Energy Business, M.E.B.

Learning Objectives

The students completing the Master of Energy Business program will:

• possess a clear and in-depth understanding of the contemporary settings within which energy business is conducted.
• know how things work within energy companies, on both a macro and micro level, and comprehend the interrelationships among the main business, scientific, and technical functions.
• understand the relationships among energy policy, governmental regulation, economic development, competition, technological innovation, evolving markets and corporate and environmental sustainability.
• perceive the energy industry as a total system whose individual components must be optimally integrated to power economies and improve the social welfare of people around the world.
• be prepared to assume management positions of increasing responsibility in energy companies, and have the multidisciplinary skills necessary to address typical managerial situations and justify operational decisions.
• perform their duties ethically and responsibly from a personal, corporate, societal, and global perspective.

Admission

Applicants to the Master of Energy Business program must have completed a baccalaureate degree at an approved university in a discipline that is complementary to energy business (e.g., engineering, geosciences, business, pre-law) and must have a minimum of two years of work experience in a professional setting, preferably within a segment of the energy industry.

Applicants who lack academic training and/or experience in the energy industry may be considered; if accepted, these students will be required to complete foundational training prior to entering the program. Foundation requirements may include undergraduate coursework in economics and/or statistics, plus demonstrated Excel literacy.  In particular, candidates who are underprepared in quantitative methods or who have limited knowledge of the technical disciplines within the energy industry will be expected to satisfy a leveling requirement. With prior approval of the Program Director, the leveling requirement may be satisfied in a number of ways, such as:

• Completion of traditional classroom courses on the campus of The University of Tulsa or at another university.
• Completion of online courses offered through The University of Tulsa or another university.
• Completion of approved commercially-available or industry-sponsored short-courses.
• Passing a proficiency exam following self-study preparation.

A completed application, along with an application fee, must be submitted to the Graduate School along with:

• statement of purpose,
• official transcripts from all educational institutions the applicant has previously attended,
• a resume of professional work experience,
• acceptable TOEFL or IELTS scores (for applicants without a previous degree from a country in which English is the primary language),
• three writing samples pertaining to topics of interest to energy business, and
• a letter of support from the applicant’s current employer (if the applicant is employed) or from an individual who has been the applicant’s immediate supervisor within the last two years.

An acceptable GMAT score obtained within five years of the application date or equivalent evidence of ability to complete the program is also required. Applicants with substantial experience may petition to have the GMAT requirement waived.

Applications are reviewed by an admissions committee which will evaluate the documentation and evidence submitted by each candidate. Acceptance is based on a holistic review of prior academic achievement, personal motivation, work experience, and related qualifications that point to the likelihood of success. Other supporting materials may be submitted by the applicant or requested by the admissions committee. The admissions committee may also request an interview.

Curriculum Requirements

The Master of Energy Business is a 34-credit-hour program, encompassing ten required courses and two electives. Electives can be judiciously selected to create a focus area in energy law, energy finance and economics, or corporate strategy and commercial development. A thesis is not required.

Students enter the program in the fall, spring, or summer and enroll in two courses each semester year-round (fall, spring, summer). The degree can be completed within 24 months. Students who take fewer than two courses per academic term can expect degree completion to take longer.

Satisfactory Progress

A candidate for the Master of Energy Business degree is expected to complete the program in a timely manner. All requirements for the degree must be completed within six years from the first date of enrollment in the program. Students who do not make satisfactory progress may be dismissed from the program.

Additional Fees

From time to time instructors in online courses may use outside testing services and/or facilities, either online of at physical locations away from the TU campus. In these cases, students are expected to bear the cost of completing tests or assignments involving such arrangements.