Historic Preservation, MSD
The one-year Master of Science in Design with a concentration in Historic Preservation (MSD-HP) complements Weitzman School’s long-standing two-year MSHP degree.The MSD-HP directly addresses the needs of practicing design professionals seeking post-professional training, specialization, or change in career path.The MSD-HP curriculum requires 10 CUs and spans one calendar year – two full-time semesters. Half of the required courses are elective; personalized curricula can accommodate advanced thesis research or additional studios. Applicants must possess a professional degree in design or planning fields (architecture, landscape architecture, interior architecture, urban planning, urban design, engineering) from an accredited university, and at least three years of professional experience.
For more information: https://www.design.upenn.edu/historic-preservation/about
The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2026 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.
Curriculum
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| HSPV 5210 | The American Built Environment | 1 |
| HSPV 6240A | Digital Media for Historic Preservation | 0.5 |
| HSPV 6240B | Digital Media for Historic Preservation | 0.5 |
| HSPV 6400 | Contemporary Design in Historic Settings | 1 |
| HSPV 6600 | Theories of Historic Preservation | 0.5 |
| HSPV 6610 | Theories of Historic Preservation II | 0.5 |
| HSPV 7210 | Historic Preservation Capstone Studio | 2 |
| HSPV Elective: Attribute FMHP 1 | 2 | |
| Open Electives 2 | 2 | |
| Total Course Units | 10 | |
- 1
HSPV 7010 can substitute for two electives.
- 2
HSPV Thesis can substitute for 2 course units.
Plan of Study
| First Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Course Units | |
| HSPV 5210 | The American Built Environment | 1 |
| HSPV 6240A | Digital Media for Historic Preservation | 0.5 |
| HSPV 6600 | Theories of Historic Preservation | 0.5 |
| HSPV 6400 | Contemporary Design in Historic Settings | 1 |
| HSPV Elective: Attribute FMHP 1 | 1 | |
| Open Elective 1 | 1 | |
| Course Units | 5.00 | |
| Spring | ||
| HSPV 6610 | Theories of Historic Preservation II | 0.5 |
| HSPV 6240B | Digital Media for Historic Preservation | 0.5 |
| HSPV 7210 | Historic Preservation Capstone Studio | 2 |
| HSPV Elective: Attribute FMHP 1 | 1 | |
| Open Elective 2 | 1 | |
| Course Units | 5.00 | |
| Total Course Units | 10.00 | |
- 1
HSPV 7010 can substitute for 2 electives.
- 2
HSPV Thesis can substitute for 2 course units.
The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2026 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.