Two Scottish universities are offering students the opportunity to study — for free — towards an MSc in Oil and Gas Innovation.

Robert Gordon University (RGU) (www.rgu.ac.uk) and the University of Aberdeen (www.abdn.ac.uk) will offer seven fully funded places to Scottish and EU students in the next academic year, as part of an initiative by the Scottish Funding Council to provide 30 places at five Scottish universities that deliver the programme.

Co-ordinated by the University of Aberdeen, the Masters degree course is a collaboration between the Oil & Gas Innovation Centre and Scottish universities to develop new technologies in exploration, production and decommissioning.

According to an RGU statement, “the degree is aimed at graduates and individuals with industry experience or who are part of companies with innovative ideas that they wish to develop”.

While primarily research-led, it will include modules on business innovation and technical modules related to the specific areas of research being pursued by candidates.

Mamdud Hossain of RGU’s School of Engineering said: “This MSc will focus on nurturing the innovation that the oil and gas industry needs to push it forward in the coming years; it is a great opportunity for those looking to establish or develop their career in the sector.”