Historic Preservation
The Historic Preservation Master of Science program at Pennsylvania University is a comprehensive and academically rigorous degree that explores the intersection of heritage, architecture, planning, and sustainability. Designed for individuals passionate about protecting and interpreting the built environment, this two-year full-time program blends theoretical knowledge with applied practice. Students gain a deep understanding of historical significance, architectural conservation, cultural landscapes, and preservation law. The curriculum encourages interdisciplinary learning by incorporating insights from architecture, archaeology, planning, and materials science.
Throughout the program, students engage with real-world projects, field surveys, and hands-on studio work that simulate the complexities of preservation in urban and rural contexts. Pennsylvania University offers access to a wide network of historic sites, archives, and preservation professionals, providing students with invaluable resources and mentorship. By combining academic rigor with practical experience, the program prepares graduates to play an active role in shaping how communities value and protect their cultural and architectural heritage.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Historic Preservation
- Degree Type: Master of Science
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 08 January 2026
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: Landscape Architecture
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations in Preservation
- History and Theory of Historic Preservation
- Documentation and Survey of Historic Sites
- Conservation Science and Materials
- Introduction to Preservation Planning
Semester 2 – Practice and Interpretation
- Preservation Law and Public Policy
- Cultural Landscapes and Urban Heritage
- Studio: Building Analysis and Documentation
- Elective: Architectural History or Urban Design
Semester 3 – Advanced Research and Fieldwork
- Adaptive Reuse and Sustainable Design
- Community Engagement in Preservation
- Field Project: Site Evaluation and Proposal
- Seminar: Global Approaches to Conservation
Semester 4 – Thesis and Professional Preparation
- Master’s Thesis Research and Writing
- Professional Ethics and Practice in Preservation
- Digital Tools in Heritage Documentation
- Portfolio Review and Oral Defense
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Historic Preservation Master’s program are equipped with the analytical, technical, and design-based skills necessary to pursue impactful careers across a wide spectrum of preservation-related fields. Alumni often find roles within government heritage agencies, architectural conservation firms, nonprofit organizations, urban planning departments, and cultural resource management consultancies. Their work may include restoring historic structures, shaping preservation policies, leading site documentation efforts, or advising on adaptive reuse strategies. With a strong grounding in both local and international conservation principles, graduates are prepared to operate in global contexts—consulting on preservation projects, contributing to planning frameworks, and engaging in interdisciplinary collaborations. The university’s strong links with heritage organizations and public sector bodies also provide graduates with direct pipelines to internships and employment, enabling them to transition confidently into professional roles or doctoral-level study.
Why Choose This Program
This program offers a rare balance between academic scholarship and practical application, making it an ideal choice for students who seek both intellectual depth and professional readiness. With its interdisciplinary curriculum, hands-on studio work, and direct exposure to real-world heritage challenges, students experience preservation as a living, evolving practice—not just a theoretical pursuit. The university’s urban location provides access to a rich array of historic resources, neighborhoods, and institutions, all of which serve as living laboratories for exploration. Students benefit from expert faculty, specialized archives, and advanced digital tools for documentation and research. Most importantly, the program fosters a critical and inclusive understanding of heritage, encouraging students to address contemporary issues such as climate change, social equity, and sustainable development within preservation contexts. Those who choose this program gain not only technical expertise, but also a broader vision of how historic preservation contributes to resilient, culturally rich communities.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
