This certificate program is designed for professionals working across the oil and gas industry—as well as those new to the sector—who want a clear, integrated understanding of how the industry operates. Whether you are building foundational knowledge or seeking broader context beyond your current role, the program offers a practical and accessible introduction to the forces shaping oil and gas today.
Over two immersive days, participants explore the scientific, engineering, commercial, and geopolitical drivers that influence oil and gas production and global markets. Through expert‑led instruction and real‑world perspectives, the course connects technical concepts with business and market realities, equipping participants with insights they can apply immediately.
Program Benefits:
Participants will:
- Build a solid understanding of the methods, processes, and technologies geologists and engineers use to find and produce oil and gas.
- Explore how finance, land management, marketing, and government regulations intersect across the value chain.
- Learn directly from industry experts on key topics such as drilling and production operations, surface and land issues, upstream marketing, and risk management.
Who Should Enroll:
This course is ideal for:
- New oil and gas employees
- Energy professionals from adjacent sectors
- Government officials and policymakers
- Individuals considering a career change
- Employees of energy services companies
Course Schedule:
Thursday, September 17 - Friday, September 18, 2026
Location: CU Denver Business School, 1475 Lawrence Street, Denver, CO 80202.
Day 1 - 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (SM Energy facilities/rig tour in the afternoon)
Day 2 - 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Breakfast and lunch for both days, as well as travel to the rig tour site, are included in the course cost.
Curriculum
This course delivers a comprehensive, high‑level introduction to the full oil and gas exploration and production lifecycle—from geology and land access to drilling, economics, and risk management. Led by industry experts in each discipline, the curriculum draws on real‑world experience to provide practical insight into how the industry operates. Participants also take part in a guided rig tour, offering a unique opportunity to see oil and gas operations firsthand and connect classroom concepts to real‑world practice.
Course topics include:
- Geology
- Land management
- Drilling and completions
- Marketing and trading
- Regulatory environment
- Oil and gas economics
- Landscape of energy
