Education · 1 of 5

The path

One accredited degree, then straight into industry. Shorter than most careers that pay this much.

1. 1

   High school

   Grades 11 and 12

   Calculus, physics and chemistry, as strong as you can get them. Engineering admission is competitive on grades.

2. 2

   Bachelor of Science in petroleum engineering

   4 years

   Four years at a program accredited by ABET (the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology). Chemical and mechanical engineering degrees also get hired into the industry.

3. 3

   Internships every summer

   This is how almost everyone gets a first job. Companies hire from their own intern pool.

4. 4

   Fundamentals of Engineering exam

   One sitting

   The first national engineering exam, usually taken in your final year. It makes you an engineer in training.

5. 5

   First job, then optional licensure

   4 years after graduation

   Four years of supervised experience and the Principles and Practice of Engineering exam make you a licensed Professional Engineer.