University of Pennsylvania

Overview

The Master of Science in Design with a specialization in Historic Preservation (MSD-HP) at the University of Pennsylvania is a post-professional degree tailored for design practitioners seeking advanced training or a career transition in the field of historic preservation. This intensive program spans one calendar year, consisting of two full-time semesters and a hands-on studio-based capstone project.

• Degree: MSD-HP (Historic Preservation)
• Duration: 1 calendar year (two full-time semesters)
• Credits: 10 course units
• Delivery: Full-time on-campus (studio/capstone format)
• Curriculum: Core courses, historic preservation electives, and open electives (all require advisor pre-approval)
• Language of instruction: English
• English test options: IELTS, TOEFL iBT, or Duolingo English Test (minimum scores apply)
• Admissions: Open to post-professional applicants with a relevant degree and experience

What you'll study

The MSD-HP program is structured over two semesters, where students complete a total of 10 course units. This includes essential core courses, electives focused on historic preservation, and open electives, all of which require prior approval from an academic advisor.

• Required core (8 course units total):
  • HSPV 5210 The American Built Environment or a history elective
  • HSPV 6400 Contemporary Design in Historic Settings
  • HSPV 6600/6610 Theories of Historic Preservation
  • HSPV 6240/6270 Digital Media for Historic Preservation or another methods-focused course
  • HSPV 7210 Capstone Studio (2 course units)
• Electives (2 course units total):
  • Two historic preservation electives from approved HSPV offerings
  • Two open electives from approved courses outside the core, selected with advisor guidance
• Capstone: A studio-based capstone project that integrates design and preservation learning outcomes, allowing for advanced research directions with advisor approval.

Note: Course availability and elective options may vary, and students finalize their plans with their academic advisor each semester.

Entry requirements

Applicants are required to possess a professional degree in a design or planning discipline from an accredited institution, such as architecture, landscape architecture, urban planning, urban design, or a closely related field. Additionally, a minimum of three years of relevant professional experience is expected.

Specific GRE or GMAT requirements for this program are not publicly disclosed.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MSD-HP program are equipped to pursue diverse opportunities in the field of historic preservation, including roles in government agencies, non-profit organizations, private firms, and academic institutions. The program prepares students to engage with and contribute to the preservation and adaptive reuse of cultural heritage, while also fostering skills in design and critical thinking that are essential in the evolving landscape of architecture and urban planning.