Geothermal Engineering

As the global energy sector moves toward net-zero emissions by 2050, geothermal energy is becoming an increasingly important source of renewable energy. The University of Regina offers the only Master’s Certificate in Geothermal Engineering in Canada, equipping you with the specialized skills to thrive in Saskatchewan’s and Canada’s evolving energy sector. Stand out in this growing field and help shape the future of renewable energy.

You’ll be part of the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science’s long-standing geothermal research legacy, which began in 1979 with the construction of an exploratory geothermal test well. This research generated valuable insights into geothermal energy as a viable power source, resulting in over 40 published papers and making significant contributions to Canada’s geothermal energy development.

With Canada’s vast geothermal potential and increasing financial support from the federal government, the number of commercial projects and pilot studies in Saskatchewan, Alberta, and British Columbia is growing. Developing geothermal projects requires a diverse team of engineers—including geologists, mechanical engineers, drilling engineers, petroleum engineers, and environmental engineers—at every phase of plant development.

By earning your Master’s Certificate in Geothermal Engineering, you’ll gain the expertise to be part of this growing industry and help drive the future of sustainable energy.

Is the Certificate in Geothermal Engineering Right for You?

This certificate program is designed for graduate students in Master of Engineering (MEng) or Master of Applied Science (MASc) programs who are interested in geothermal exploration, development, and production. You can earn this certificate as you work toward completing your graduate degree, giving you an additional credential to stand out in the energy industry.

You can also embed the Master’s Certificate in Geothermal Engineering within your MASc in Petroleum Systems Engineering or your MEng in Petroleum Systems Engineering (project or co-op route).

What is Geothermal Engineering?

Geothermal energy is the heat stored beneath the Earth's surface, harnessed for sustainable energy production. This energy, originating from the Earth’s natural processes like volcanic activity and radioactive decay, can be used for electricity generation, direct heating, and cooling.

Geothermal engineering is the field dedicated to developing and managing systems that utilize this energy. It involves specialized knowledge in geothermal reservoir modeling, plant design, drilling techniques, and energy conversion. Geothermal engineers work with advanced technologies to capture the Earth’s heat and convert it into usable energy, while also addressing the environmental and economic impacts of geothermal projects. This certificate combines practical applications with in-depth study of geothermal energy production, sustainability, and integration with other renewable energy systems.

ENPE 827 - Fundamentals of Geothermal Engineering (Mandatory Course)

This course covers fundamental and advanced aspects of geothermal engineering on various topics, including the coupling of fluid flow and thermal process in porous medium, geothermal reservoir modelling, software application, geothermal technology using closed-loop and enhanced geothermal system (EGS), and systematic usage of geothermal energy and its relationship with other renewable energy.

ENPE 825 - Geothermal Simulation and Plant Design (Elective)

Introduction to pressure, temperature, and flow models in geothermal reservoirs, as well as analysis. Basic equipment and design for dry team, single/double flash, and binary cycle geothermal power plants. Rankine/Kalina cycles are used to analyze and improve plant thermodynamic efficiency. Environmental, economic, and social effects of plants.

ENPE 824 - Surface Facilities and Energy Conversion (Elective)

Geothermal power plants require high-temperature hydrothermal resources that come from dry steam or hot water wells. Thus, this course covers the surface facilities required for producing and utilizing hydrothermal resources. Moreover, geothermal energy should be converted to other forms of energy to do useful work, and hence an understanding of the energy conversion, process, and storage is necessary.

ENPE 828 - Drilling and Production for Geothermal Engineering (Elective)

This course is designed to foster participants’ knowledge in the area of design, characteristics, and application of drilling fluids and their rheology, circulation system, casing, cementing, vertical and directional drilling, bottomhole assembly and completion, zone isolation, etc. in high-temperature and high-pressure (HPHT)/deep formations. Production from geothermal resources and high temperature zones and corresponding bottomhole infrastructures will be explained. Production analysis, optimization, and challenges related to both drilling and production from HPHT zones will be included. Pressure drop calculations during both drilling and production as well as decline analysis and lifting systems are included.

ENIN 880CM - Renewable Energy Technology (Elective)

Introduction of renewable energy technologies for energy-production. Course topics include basic fossil fuel-based technology, biomass technology, solar-based technology, hydro technology, geothermal technology, wind and tidal-based technology.