WCU Program: Petroleum Geology

Explore how natural resources are discovered and produced.

The Moncrief Petroleum Geology program will prepare you for a career as a geoscientist in the oil and gas industry or as a resource assessment and energy policy manager at a governmental agency. In the program, you’ll have the opportunity to visit nearby oil and gas fields, study stunning geologic formations minutes from campus and work one-on-one with professors on independent research projects.

Generous donations from legendary oilman Tex Moncrief Jr. and Western graduate Paul M. Rady, Chairman and CEO of Antero Resources, have provided funding for the Petroleum Geology program. In our state-of-the-art computing facilities, you’ll learn the technological skills you need to navigate industry software and data sets. To begin making professional connections, you’ll have the opportunity to network with industry geoscientists and participate in competitive internships. If you’re interested in pursuing an advanced degree, our expert faculty will help you publish your research and apply to graduate programs.

Petroleum Geology Requirements

Emphasis

A major emphasis dives deeper into a specific interest within your major. It allows you to focus on a particular area of study, replacing the need for a separate minor. By tailoring your coursework, a major emphasis equips you with specialized knowledge and skills to better prepare you for career opportunities or advanced studies in your chosen field.

Scholarships

Scholarships by Department

The Natural & Environmental Sciences (NES) Department offers scholarships specifically for this program. Explore eligibility requirements and funding opportunities.

Explore Scholarships

General Western Scholarships

Western Colorado University offers merit—and need-based scholarships, recognizing achievement, financial need, and special talents.

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Top Skills

Communication
Data analysis​
Petrophysics
Subsurface Mapping​
Project Management
Research

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Career Pathways

Economic Geologist​
Geologist
Geoscientist​​
Geoscience Technician
Petrophysicist
Seismic Interpreter

Latest News

Faculty & Staff

Natural & Environmental Sciences Department

Contact Information

Contact Location

Western Colorado University
Hurst Hall 128
1 Western Way
Gunnison, CO 81231

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