Politecnico di Torino

Overview

The Master's Degree in Architecture for Heritage at Politecnico di Torino provides a comprehensive education for future architects focused on the preservation, enhancement, management, and communication of cultural heritage. This two-year, studio-led program emphasizes practical learning through real-world case studies, utilizing innovative design methods and advanced digital tools such as GIS and 3D modeling.

• Level: Master’s (2 years)
• Credits: Typically 120 ECTS
• Delivery: On-campus, studio- and project-based learning
• Focus: Architectural heritage preservation, enhancement, management, and communication
• Language of instruction: English
• Start date: Typically September
• Application: Submit required documents through the university application portal
• Tuition fees: Determined by the university and individual circumstances

What you'll study

The program is designed to guide students through a curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with practical application. Key components include:

Core learning areas

• Heritage history and urban context: Exploration of architectural history and urban development, including themes related to late twentieth-century architecture and preservation.
• Digital and spatial methods: Training in digital urban history, GIS, and 3D technologies as they apply to cultural heritage.
• Design for enhancement: Strategies for enhancing cultural heritage through innovative design proposals and project simulations.

Studios and applied work

• Theme Studios: Hands-on design work that merges research, analysis, and architectural proposals addressing heritage sites.
• Workshops and seminars: Engaging learning experiences that support studio projects and professional practice.
• Field visits: Opportunities to visit heritage locations, enriching case-study learning and providing context for design decisions.

Capstone / final project

• Final assessment: The program culminates in a final evaluation based on studio and project work, showcasing the knowledge and skills acquired throughout the course.

Entry requirements

To apply for the program, candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. If you are pursuing a "single cycle" Laurea magistrale (5 or 6 years) and have yet to graduate, you should have completed at least three years of study and obtained a minimum of 180 ECTS (or equivalent). Additionally, candidates with high school education completed after 10 or 11 years of schooling must have a total of at least 15 years of prior education. Admission decisions are based on meeting the specific curricular and quality requirements of the Master's program.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master's Degree in Architecture for Heritage are well-equipped to pursue careers in various fields related to cultural heritage. Potential career paths include roles in architectural firms, heritage conservation organizations, urban planning agencies, and cultural institutions, where they can apply their expertise in preserving and enhancing architectural heritage on a global scale.