Course overview
he Integrated Field Development Project (IFDP) course provides students with a comprehensive, hands-on learning experience in petroleum field development planning. Through a structured, three-module approach, students gain the necessary technical, economic, and decision-making skills to develop and evaluate an optimal field development strategy.
Module 1: Decision Making and Economics introduces key decision-making principles and economic evaluation techniques essential for petroleum engineers. Topics include decision-tree analysis, Monte Carlo simulation, petroleum fiscal regimes, and economic performance metrics. Emphasis is placed on managing uncertainty and understanding the psychological factors influencing decision-making in the oil and gas industry. This module provides foundational skills that are crucial for the subsequent stages of the course.
Module 2: Fundamentals of Field Development Planning explores the process of developing an optimal petroleum field development plan. It examines key project drivers, the integration of multidisciplinary expertise, and the trade-offs between cost, risk, and recovery. The module covers the entire field development lifecycle, from initial screening and appraisal to project sanction, using real-world case studies to illustrate best practices in balancing reservoir management, drilling, facilities design, and economic considerations.
Module 3: IFDP Group Project Work applies the knowledge gained in the first two modules and throughout the degree to a realistic offshore field development scenario. Working in teams, with each team member taking on a specialised role, they analyse exploration and appraisal data, assess uncertainties, and develop a technically and economically viable field development plan. The course culminates in formal presentations to an academic and industry panel, as well as the submission of a detailed written development plan.
By integrating technical expertise with economic and decision-making frameworks, IFDP prepares students for real-world challenges in petroleum field development, equipping them with the skills necessary to make informed, high-value engineering and business decisions in a complex and uncertain environment.
- Decision Making and Economics
- Basis of IFDP
- IFDP Group Project Work
Course learning outcomes
- Apply specialised petroleum engineering and geoscience workflows, integrating principles of natural and physical sciences, mathematics, and digital literacy to solve complex industry challenges.
- Critically evaluate and synthesise multi-source industry datasets to support decision-making under uncertainty, applying economic evaluation tools (e.g., NPV, DCF, Monte Carlo Simulation) and risk assessment frameworks to optimise petroleum project outcomes.
- Design, execute, and present a comprehensive field development plan, integrating technical, economic, safety, and environmental considerations, and effectively justifying recommendations to academic and industry panels.
- Lead and collaborate effectively in diverse, multidisciplinary teams, demonstrating cultural and emotional intelligence, inclusive teamwork, and professional communication. Apply leadership, project management, and creative problem-solving to develop sustainable and innovative engineering solutions.
- Demonstrate commitment to ethical engineering practice, health & safety, and environmental stewardship by applying regulatory frameworks, risk management strategies, and sustainable development principles in petroleum engineering projects.
- Conduct independent research, critically reviewing academic and industry literature to expand knowledge, foster innovation, and support lifelong learning in evolving energy sector challenges.
Availability
Class details
Adelaide City Campus East
Class number 50615
Section WS01
Size 30
Available 30
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