The University of Oklahoma's tradition of excellence in energy education dates back to 1919 when the first degree in geological engineering was awarded. Since then more than 5,000 petroleum and geological engineering students have graduated from OU, surpassing all but two other programs in the country. On May 5, 2000, the University of Oklahoma Board of Regents approved a new name for the School, the Mewbourne School of Petroleum and Geological Engineering in honor of alumnus and industry leader Curtis W. Mewbourne. Mewbourne and his family have made the largest gift in College of Engineering history, resulting in a fully endowed school and first named school in the OU College of Engineering. 

The Mewbourne School of Petroleum & Geological Engineering is consistently rated among the top five petroleum engineering programs in the country. The School has placed 100% of the students graduating with a bachelor's degree for the past several years. MPGE graduates also command the top average starting salary on campus. 

As a leading petroleum research institution, the School has attracted an eminent faculty.  Five faculty members have received the Society of Petroleum Engineering's Distinguished Achievement Award, and three have served SPE as Distinguished Lecturers. Eight OU graduates have served as president of SPE. 

Strong traditions, commitment to student success, and responsiveness to industry needs give the University of Oklahoma Mewbourne School of Petroleum and Geological Engineering its distinctive character. Teaching, research, and service are inseparable components of our academic mission. Intellectual currents form and flow in abundant variety, fostering the spirit of educational innovation that has distinguished this program since its earliest days. 

Mewbourne School of Petroleum and Geological Engineering A School for Leaders