Become a Leader in Historic Preservation

Transform Communities and Protect History

Uplift the past to shape the future: that is what Historic Preservation is all about.

Our Mission

Managing change of our inherited built environment is the core task of the Historic Preservation field. The question is not simply how we do this—through conservation, design, storytelling, writing policies—but for whom, and to what end?

People standing in front of an old church with an installation in windows

STEM-Eligible

Our customizable curriculum bridges theory and practice at a world-class university. Gain the skills to be not just a thought leader but a change maker in your community and beyond.

Why study Historic Preservation?

A degree in preservation will open you up to a fulfilling career where you can shape the stories we tell about buildings, communities, and our built environments. At Penn you can learn the tools of the trade, from specialized equipment and software, to using local policies to uplift your community.

Cultural heritage is all around us. Will you be a part of the growing field of preservation professionals ensuring it is here for generations?

Who are these programs for?

What You Will Learn

Our curriculum gives you hands-on experience with the skills employers are looking for, like laser scanning, deed research, GIS, HABS standards, Section 106, community engagement, writing historic register nominations, and more.

A group of students looking at an image on a tablet

Take the first step

Hear from our alums

Headshot of Calvin “I chose Penn’s preservation program because it has so many great faculty members that cover so many facets of the preservation practice. During my time here, it really felt like I was exposed to and had the opportunity to pursue all sides of historic preservation.” Calvin Nguyen (MSHP’23) Preservation Coordinator, Indiana Landmarks
Headshot of Holly “When you’re working full-time, you just don't have the time or resources to do research that deeply. So, the program gave me the opportunity to really dig into a topic that I cared about.” Holly Boyer (MSD-HP’19) Historical Architect, Independence National Historical Park
Important Program Dates

January 14, 2026
Application Deadline

August 3, 2026
Summer Institute Begins

August 25, 2026
Fall Classes Start

Book group

Meet the people of Historic Preservation