The Professional Engineer designation consists of two tests about four years apart.
Petroleum engineering jobs are expected to grow slower than average over the next several years, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. However, many petroleum engineers are expected to retire, so graduates of petroleum engineering programs should be able to find a job. If you want to be a petroleum engineer, concentrate on math and science courses in high school, then earn a bachelor's degree. Training for petroleum engineering is rigorous and you will be required to continually upgrade your skills through professional development classes throughout your career.
Instructions
1. Take as many math and science classes as you can while in high school.
2. Attend an accredited college and earn a 4-year bachelor's degree. This is the minimum education required to work as a petroleum engineer. Some schools offer degrees in petroleum engineering. At other schools, you can major in geology, mining, civil engineering or geophysics and take classes in petroleum engineering.
3. Pass the first part of the engineering licensing exam, known as the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, when you are close to earning your bachelor's degree. This is an 8-hour exam given in April and October of each year. The exam tests basic engineering knowledge learned during college. When you pass the exam, you will be known as an Intern Engineer.
4. Pass the second part of the engineering licensing exam, known as the Professional Engineering (PE) exam, after you have completed four years working in the field. This exam tests more specific knowledge. When you pass this exam, you will be known as a Professional Engineer and can use the letters "PE" after your name.
5. Earn your petroleum engineering certification. The Society of Petroleum Engineers offers this certification to its members who pass a competency exam and agree to complete 16 hours of continuing education each year. This exam may be waived if you have passed your Professional Engineering exam. You must also maintain your membership in The Society of Petroleum Engineers.
6. Take additional classes in petroleum engineering after you earn a bachelor's degree. You can do this through online training programs, through your employer or by attending workshops and conferences sponsored by the various organizations for professional petroleum engineers.
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