Petroleum Processing Technology Series

The Petroleum Processing Technology Series is designed to give a broad understanding of the operational techniques of petroleum processing, and the function and construction of the plant and equipment used in the processing of petroleum reservoir fluids. 

The series consists of 10 units, as detailed below; 

• Oil and gas separation 
• Gas dehydration 
• Petroleum gas compression 
• Natural gas liquids recovery 
• Oil pumping and metering 
• Water injection 
• Produced water treatment 
• Gas flow 
• Process flow and piping and instrument diagrams 
• Oil treatment (dehydration). 

These self-study units enable the learners to progress through learning materials at their own pace. The study time needed will vary per unit, and from one learner to another. We recommend between 20 - 40 hours for each unit. 

Learners can register for units individually or enrol for the complete series. Units are non-transferrable and can only be assigned to one learner. There is no registration or examination fee. In order to be registered to sit the exam, the learner must have purchased each unit. The learner has one month to complete their examination from the date that they register to complete the exam. Learners must achieve 60% or more on both sections of the examination to be successful.  

From 1st of May 2024, there is a set end date for all open learning courses. To achieve the full product certificate, all units must be completed within a five-year timeframe. Registration for exams close after this timeframe. If a learner opts to complete the full product after this five-year period, they must repurchase all units. 

Previous learners who purchased any unit(s) before 1st of May 2024 also have five years from this date to complete the full product certificate. All units within a product must be completed by 1^st May 2029, to achieve the full product certificate.  

Each successful exam contributes to one OPITO unit certificate towards ‘The Certificate in Petroleum Processing Technology ' full programme, accredited City and Guilds. The full product certificate is awarded after successful completion of all 10 units. City and Guilds no longer issue hard copy certificates and e-certificates and are replaced by OPITO's electronic certificates. 

Units are presented in a digital workbook PDF. 

Workbooks contain: 

• Syllabus breakdown. 
• Training targets for learners to achieve by the end of each unit. 
• ‘Test yourself’ questions. 
• ‘Check yourself’ answers. 
• Workbook activities. 
• Chapter summaries. 

The Petroleum Processing Technology series is valuable to: 

• New starts and experienced staff looking to gain an industry recognised qualification, or who wish to refresh their knowledge of petroleum processing technology. 
• Managers and supervisors of oil, service and manufacturing companies looking to gain a solid knowledge base. 
• New technical or engineering graduates. 
• Administrative staff that require an introduction to the technical background and technical language. 

Learners are registered on an online assessment platform to complete their 2-hour closed book examination. This will connect to proctoring software that will record and monitor learners during their examination. The software has replaced in person invigilation to allow more flexible exam options.  

The proctoring software records all movement and audio, along with any web search made during the examination.  The learner’s video, audio, and desktop are verified before launching the examination. Printing, downloads and right click functionality are disabled for the duration of the examination. Learners are also limited to the use of one screen.  

The examination comprises two sections. Section A has 20 short questions similar to the ‘Test Yourself’ in the workbooks. Section B comprises three questions, of which two questions must be answered. 

Pass Marks: 

60% - 74% - Pass 

75% - 84% - Credit 

85% - 100% - Distinction 

If learners do not achieve the required pass mark (60%) a re-sit exam can be arranged at no extra cost. Should learners require a re-sit of the same unit more than once, there will be an examination fee of £30.00 GBP. 

Examination Tips 

The learner should: 

• Read and understand what is being asked by the questions. 
• Some questions have more than one answer. 
• Check your answer for errors. 
• When taking exams, it's crucial for learners to thoroughly understand and address the questions asked. Often, learners may identify keywords in a question and write everything they know about that topic without considering the specific task outlined.  
• Before writing responses, learners should carefully read the questions, plan their answers, and ensure they fully address all aspects of the question. Well-planned answers demonstrate a structured and professional approach. Responses must be clear and directly relevant to the question.  
• It's essential to address all components of the question and the use of workplace-specific abbreviations should be avoided. Only piping and valve symbols provided in the Open Learning study book are acceptable. Marks will be deducted for incorrect symbols.  

Examination Procedures 

• The procedure for sitting the examination online can be viewed here.

Each digital PDF unit varies in price from £150 to £230 GBP. 

Payment can be made using: 

• Sage pay (card payment) 
• An authorised company Purchase Order. 

Terms and Conditions 

All sales are final and non-refundable. Once a product is purchased, we cannot offer any refunds, exchanges or returns. By completing your purchase, you agree to these terms. This No Refund Policy is subject to change without notice. If you have any questions or concerns about our No Refund Policy, please contact our open learning team at pol@opito.com or the following address: 

OPITO Ltd  
Minerva House 
Bruntland Road 
Aberdeen 
AB124QL 
reception@opito.com 
01224787800