Thomas Jefferson University United States

Historic Preservation (M.S.)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 2 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The M.S. in Historic Preservation at Thomas Jefferson University equips you to address the critical need for preserving and repurposing our built environment. In a world increasingly focused on sustainability and urban regeneration, this postgraduate program prepares you to understand the historical, cultural, and economic significance of existing structures. You will explore methodologies in building conservation, architectural history, and urban revitalization, developing the expertise necessary to become a leader in safeguarding heritage while shaping future development. This degree is ideal for those passionate about the intersection of history, design, and community impact.

This 49-credit Master of Science program is studied full-time on campus over two years, offering a flexible curriculum that allows you to tailor your studies through two distinct tracks: Documentation & Research or Preservation Design. You will engage with core subjects like Architectural Forensics, GIS, and Sustainable Design, with opportunities to specialize further through electives in areas such as Building Conservation or Urban Revitalization. A unique study abroad option allows you to explore modernist architecture at Germany's Bauhaus Building. You will graduate with a comprehensive understanding of preservation principles and practical skills for careers in heritage management, urban planning, and architectural consulting.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Historic Preservation program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with the essential tools, methods, and strategies for uncovering and conserving the past. Through foundational courses, students will delve into building conservation, architectural forensics, and contemporary preservation issues. The core curriculum expands upon these concepts, exploring diverse architectural histories, sustainable design principles, and the economic aspects of preservation, including urban revitalization and adaptive reuse. Students can further specialize through elective options covering topics such as green materials, historic interiors, and advanced GIS, culminating in a master's thesis to demonstrate their mastery of the field.

1 Foundation Courses: 12 credits

Uncovering the past: Tools, methods & strategies
Building conservation & assessment
Architectural forensics & documentation
Issues in contemporary preservation

2 Core Curriculum: 21 Credits

Restoration & rehabilitation of modernist buildings
American architecture
Vernacular architecture
Introduction to geographic information systems
Preservation economics: Urban revitalization, adaptive reuse, & historic neighborhoods
Principles & methods of sustainable design
Adaptive reuse & urban revitalization

3 Sample Elective Options: 9 credits

Adaptive design
Green materials & life cycle assessment
HABS photography
Conservation of historic interiors
Public-private partnerships
Affordable housing
Advanced geographic information systems
Study abroad, Anhalt University, Dessau, Germany

4 Master's Thesis: 7 credits

Thesis preparation
Thesis

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 36,260.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 36,260.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 72,520.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 3,600.00 - USD 5,400.00
Transport USD 840.00 - USD 1,440.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,040.00
Estimated Total USD 5,640.00 - USD 8,880.00

Living cost estimates are based on East Falls Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

97%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Civil & Infrastructure EngineeringConstruction Technology & Digital SolutionsEarly Childhood & Primary EducationEdTech & E-LearningEducational Support ServicesEnvironmental & Sustainable ConstructionHigher Education & UniversitiesIndustrial & Offshore ConstructionReal Estate DevelopmentResidential Construction

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Cyma Builders & Construction Managers

EDA Contractors, Inc.

LF Driscoll

Thomas Jefferson University

Why Study Historic Preservation (M.S.) at Thomas Jefferson University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

Thomas Jefferson University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Thomas Jefferson University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Historic Preservation (M.S.) at Thomas Jefferson University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks without a separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For English proficiency, acceptable tests include Duolingo with an overall score of 115, TOEFL with an overall score of 80, IELTS with a minimum score of 6.5, and PTE with an overall score of 53.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Job titles include Historic Preservation Consultant, Conservation Architect, and Urban Planner.

What will I actually study in this course?

Meet the Challenges of Tomorrow – Preserve the Past to Shape the Future

Today, Historic Preservation is a major force both in maintaining our cultural heritage and in shaping the neighborhoods and cities of tomorrow.

Jefferson’s MS in Historic Preservation not only prepares graduates to preserve historic buildings and sites, but also to reenvision and repurpose the past to serve present and future needs. The program focuses upon the conservation and the rehabilitation of the

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Historic Preservation M.S. program has two intake months: January and September. Be sure to apply in advance to secure your spot.
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
 
Account
  • New student?

Search for universities & courses

ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️