UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · UNITED STATES
Master of Science in Design: Historic Preservation (MSD-HP)
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€71k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 1 yearProgram Duration
- 10 course unitsTotal Course Units
- Post-professional trainingTarget Audience
The Master of Science in Design with a concentration in Historic Preservation (MSD-HP) is a one-year, post-professional program at the University of Pennsylvania's Stuart Weitzman School of Design. It is designed for practicing professionals who seek specialized training or a career change in historic preservation. The program requires completion of 10 course units over two full-time semesters. Admission to the MSD-HP program is for individuals holding a professional degree in design or planning fields such as architecture, landscape architecture, urban planning, or engineering. Applicants must also have at least three years of relevant professional experience. The curriculum is structured to allow for personalized study plans, including advanced thesis research or additional studio work, alongside core coursework.
Curriculum
The program requires 10 course units (c.u.) in total. Students must complete required core courses, historic preservation electives, and general electives. A professional degree in a design or planning field and at least three years of professional experience are prerequisites.
- Fall Semester
- The American Built EnvironmentHSPV 5210
- Digital Media IHSPV 6240
- Theories of Historic Preservation IHSPV 6600
- Contemporary Design in Historic SettingsHSPV 6400
- HSPV Elective IHSPV XXXX
- General Elective I
- Spring Semester
- Digital Media IIHSPV 6270
- Theories of Historic Preservation IIHSPV 6610
- Capstone StudioHSPV 7210
- HSPV Elective IIHSPV XXXX
- General Elective II
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Master of Science in Design: Historic Preservation program?
- You need a professional degree in a design or planning field (such as architecture, landscape architecture, or urban planning) from an accredited university, along with at least three years of relevant professional experience.
- What is the duration of the MSD-HP program?
- The Master of Science in Design: Historic Preservation is a one-year, post-professional program requiring the completion of 10 course units over two full-time semesters.
- How much does the MSD-HP program cost?
- For the 2026-2027 academic year, the estimated tuition is $41,652 per semester for 6 course units, totaling $83,304 for the degree. Additional estimated fees are $2,134 per semester for the General Fee and $385 per semester for the Clinical Fee.
- How do I apply to the MSD-HP program?
- You must apply directly to the MSD-HP program at the University of Pennsylvania's Stuart Weitzman School of Design. You will need to submit academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and a portfolio.
- What are the career prospects after completing this program?
- This program is designed for professionals seeking specialization or a career change in historic preservation, preparing graduates for advanced roles in the conservation and management of cultural heritage.
Entry requirements
Professional DegreeA professional degree in design or planning fields (architecture, landscape architecture, interior architecture, urban planning, urban design, engineering, building science, or other related fields) from an accredited University.
Professional ExperienceAt least three years of professional experience.
All courses must be pre-approved by the student’s advisor prior to registration each semester. HSPV 7010 (Preservation Studio) can substitute for two electives. HSPV Thesis may substitute for 2 CUs, one each semester.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition is assessed per course unit (c.u.). For the 2026-2027 academic year, the estimated tuition is $41,652 per semester for 6 c.u., totaling $83,304 for the degree. This rate applies to both international and domestic students.
Tuition (home)Tuition is assessed per course unit (c.u.). For the 2026-2027 academic year, the estimated tuition is $41,652 per semester for 6 c.u., totaling $83,304 for the degree. This rate applies to both international and domestic students.
LivingInformation not provided.
The tuition rates are estimates for the Fall 2026 - Spring 2027 academic year and are subject to change. Additional fees include a General Fee ($2,134 per semester) and a Clinical Fee ($385 per semester). These fees support student services, wellness, and counseling resources.
How to apply
1. Apply Directly to the ProgramApplicants must apply directly to the MSD-HP program at the Stuart Weitzman School of Design. Penn accepts the Common Application and Coalition Application for graduate programs, though specific program requirements may vary. Check the program's specific application portal for details.
2. Submit Required DocumentsThis typically includes academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and a portfolio showcasing relevant work. Specific requirements and submission methods will be detailed on the program's admissions page.
3. Meet Admission CriteriaEnsure you meet the program's entry requirements, including a professional degree in a design or planning field and a minimum of three years of professional experience.
4. Await Admission DecisionThe program will review applications and notify candidates of their admission status.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Master of Science in Design: Historic Preservation program?
+
You need a professional degree in a design or planning field (such as architecture, landscape architecture, or urban planning) from an accredited university, along with at least three years of relevant professional experience.
What is the duration of the MSD-HP program?
+
The Master of Science in Design: Historic Preservation is a one-year, post-professional program requiring the completion of 10 course units over two full-time semesters.
How much does the MSD-HP program cost?
+
For the 2026-2027 academic year, the estimated tuition is $41,652 per semester for 6 course units, totaling $83,304 for the degree. Additional estimated fees are $2,134 per semester for the General Fee and $385 per semester for the Clinical Fee.
How do I apply to the MSD-HP program?
+
You must apply directly to the MSD-HP program at the University of Pennsylvania's Stuart Weitzman School of Design. You will need to submit academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and a portfolio.
What are the career prospects after completing this program?
+
This program is designed for professionals seeking specialization or a career change in historic preservation, preparing graduates for advanced roles in the conservation and management of cultural heritage.