The thesis is a requirement for the Master of Science in Historic Preservation and a foundation of the Department of Historic Preservation’s curriculum. Mastery of the research process is essential for professional success and the progressive evolution of the field. The thesis is therefore required as a capstone course intended to demonstrate competency in the field, accomplishment in a chosen area of specialization, and the capacity to perform independent research.
Thesis topics are chosen according to several criteria: the topic is relevant to an individual’s interests and capabilities; it reflects the preparedness acquired through the program’s core and elective courses; it contributes to the intellectual capital of the preservation field. Theses are built on original research, and in some cases original design work or laboratory experimentation.
Individually and collectively, the hundreds of Penn Preservation theses represent an impressive intellectual achievement – and a good reflection on the intellectual and practical questions driving preservation practice.
View and download the Historic Preservation Theses collected on Scholarly Commons.
Search for topics and read abstracts in the Historic Preservation Thesis Database.
