.Sc.
1 College
- MS
1 College
News & Updates
Student Forum
Answered a week ago
Of course, you can. But there'll be a huge career shift from Engineering to Management. An MBA is focused on management and leadership roles, which are not a part of the Engineering field.
Engineering is more about experiments, explorations, and innovations.
Take a moment to think deeply about your e
M
Contributor-Level 9
Answered a week ago
The difference is simple! Petroleum Engineering means producing oil and gas from reservoirs. And Petrochemical Engineering means dealing with chemicals (petroleum-based) carried out in a refinery.
Petroleum Engineering areas include Drilling, Reservoir, Production, Formation Evaluation, Well Loggin
G
Contributor-Level 9
Answered a week ago
Though you'll upskill during the course itself via projects, theory, labs, internships, etc. But some abilities that'll eventually help you succeed in this field are
| Analytical Thinking | Curiousity |
| Problem-Solving skills | CAD software proficiency |
| Self Awareness | Quick Thinking |
Note - The information is taken from external sites and may vary.
Know more about -
L
Contributor-Level 9
Answered a week ago
It's vast. You can join plenty of fields from government and private worldwide. The energy, manufacturing, education, and research fields have a high demand for Petroleum Engineering students.
Giants like Indian Oil Corporation (IOCL), Bharat Petroleum (BPCL), Reliance Industries (RIL), NTPC, TATA P
R
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 2 months ago
MSc Petroleum Engineering course of Heriot University Dubai is one-year. This course allows students to study specific-courses and take a field development project (with fellow students) and an individual research project. Also, this course is accredited by the QAA in the UK and the Ministry of High
I
Contributor-Level 10
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