A dynamic regulatory environment and sophisticated resource owners make the modern era of energy production far more complex than it was 30 years ago. Technological advancements in deepwater operations, wind energy and unconventional shale resources present new challenges for energy professionals. Leaders need flexible and creative commercial arrangements to accommodate operations. Our Energy Management Program equips students to successfully meet these challenges by training them in business, geoscience, petroleum operations and law. Elective coursework provides students with increased understanding of environmental issues, sustainable development, energy trading, and alternative energy solutions.
Curriculum
Our energy management program is 18 credit hours for all undergraduate students. It incorporates required coursework in business, geoscience, law and petroleum engineering, as well as elective courses applicable to a student’s chosen major. During the summer session, we will supplement the curriculum with experiential learning through guest speakers from industry and energy site visits. The diagram below illustrates required coursework to complete the program, which will launch in summer 2013.
Course Descriptions
GEO 303 - Basic Geology - Offered most semesters
Mineral and rock composition of the earth; measurement of geologic time; origin and evolution of life; earth's interior; plate tectonics; depositional environments and processes; ancient climates; humans, earth resources, and the environment.
GEO 401 - Physical Geology - Offered most semesters
Nature, properties, and distribution of crustal materials; surficial processes; internal processes; origin of continents, oceans, and ocean basins; mineral and fuel resources.
GEO 420H - Honors Introductory Geology - Offered most semesters
An accelerated introductory course on the composition, structure, and history of the earth.
GEO 316P - Sedimentary Rocks - Only offered in the summer
Examines the controls on patterns of permeability, porosity, and capillary pressure in sedimentary deposits. Includes mechanisms controlling the primary production and distribution of permeability and porosity in sedimentary deposits; diagenetic alteration to original permeabilities and porosities associated with deposit burial and heating; and generation and flow of hydrocarbons through sedimentary rocks.
LEB n370 - Oil & Gas Law - Only offered in the summer
A study of the law of oil and gas with emphasis on the interests that may be created in oil and gas, the rights of the landowner, provisions in the oil and gas lease, the rights of assignees, and legislation dealing with production and conservation.
LEB n363- Real Estate Law - Only offered in the summer
This course examines the legal issues involved in the acquisition, development, management and disposition of real estate. Topics include: offers, purchase and sale agreements, organization of the ownership entity, financing, mortgages, construction, taxation, and leasing.
BGS n370- Oil & Gas Exploration - Only offered in the summer
This course will describe the use of the surface by the operators from an ingress and egress point of view; responsible parties; drilling locations; pits; water use and disposal; drilling mud use and disposal; drilling, completion and production operations; hydraulic stimulation; pipeline right of ways; soil use; site emissions and spills; and site abandonment.
BGS 370.1 - Energy, Technology and Policy - Only offered in the fall with this topic
This class will present students with the background information to understand the broad context of energy production and consumption in the United States and world overall. The class will begin with background material discussing past energy trends and fundamentals of energy and power including the different physical forms in which energy is stored and transformed.
Faculty
- Dr. Paul M. Bommer
Bommer is a senior lecturer in the Petroleum Engineering Department at The University of Texas at Austin and the newest member of the PETEX advisory board. He has 25 years of drilling and production experience in industry and has been teaching for eight years at UT. He was a member of the National Academy of Engineering committee that investigated the BP – Macondo Blow Out and the NOAA committee that estimated the flow rate from the Macondo blow out. Bommer’s father and grandfather were Texas oil men, so he knows firsthand the importance of understanding the fundamentals of the petroleum business.
Professor Bommer received his B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. in petroleum engineering from The University of Texas at Austin.
- Dr. John C. Butler
Butler’s research focuses on the Decision Sciences: decision analysis, operations, information systems, management science and statistics. He serves as secretary/treasurer of INFORMS Decision Analysis Society, an organization comprised of over 900 academics and practitioners in the field of decision analysis.
For the Energy Management and Innovation Center (EMIC), Dr. Butler is focused on building energy-specific business curriculum. He teaches MBA-level energy finance classes and supervises student participation in practicums and case competitions.
Professor Butler received his B.B.A. from Texas A&M University and his Ph.D. from The University of Texas at Austin.
- Dr. William L. Fisher
Fisher's research has focused in the areas of stratigraphy, sedimentology, and oil and gas assessment. In 1967 he introduced the concept of depositional systems, now a household term and a fundamental part of modern stratigraphy and sedimentology, as well as the basis for modern resource assessment by class or play. In 1987 he led an assessment team for DOE that turned around the then-prevalent view of natural gas scarcity. He has championed the importance of technology in resource availability and has been a leader in the rethinking of the significance of reserve growth from existing, geologically complex oil and gas fields.
Professor Fisher holds a B.S. and D.Sc. (Hon.) from Southern Illinois University, a M.S. and Ph.D. in geology from the University of Kansas, and a D. Eng. (Hon.) from the Colorado School of Mines; he received the Presidential Citation (equivalent to an honorary doctorate) from The University of Texas at Austin.
- Dr. Stephanie C. Jue
Stephanie C. Jue is a lecturer in the Business, Government, and Society Department of the McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas at Austin. Ms. Jue received a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology and a Master of Science degree in sociology from Mississippi State University, a Doctor of Jurisprudence degree from South Texas College of Law in Houston, Texas, and a Master's degree in Energy, Environmental, and Natural Resources Law from the University of Houston Law Center in Houston, Texas.
Ms. Jue has experience in the energy industry as a legal analyst for a multinational oil and gas corporation and as corporate counsel for a regional electric grid operator. She has also previously taught courses at Mississippi State University and the University of Houston. She is a member of Phi Delta Phi, Alpha Kappa Delta, and Psi Chi Honor Societies.
- Dr. Wonsuck Kim
Dr. Kim's research seeks to advance our understanding of stratigraphic responses to sediment transport processes and imposed boundary conditions in depositional basins. The morphodynamics of the sediment-fluid interface are influenced by both depositional mechanics and environmental forcing. Subsurface architecture is a record of the "fossilized" dynamics of this moving boundary. The research interest lies in improving tools for predicting subsurface spatial architecture across a range of scales using an understanding of sediment transport and surface flow dynamics and their time-integrated preservation in depositional systems.
Dr. Kim's research group conducts laboratory experiments to study sedimentation over space and time scales that are inaccessible in the field, and use the experimental data to motivate and constrain theoretical models of morphodynamics and depositional patterns. They apply insight gained from physical and mathematical models to field data in order to improve interpretation of paleoenvironments using the stratigraphic record.
- Dr. Carey W. King
King's research focuses on energy systems and how they work together and within the environment. Carey's research interests focus upon:
(i) relating measures of net energy to economics;
(ii) understanding how technology and policy can interact within the nexus between energy and water;
(iii) integration and transition to increased renewable energy production;
(iv) the economics and life cycle of system-wide/integrated carbon capture and storage infrastructure; and
(v) promoting objective analyses of energy tradeoffs for energy education, decision-making, and policy development for natural resources.
Professor King received both a B.S. with high honors and Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin.
- Dr. Paula C. Murray
Murray is the associate dean at the McCombs School of Business and is also an associate professor in the Department of Business, Government and Society. Her research and teaching interests include real estate and environmental law, wills, trusts, and estates.
Professor Murray received her B.A. from Baylor University and her J.D. from The University of Texas at Austin.
FAQs
- Why should I consider the Energy Management Program?
The top Energy Management & Commerce degree programs in US universities today do not produce enough quality graduates to meet industry’s needs. While there is pent up demand for energy specialists like landmen, energy companies are looking for graduates in every functional area of business with the ability to apply their skills in the energy space. Unconventional tight sand and shale plays have dramatically increased demand for top talent in the industry, and many energy companies are unable to fill all of their open positions for commercial business professionals. In addition, lack of growth and recruitment in the industry has resulted in demographics that are top heavy with age, leaving a vacuum of younger talent to assume leadership roles. All of these circumstances create a fantastic opportunity for undergraduates to pursue careers in the energy industry.
- What skills will I learn?
The multi-disciplinary program draws on expertise across the UT campus, namely, faculty in the Cockrell School of Engineering, the Jackson School of Geosciences, and the McCombs School of Business. Students will take petroleum operations and geology courses to better understand oil, gas and minerals. Relevant legal aspects, such as operating agreements, mineral rights, title clearance, and surface agreements, will be covered through coursework in real estate law, contracts law, and oil & gas law, offered by McCombs’ faculty in the Business, Government and Society department. Instruction in business administration and finance will be also be provided through McCombs coursework. These skills are designed to complement any degree plan at the University of Texas.
- Is there a student organization associated with the Energy Management Program?
Yes! The Texas Energy Forum (TEF) is the undergraduate energy student organization. They hold meetings every other Tuesday evening, and often host industry professionals as guest speakers on a variety of energy topics. TEF has an oil & gas division that will collaborate with local industry association groups, Austin Petroleum Landman Association and Austin Petroleum Exploration Society, to promote industry engagement through experiential educational opportunities, field trips, social activities, and internships.
To learn more about TEF, please see their website: http://texasenergyforum.blogspot.com/ or contact current TEF officers.
Saad Ahmad, President
saadnov25@gmail.com
Robert Cannon, Vice President
robertcannon17@gmail.com
Trevor Howard, Treasurer
trevorphoward14@gmail.com
Tanner King, Director of Oil & Gas Division
tanner.king@utexas.edu
- How do I register for these classes and do I need special approval?
You will need to apply for admission into the program. Once admitted you will be allowed to register for the core courses during the summer registration period outlined by the University registration schedule.
- Is there an application, and if so, when and how do I apply?
Yes, please click on our “Apply” tab and fill out the brief application. Application season each year is March 1-April 1 for priority consideration and April 1-May 1 for second tier consideration. We cannot guarantee spots after the priority consideration applications have been received as our program fills quickly. You should apply during the spring prior to when you would like to begin the summer program. Examples: 1) Interested in summer 2013, then apply in spring 2013. 2) Interested in summer 2014, then apply in spring 2014. We can no longer delay the start of your acceptance and if you want to start the program during a susbsquent summer you will need to reapply during the spring before the start of the summer you wish to participate in.
- When can I start the program?
The inaugural cohort of the Energy Management Program will begin taking classes in summer 2013, with a nine week intensive session that begins June 6, 2013 and ends August 1, 2013. For summer 2013 the schedule is as follows:
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June 6-July 2 (M-Th), Finals July 3
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July 8-July 31 (M-Th), Finals August 1
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Time
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Class
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Professor
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Time
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Class
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Professor
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9:00am-12:00pm
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BGS f370 OIL/GAS EXPLOR NONTECH PERSON (71552)
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Bommer
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9:00am-12:00pm
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GEO s316P SEDIMENTARY ROCKS (80973)
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Kim
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12:00pm-2:00pm
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Lunch
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N/A
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12:00pm-2:00pm
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Lunch
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N/A
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2:00pm-5:00pm
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LEB f363 REAL ESTATE LAW (71613)
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Murray
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2:00pm-5:00pm
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LEB s370 OIL AND GAS LAW (71683)
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Jue
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- How long is the program?
The program can be spread over the four-year degree plan; however, four of the required courses are designed to be taken during a nine week summer semester for non-Geology majors (Geology majors will only need to take the three non-geology summer school courses). GEO 303, GEO 401, or GEO 420H is a prerequisite that must be taken prior to GEO 316K or the equivalent; BGS 370 can be taken in any fall semester of the junior or senior year.
- What are the four courses that are taken together?
LEB f363-Real Estate Law, GEO s316P (for non geology majors) or the equivalent (GEO 416M), LEB s370 Oil & Gas Law, and BGS f370 Oil and Gas Exploration for Nontechnical Personnel. *If you have already completed GEO s316P or the equivalent (GEO 416M) you can just take the other three courses, although we recommend sitting in on the summer class if your schedule and space in the room permits.
- What are the prerequisite courses for the Energy Management Program?
GEO 303, GEO 401, or GEO 420H with a grade of a C- or higher is required to take GEO 316P or the equivalent.
- Will participation in the program delay my graduation date?
No, if all of your courses are selected thoughtfully, this program should not add any length to the total time it will take you to graduate from the University. The program does require one nine week summer session, designed to be taken after your sophomore year.
- Can I finish the program earlier or later?
Possibly, however, there are four core classes that are grouped and are to be taken in the summer semester together. *It is possible to only take three courses in the summer (LEB f363-Real Estate Law, LEB s370 Oil & Gas Law, and BGS f370 Oil and Gas Exploration for Nontechnical Personnel) if you have already taken GEO s316P.
- Can I substitute courses?
No, the program has been carefully designed with input from energy industry professionals and academicians. The courses cover a broad scope of topics critical to understanding challenges and procedures with securing and developing energy resources. Moreover, the program design already incorporates elective courses selected by each student from an approved list.
- Can I take any of the courses in a semester other than summer?
No, unless you are a Geology or Engineering major and your degree programs offers the course during another semester.
- Can I take any of the courses at another university?
No, all courses must be completed at the University of Texas at Austin, with the exception of the prerequisite GEO 303 or the equivalent.
- Are Energy Management courses available to non-UT students or offered online?
Unfortunately, at this time the energy management courses are not offered online. While we do not currently have plans to move towards online course offerings, if there is sufficient demand, we may revisit this issue.
- Can I take courses pass/fail?
No, they must be taken for a letter grade.
- Will this be listed on my transcript?
Pending final approval from several UT governing councils, the Energy Management Program may be listed on your transcript upon request. Projected timeframe fall 2014. If you enter and complete the program prior to fall 2014 the certificate will not appear on your transcript. You can see the program coordinator about a formal letter stating you completed the coursework successfully in this case.
- What is the process to have the program added to my transcript?
You must complete an online request. Please make your request when you are taking your last program classes; if you wait until you have completed your last class, your request will be processed the next semester.
- Upon graduation, what careers do program graduates pursue?
Program graduates will enter the industry in numerous areas, including but not limited to: accounting, finance, land management, supply chain, entrepreneurship, and property administration.
- Is there a required minimum GPA to be accepted into the program?
We recommend having at least a 2.5 cummulative GPA at UT Austin to be successful in our program.
If you have additional questions, please contact us directly or visit one of our info sessions.
Invest
The Undergraduate Energy Management Program at the McCombs School of Business provides an officially recognized program of study in Energy Management for undergraduate students to pursue in parallel with a traditional business degree. The program launches in summer 2013 or 2014, depending on funding.
Endowment funding is necessary to ensure the permanence of the Energy Management Program. An endowment of $4 million provides $175,000 annually to support the following activities:
Curriculum Development and Instruction:
New curriculum will be developed around current industry trends to ensure that the program is distinctive.
Recruiting and Marketing:
Dedicated external relations staff will best serve students, potential employers and industry partners with program marketing and career services.
Student Support:
Creation of scholarships and co-curricular opportunities, including field trips, site visits, industry speakers, energy movies and professional development activities, enhances the curriculum and attracts the best students from across Texas and the United States.
Faculty Resources:
Additional faculty resources, such as software, data, and financial incentives for research, training and teaching, facilitates timely and accurate course content, and attracts the best faculty from across campus to ensure exceptional course offerings.
Download Pledge Form Here
Endowment Goal: $4 Million
$500,000
A five-year commitment of $100,000 a year creates at the direction of the donor:
- A named Excellence Fund to ensure the long-term success of the Undergraduate Energy Management Program.
Donor recognition at this level includes:
- Permanent physical recognition within the McCombs School, as well as recognition on the EMIC and UEMP websites.
- Placement in University of Texas at Austin Energy Management and Innovation Center marketing materials.
- Recognition as a Lifetime Member of the McCombs Energy Management and Innovation Center.
$250,000
A five-year commitment of $50,000 a year creates at the direction of the donor:
- A named excellence fund to support the operations of the Undergraduate Energy management Program, or
- A named endowment to create an estimated $12,500 annual undergraduate scholarship for students within the program.
Donor recognition at this level includes:
- Permanent physical recognition within the McCombs School, as well as recognition on the EMIC and UEMP websites.
- Placement in University of Texas at Austin Energy Management and Innovation Center marketing materials.
$100,000
A five-year commitment of $20,000 a year creates at the direction of the donor:
- A named excellence fund to support the operations of the UEMP, or
- A named endowment to create an estimated $5,000 annual undergraduate scholarship for students within the program.
Donor recognition at this level includes:
- Permanent physical recognition within the McCombs School.
- Placement in University of Texas at Austin Energy Management and Innovation Center marketing materials.
$50,000
A five-year commitment of $10,000 a year for five years (beyond any annual Center dues) creates at the direction of the donor:
- A named excellence fund to support the operations of the Undergraduate Energy Management Program, or
- A named endowment to create an estimated $2,500 annual undergraduate scholarship for students within the program.
Donor recognition at this level includes:
- Permanent physical recognition within the McCombs School.
Under $50,000
- Donors can pledge gifts of less than $50,000 to be paid over a five-year period. These gifts go towards the co-mingled Undergraduate Energy Management Program Endowed Excellence Fund to support the Undergraduate Energy Management Program.
For more information, please contact:
Amy Dunham
McCombs School of Business Development Office | The University of Texas at Austin
2110 Speedway Room 5.175F B6006, Austin TX 78712
phone: 512-475-8178 |
amy.dunham@mccombs.utexas.edu
Apply
No Longer Accepting Applications For Summer 2013
Applications for summer 2014 will open March 1-April 1, 2014
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until the cohort fills. Your application must be complete at least one week prior to the first day of the summer session to be considered. Applications received before April 1 of each year receive priority consideration. If you have any additional questions about the application or the status of your application please contact Jessica Miller at
jessica.miller@mccombs.utexas.edu.
Click here for the application.
Info Sessions
Come find out more about what the Undergraduate Energy Management Program can offer you. It's open to all University of Texas at Austin undergraduate students.
Dates:
Thursday, June 6, 2013
Tuesday, June 11, 2013
Tuesday, June 18, 2013
Tuesday, June 25, 2013
Tuesday, July 2, 2013
Tuesday, July 9, 2013
Time: 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Location: MSB Conference Room, CBA 6.420