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Dynamic Knowledge

Drilling for oil and gas is one of the most dynamic and exciting professions in the world. A career in the drilling industry allows world wide travel and can be rewarding professionally, personally and financially. There are tremendous opportunities for individuals that are able to develop an expertise and gain experience in the field. The challenge can be finding and taking advantage of those opportunities.

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Drilling for oil and gas is one of the most dynamic and exciting professions in the world. A career in the drilling industry allows world wide travel and can be rewarding professionally, personally and financially. There are tremendous opportunities for individuals that are able to develop an expertise and gain experience in the field. The challenge can be finding and taking advantage of those opportunities.

This course will provide students with the knowledge they need to become more competitive while seeking employment or starting their career.

In this course we will review the entire process of drilling oil and gas wells. The course was designed to progressively build and develop the students’ knowledge. We start off by focusing on the different types of drilling rigs and which applications they are most suited for. Once a general knowledge of the rigs is acquired we will focus on the rig systems that allow wells to be drilled.

Following the rig systems we begin to focus on petroleum geology. We review the characteristics of petroleum reservoirs and how they are formed. We then review the pressures encountered while drilling and how this affects the drilling operations.

The components of the drill string including bottom hole assembly will be discussed in detail. We will focus on common components of the drill string in strait and direction wells. Bit selection will also be an important topic covered.

At the end of this course you will be able to talk confidently about the drilling process in an interview, with co-workers or in general conversation with friends.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Develop familiarity with common "oil field" terms and phrases.
  • Discuss the drilling process with potential employers and co-workers with confidence.
  • Gain understanding of drill string components and the proper applications of each component.
  • Gain familiarity with components of a drilling rig including hoisting, rotating and circulating systems.
  • Identify characteristics of a petroleum reservoir.
  • Walk into a job interview with confidence!

Syllabus

Introduction to Drilling

This lecture will provide students with an overview of the drilling process. The goal is to give students enough initial background information that they can begin to understand the different components of the process and how they work together. 

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Drilling Rig's and Systems

This lecture will provide students with an overview of the most common types of drilling rigs. Students will learn which types of rig are better suited for specific applications. 

This lecture will provide students with an overview of a rig's hoisting system. Students will learn what the purpose of a hoisting system is and the different components of the hoisting system. 

This lecture will provide students with an overview of the rotary system. The lecture will start off by outlining the difference between a traditional and top drive systems. We will then review components of the system's and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each system. 

This lecture will provide students with an overview of the circulation system. Students will learn the components and main functions of the circulation system. We will also introduce drilling fluids and their main purpose. 

Petroleum Geology

This lecture will review the conditions in which oil and gas is formed. Students will learn the two conditions of production, permeability and porosity. Finally we will discuss the characteristics of a petroleum reservoir. 

This lecture will cover the pressures encountered while drilling. We will review formation vs. hydrostatic pressure and how they affect the drilling process. 

Drill String

This lecture will review the major components of a drill string. We will review drill pipe, drill collars, heavy-weight drill pipe and drill bits.

This lecture will review the factors that affect BHA design. We will review the main functions of the bottom hole assembly. Students will learn how to determine the required weight on bit and how to identify the neutral point. 

Casing Overview

This lecture will introduce casing and cover typical casing characteristics. Students will learn the common description of casing and the significance in casing design. 

This lecture will review the common casing strings in an oil and gas well. We will review the purpose of each casing string and explain why it is typically run. We will also expand on the drilling window idea which will help students understand a fundamental concept of casing design.  

Primary Cementing

This lecture will cover the purpose of primary cementing. We will review cementing operations and how cement works with casing to isolate formations. 

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Explains common terms and phrases used in the oil and gas drilling industry, helping learners comprehend industry jargon
Provides a thorough overview of the drilling process, preparing learners for discussions with potential employers and colleagues
Examines drill string components and their applications, equipping learners with knowledge essential for understanding drilling operations
Introduces learners to the components of a drilling rig, including hoisting, rotating, and circulating systems, enhancing their understanding of drilling equipment
Explores characteristics of petroleum reservoirs, providing learners with insights into the geology of oil and gas deposits
Teaches students how to identify and understand pressures encountered while drilling, preparing them for potential challenges in drilling operations

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Introduction to Oil and Gas Drilling with these activities:
Organize Your Course Materials
Keep your course materials organized to stay on top of your studies. This will make it easier to find the information you need when you need it.
Show steps
  • Create a dedicated folder for your course materials.
  • Make copies of all your lecture notes and handouts.
  • Organize your materials by topic or week.
  • Review your materials regularly.
Review Basic Math and Physics Concepts
Strengthen your foundation in basic math and physics concepts. This will help you better understand the technical aspects of drilling operations.
Browse courses on Mathematics
Show steps
  • Review your high school math and physics textbooks.
  • Take online practice tests to assess your understanding.
  • Attend a refresher course or workshop.
Review Petroleum Geology Concepts
Refresh your knowledge of petroleum geology concepts. This will help you understand the geological factors that affect drilling operations.
Browse courses on Petroleum Geology
Show steps
  • Review your college-level petroleum geology textbook.
  • Take online practice tests to assess your understanding.
  • Attend a refresher course or workshop.
Five other activities
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Show all eight activities
Volunteer with a Local Drilling Company
Gain practical experience in the drilling industry by volunteering with a local drilling company. This will give you an opportunity to observe real-world drilling operations and learn from experienced professionals.
Show steps
  • Contact local drilling companies to inquire about volunteer opportunities.
  • Attend a safety orientation and training session.
  • Assist with drilling operations under the supervision of experienced professionals.
  • Ask questions and learn about the different aspects of drilling.
Attend a Petroleum Industry Conference
Connect with professionals in the petroleum industry by attending a conference. This will give you an opportunity to learn about the latest developments in drilling technology and network with potential employers.
Browse courses on Oil and Gas Industry
Show steps
  • Research upcoming petroleum industry conferences.
  • Register for the conference and pay the registration fee.
  • Attend the conference sessions and workshops.
  • Network with other attendees and potential employers.
Complete Drill String Design Quiz
Practice your knowledge of drill string design by completing this quiz. This will help you solidify your understanding of the different components of a drill string and how they work together.
Show steps
  • Access the quiz using the link provided by your instructor.
  • Read each question carefully.
  • Select the best answer from the options provided.
  • Review your answers and make any necessary corrections.
  • Submit your quiz for grading.
Tutorial: How to Design a Primary Cementing Program
Reinforce your understanding of primary cementing by following this tutorial. You will learn about the different factors that affect cementing design and how to create a successful cementing program.
Show steps
  • Watch the video tutorial provided by your instructor.
  • Take notes on the key concepts covered in the tutorial.
  • Complete the practice exercises at the end of the tutorial.
  • Ask your instructor any questions you have about the content.
Develop a Well Planning Proposal
Test your knowledge of drilling operations by creating a well planning proposal. This will give you an opportunity to apply your skills in a practical setting and develop a comprehensive plan for drilling a well.
Show steps
  • Gather data on the well location and geology.
  • Design the drilling program.
  • Select the drilling equipment and materials.
  • Estimate the cost of drilling the well.
  • Prepare a written proposal outlining your plan.

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Oil and Gas Drilling will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Drilling Engineer
Drilling Engineers are responsible for the safe and efficient planning and execution of drilling operations. They work closely with other engineers and geologists to design and implement drilling plans, and they oversee the day-to-day operations of drilling rigs. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the drilling process, from the basics of drilling rig design to the more advanced topics of petroleum geology and drill string design. By taking this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills you need to succeed as a Drilling Engineer.
Petroleum Engineer
Petroleum Engineers are responsible for the development and production of oil and gas resources. They work with geologists to identify and assess potential oil and gas reservoirs, and they design and implement drilling and production plans. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles of petroleum geology and drilling operations, which will be essential for your success as a Petroleum Engineer. By taking this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills you need to enter this exciting and rewarding field.
Reservoir Engineer
Reservoir Engineers are responsible for the evaluation and management of oil and gas reservoirs. They use mathematical models to simulate reservoir performance and to predict future production rates. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles of petroleum geology and reservoir engineering, which will be essential for your success as a Reservoir Engineer. By taking this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills you need to enter this challenging and rewarding field.
Production Engineer
Production Engineers are responsible for the operation and maintenance of oil and gas production facilities. They work with other engineers and geologists to optimize production rates and reduce operating costs. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of oil and gas production, including the design and operation of production facilities. By taking this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills you need to succeed as a Production Engineer.
Mud Engineer
Mud Engineers are responsible for the design and maintenance of drilling fluids. Drilling fluids are used to lubricate and cool the drill bit, and to remove cuttings from the wellbore. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of drilling fluids, including their composition, properties, and applications. By taking this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills you need to succeed as a Mud Engineer.
Drilling Supervisor
Drilling Supervisors are responsible for the day-to-day operations of drilling rigs. They work with Drilling Engineers to ensure that drilling operations are conducted safely and efficiently. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the drilling process, from the basics of drilling rig design to the more advanced topics of petroleum geology and drill string design. By taking this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills you need to succeed as a Drilling Supervisor.
Cementing Engineer
Cementing Engineers are responsible for the design and execution of cementing operations. Cementing operations are used to isolate formations, prevent fluid migration, and to protect the wellbore. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of cementing, including the composition, properties, and applications of cement. By taking this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills you need to succeed as a Cementing Engineer.
Logger
Loggers are responsible for the acquisition and interpretation of well logs. Well logs are used to evaluate the properties of formations, including their porosity, permeability, and fluid content. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of well logging, including the different types of logs and their applications. By taking this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills you need to succeed as a Logger.
Operations Geologist
Operations Geologists are responsible for the geological support of drilling and production operations. They work with other engineers and geologists to identify and assess potential oil and gas reservoirs, and they provide geological advice on drilling and production plans. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles of petroleum geology and drilling operations, which will be essential for your success as an Operations Geologist. By taking this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills you need to enter this exciting and rewarding field.
Drilling Consultant
Drilling Consultants are independent professionals who provide advice and expertise to oil and gas companies on all aspects of drilling operations. They may be involved in the design and planning of drilling programs, the selection of drilling equipment, or the troubleshooting of drilling problems. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the drilling process, from the basics of drilling rig design to the more advanced topics of petroleum geology and drill string design. By taking this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills you need to succeed as a Drilling Consultant.
Well Control Specialist
Well Control Specialists are responsible for the prevention and control of wellbore pressure. They work with other engineers and geologists to develop and implement well control plans, and they are responsible for responding to well control emergencies. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of well control, including the causes and prevention of wellbore pressure problems. By taking this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills you need to succeed as a Well Control Specialist.
HSE Manager
HSE Managers are responsible for the development and implementation of health, safety, and environmental (HSE) policies and procedures. They work with other managers and employees to ensure that all operations are conducted in a safe and environmentally responsible manner. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of HSE management, including the identification and assessment of HSE risks, and the development and implementation of HSE programs. By taking this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills you need to succeed as an HSE Manager.
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineers are responsible for the protection of the environment from the impacts of oil and gas operations. They work with other engineers and scientists to develop and implement environmental protection measures, and they monitor the environmental performance of oil and gas operations. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of environmental engineering, including the identification and assessment of environmental impacts, and the development and implementation of environmental protection measures. By taking this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills you need to succeed as an Environmental Engineer.
Civil Engineer
Civil Engineers are responsible for the design and construction of infrastructure projects, such as roads, bridges, and buildings. They work with other engineers and architects to design and construct infrastructure that is safe, efficient, and environmentally sustainable. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of civil engineering, including the design and construction of roads, bridges, and buildings. By taking this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills you need to succeed as a Civil Engineer.
Geotechnical Engineer
Geotechnical Engineers are responsible for the design and construction of foundations and other structures in soil and rock. They work with other engineers and geologists to assess the properties of soil and rock, and they design and construct foundations that will support the weight of buildings and other structures. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of geotechnical engineering, including the properties of soil and rock, and the design and construction of foundations. By taking this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills you need to succeed as a Geotechnical Engineer.

Reading list

We've selected six books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Introduction to Oil and Gas Drilling.
This comprehensive handbook of drilling engineering contains a vast amount of information useful to both seasoned engineers and students new to the field. While not neceesarily intended as a primary textbook, most students who are serious about a career in drilling will want an accessible resource such as this one.
A recommended addition to any petroleum engineering library, this handbook provides an extensive amount of usable engineering information. This third edition contains more than 200 pages of additional information.
While primarily focused on reservoir engineering, this third edition of the Reservoir Engineering Handbook provides readers with valuable reference material for most aspects and components of the drilling process, thus making it a useful complement to the training provided by this course.
Although this book will be of the most value to students and petroleum engineers working with petroleum reservoirs, every drilling engineer should at least be familiar with the concepts of petroleum reservoir engineering.
This resource book covers production engineering and its association with well productivity, and may be of interest to practicing petroleum production engineers, reservoir engineers, and can also be used as a texbook.

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