EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The Structural Interpretation in Petroleum Exploration & Development course provides a comprehensive understanding of structural geology principles applied to hydrocarbon exploration and field development. It focuses on interpreting subsurface structures that control trap formation, reservoir geometry, and hydrocarbon distribution. The course explains how tectonic processes shape sedimentary basins and influence petroleum systems. Participants learn to recognize and interpret faults, folds, fractures, and structural styles. Emphasis is placed on integrating seismic interpretation with geological reasoning. The course highlights the role of structural interpretation in reducing exploration and development risk. Practical workflows are introduced for mapping and structural modeling. Learners develop confidence in interpreting complex subsurface structures. This course establishes a strong foundation for advanced structural analysis in petroleum projects.

INTRODUCTION

The Structural Interpretation in Petroleum Exploration & Development course is designed to build essential skills in subsurface structural analysis. It introduces the fundamental concepts of structural geology relevant to petroleum systems. The course explains how stress regimes and tectonic settings influence structural styles. Participants learn the relationship between structure, stratigraphy, and reservoir behavior. The program emphasizes the importance of accurate structural interpretation in exploration success. It covers the use of seismic data and structural maps in development planning. The course highlights common structural traps and their characteristics. Concepts are presented in a logical and progressive sequence. The scope supports both academic understanding and applied industry practice.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

Participants will achieve the following objectives by the Structural Interpretation in Petroleum Exploration & Development course:

• Understand the principles of structural geology in sedimentary basins.
• Explain tectonic processes controlling basin evolution.
• Identify and classify faults, folds, and fractures.
• Interpret structural styles in different tectonic settings.
• Analyze fault geometry and displacement.
• Evaluate structural traps and sealing capacity.
• Integrate seismic interpretation with geological models.
• Construct structural maps and cross sections.
• Assess structural uncertainty and geological risk.
• Apply structural interpretation to exploration and development decisions.
• These objectives are clearly defined, measurable, achievable, and aligned with professional petroleum exploration and development workflows, ensuring participants gain practical and transferable structural interpretation skills.

TARGET AUDIENCE

This Structural Interpretation in Petroleum Exploration & Development program targets a professional audience seeking to improve knowledge and skills:

• Geology graduates entering the petroleum industry.
• Exploration and development geologists.
• Geophysicists working with seismic data.
• Reservoir engineers seeking structural understanding.
• Subsurface team members.
• Energy sector professionals.
• Academic researchers in structural geology.
• Technical staff involved in subsurface mapping.

COURSE OUTLINE

Day 1: Fundamentals of Structural Geology

• Definition and scope of structural geology.
• Stress, strain, and deformation concepts.
• Types of tectonic stress regimes.
• Brittle and ductile deformation.
• Structural elements in sedimentary basins.
• Scale of structural features.
• Role of structure in petroleum systems.

Day 2: Faults and Fractures

• Classification of faults.
• Normal, reverse, and strike-slip faults.
• Fault geometry and kinematics.
• Growth faults and synsedimentary deformation.
• Fracture systems and orientations.
• Fault sealing and leakage concepts.
• Impact of faults on reservoirs.
• Mapping faults from seismic data.

Day 3: Folds and Structural Styles

• Types of folds and folding mechanisms.
• Fold geometry and terminology.
• Structural styles in compressional settings.
• Structural styles in extensional settings.
• Inversion tectonics.
• Salt-related structures.
• Interaction between folding and faulting.
• Structural style prediction.

Day 4: Seismic-Based Structural Interpretation

• Principles of seismic interpretation for structure.
• Identification of reflectors and discontinuities.
• Fault interpretation techniques.
• Horizon interpretation and correlation.
• Time and depth structural mapping.
• Construction of structural cross sections.
• Structural uncertainty in seismic data.
• Quality control of interpreted structures.

Day 5: Structural Interpretation in Exploration and Development

• Structural traps and hydrocarbon accumulation.
• Structural control on reservoir compartmentalization.
• Role of structure in field development planning.
• Integration of structure with stratigraphy and petrophysics.
• Risk assessment in structurally complex areas.
• Structural modeling concepts.
• Case-based structural interpretation workflows.
• Review and integration of course concepts.

COURSE DURATION

This Structural Interpretation in Petroleum Exploration & Development 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 Structural Interpretation in Petroleum Exploration & Development course is delivered by expert trainers worldwide, bringing global experience and best practices.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1- Who should attend this Structural Interpretation in Petroleum Exploration & Development course?

This course is suitable for geoscientists and professionals involved in subsurface exploration and field development.

2- What are the key benefits of this Structural Interpretation in Petroleum Exploration & Development training?

It enhances the ability to interpret subsurface structures and reduce geological risk.

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 Structural Interpretation in Petroleum Exploration & Development course provides essential skills for understanding subsurface structures. It strengthens the ability to interpret faults, folds, and tectonic styles accurately. Participants gain practical workflows applicable to exploration and development projects. The course supports confident geological decision-making in complex structural settings. It offers long-term professional value in petroleum geoscience careers.