Program Overview
Jefferson's MS in Historic Preservation equips graduates with skills in revitalizing historic structures, preserving cultural heritage, and fostering sustainable communities. The program emphasizes adaptive reuse, documentation, conservation, and engagement, preparing students for careers in the preservation sector, including roles in architecture, conservation, history, and planning. The STEM-designated program offers studio-based learning, expert faculty mentorship, and study abroad opportunities, leveraging Philadelphia's rich architectural heritage as a living laboratory.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The MS in Historic Preservation (MSHP) program at Jefferson prepares graduates to preserve historic buildings and sites, re-envisioning and repurposing the past to serve present and future needs. The program emphasizes the importance of historic preservation in maintaining cultural heritage and shaping sustainable communities.
Objectives:
- Equip students with the knowledge and skills to lead in the revitalization of historic buildings and sites.
- Develop research, documentation, and conservation skills necessary for successful preservation practice.
- Foster an understanding of the role of historic preservation in addressing issues of sustainability, climate change, and social justice.
- Prepare students for careers in historic preservation, including roles in private firms, non-profit organizations, and government agencies.
Program Description:
The MSHP program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers a wide range of topics, including:
- Adaptive Reuse and Urban Regeneration: Students explore the potential for reusing historic buildings and sites in contemporary contexts, considering factors such as sustainability, community needs, and design principles.
- Documentation and Forensics: Students learn advanced techniques for documenting historic structures, including traditional methods and emerging technologies like LiDAR, photogrammetry, and 3D modeling.
- Conservation and Preservation: Students gain hands-on experience in the conservation of historic materials and structures, focusing on ethical practices and sustainable approaches.
- Historic Preservation Theory and Practice: Students delve into the theoretical foundations of historic preservation, exploring its historical development, ethical considerations, and evolving role in society.
Teaching:
- Studio-based learning: The program emphasizes hands-on learning through studio-based courses, where students work on real-world projects for real clients.
- Faculty expertise: The program is led by experienced faculty members with expertise in various aspects of historic preservation, including architectural history, conservation, urban planning, and community engagement.
- Guest lectures and workshops: The program features guest lectures and workshops by leading professionals in the field, providing students with insights into current trends and best practices.
Careers:
- Preservation Architect: Design and oversee the preservation and rehabilitation of historic buildings.
- Architectural Conservator: Specialize in the conservation and restoration of historic materials and structures.
- Architectural Historian: Research and document the history of buildings and sites, providing context for preservation efforts.
- Preservation Planner: Develop and implement preservation plans for communities and neighborhoods.
Other:
- Philadelphia as a Living Laboratory: The program leverages the rich architectural heritage of Philadelphia, offering students access to a wide range of historic buildings and sites for study and research.
- Center for the Preservation of Modernism: The program includes a focus on the preservation of modern architecture, with opportunities to study and research this emerging field.
- Study Away Opportunities: Students can choose to study abroad at institutions like the Bauhaus Building in Dessau, Germany, the Terragni Archive in Como, Italy, the Preservation Institute in Nantucket, MA, or the University of Arkansas Rome Center (UARC).
- STEM Designation: The MS in Historic Preservation is a STEM designated program, providing graduates with potential benefits for visa applications and other opportunities.
- Advanced Placement for PhD Studies: Graduates of the MSHP program who are interested in pursuing a PhD in Architecture & Design Research at Jefferson can receive advanced placement of up to 18 credits.
