University of Maryland

Overview

The University of Maryland offers a unique dual-degree program through its School of Architecture, Planning, and Preservation, combining the fields of historic preservation and real estate development. This interdisciplinary approach equips students with the expertise needed to navigate the complexities of preserving historical sites while also engaging in real estate development.

The program is structured as a 60-credit curriculum, typically completed in a full-time format over five semesters, including courses during both winter and summer terms.

What you'll study

The curriculum merges preservation-focused courses with practical training in real estate development. Students will complete a variety of required courses in both disciplines, culminating in a capstone project that integrates both areas of study.

• Historic Preservation (core)
  • History, Theory, and Practice of Historic Preservation
  • Conservation of Historic Places: Historic Materials, Building Systems, and Conservation
  • American Vernacular Architecture
• Real Estate Development (core)
  • Principles and Practice of Real Property Development
  • Market Analysis for Real Property Development
  • Essentials of Design and Construction Management for Development Professionals
• Capstone / Final Project
  • A coordinated project that fulfills requirements for both Historic Preservation and Real Estate Development, allowing students to demonstrate their acquired skills and knowledge.
  • Students are encouraged to collaborate with program directors early on to define the project scope and evaluation criteria.

Entry requirements

Admission to the program involves a comprehensive review of the applicant's academic background and application materials. There are no fixed GRE/GMAT scores or minimum GPA thresholds specified for admission.

Applicants whose previous education was not conducted in English must demonstrate proficiency by providing scores from accepted English language tests. Minimum scores required include:

• TOEFL iBT: 96
• IELTS (overall): 7.0
• PTE Academic: 68

Prospective students should ensure their test date complies with the university’s validity period requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates of this dual-degree program are well-prepared for diverse career opportunities in both historic preservation and real estate development. They may pursue roles in government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private sector firms that focus on urban planning, heritage conservation, real estate management, and development projects. The integration of these fields allows for a comprehensive understanding of how to balance preservation with modern development needs, making graduates valuable assets in the job market.