EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The Fundamentals of Petroleum Geology course provides a comprehensive introduction to the geological principles governing the generation, migration, accumulation, and preservation of hydrocarbons. It establishes a clear understanding of how sedimentary basins form and evolve over geological time. The course explains the essential elements and processes of petroleum systems in a structured manner. Participants gain insight into the relationship between geology and hydrocarbon exploration success. Emphasis is placed on integrating stratigraphy, structural geology, and geochemistry. The program builds a strong foundation for understanding exploration and development workflows. Concepts are presented with clarity to support both technical learning and practical application. The course supports informed decision-making in subsurface evaluation. It serves as a fundamental platform for further specialization in petroleum-related disciplines.

INTRODUCTION

The Fundamentals of Petroleum Geology course is designed to introduce core geological concepts essential for the petroleum industry. It provides a structured overview of sedimentary processes and basin development. The course explains how source rocks, reservoirs, seals, and traps interact within petroleum systems. Participants learn the geological controls on hydrocarbon distribution. The program emphasizes the link between geological interpretation and exploration outcomes. It introduces the temporal and spatial evolution of petroleum systems. The course highlights the importance of geological uncertainty and risk assessment. Concepts are delivered progressively to build strong conceptual understanding. The scope supports both academic grounding and applied industry practice.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

Participants will achieve the following objectives by the Fundamentals of Petroleum Geology course:

• Understand the basic principles of petroleum geology.
• Explain the origin and classification of sedimentary basins.
• Identify the main elements of petroleum systems.
• Describe source rock formation and maturation.
• Recognize reservoir rock characteristics and quality controls.
• Explain seal capacity and trapping mechanisms.
• Understand hydrocarbon migration processes.
• Interpret the timing of petroleum system events.
• Integrate geological data for exploration evaluation.
• Support exploration and development decision-making.
• These objectives are clearly defined, measurable, achievable, and aligned with professional geological workflows, ensuring participants develop essential competencies that can be directly applied in exploration, appraisal, and development activities within the petroleum sector.

TARGET AUDIENCE

This Fundamentals of Petroleum Geology program targets a professional audience seeking to improve knowledge and skills:

• Geology graduates entering the energy sector.
• Junior exploration geologists.
• Development geologists.
• Geophysicists seeking geological grounding.
• Reservoir and petroleum engineers.
• Subsurface interpretation specialists.
• Energy sector professionals.
• Researchers in sedimentary and basin geology.

COURSE OUTLINE

Day 1: Introduction to Petroleum Geology and Sedimentary Basins

• Definition and scope of petroleum geology.
• Overview of the petroleum industry value chain.
• Earth structure and plate tectonics.
• Sedimentary basins and their classification.
• Basin formation mechanisms.
• Basin evolution through geological time.
• Relationship between basins and hydrocarbons.

Day 2: Source Rocks and Hydrocarbon Generation

• Organic matter origin and types.
• Depositional environments of source rocks.
• Kerogen classification.
• Thermal maturation processes.
• Hydrocarbon generation windows.
• Geochemical indicators of source rocks.
• Timing of generation relative to trap formation.
• Source rock evaluation concepts.

Day 3: Reservoir Rocks and Petrophysical Properties

• Definition of reservoir rocks.
• Clastic and carbonate reservoirs.
• Porosity and permeability concepts.
• Controls on reservoir quality.
• Diagenetic processes and their impact.
• Reservoir heterogeneity.
• Fluid types and distribution.
• Reservoir characterization fundamentals.

Day 4: Seals, Traps, and Hydrocarbon Migration

• Definition and types of seals.
• Capillary pressure and sealing capacity.
• Structural traps and mechanisms.
• Stratigraphic traps and combinations.
• Primary and secondary migration.
• Pathways and barriers to migration.
• Timing and preservation of accumulations.
• Risk factors related to traps and seals.

Day 5: Petroleum Systems and Exploration Concepts

• Elements of a petroleum system.
• Processes controlling petroleum systems.
• Petroleum system modeling concepts.
• Play and prospect definition.
• Geological risk assessment.
• Integration of geological and geophysical data.
• Exploration decision workflows.
• Review and synthesis of course concepts.

COURSE DURATION

This Fundamentals of Petroleum Geology course is available in different durations: 1 week (intensive training), 2 weeks (moderate pace with additional practice sessions), or 3 weeks (a comprehensive learning experience). The course can be attended in person or online, depending on the trainee's preference.

INSTRUCTOR INFORMATION

This Fundamentals of Petroleum Geology course is delivered by expert trainers worldwide, bringing global experience and best practices.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1- Who should attend this Fundamentals of Petroleum Geology course?

This course is suitable for professionals and graduates seeking a solid foundation in petroleum geology.

2- What are the key benefits of this Fundamentals of Petroleum Geology training?

It builds a strong understanding of petroleum systems and exploration fundamentals.

3—Do participants receive a certificate?

Yes, upon successful completion, all participants will receive a professional certification.

4- What language is the course delivered in?

English and Arabic.

5- Can I attend online?

Yes, you can attend in person, online, or in-house at your company.

CONCLUSION

The Fundamentals of Petroleum Geology course provides essential knowledge for understanding hydrocarbon systems. It strengthens the ability to interpret geological controls on exploration success. Participants gain structured insight into petroleum system elements and processes. The course supports confident and informed subsurface decision-making. It represents a valuable long-term foundation for careers in the petroleum industry.