Bachelor of Science in Historic Preservation

Learn current practices related to cultural heritage and community-based preservation with the Bachelor of Science in Historic Preservation​ in the Tyler School of Art and Architecture at Temple University. This 122-credit undergraduate degree program represents a research-based design field that begins with the Foundations Program for the first two years of study before concentrating on preservation theory and practice in the student’s third and fourth years. 

The Historic Preservation Major focuses on historical and cultural research practices related to design and offers a comprehensive introduction to historic preservation and the agencies and frameworks within which preservation is carried out locally, nationally and internationally. This is a bachelor’s program that develops student knowledge through case study review and is well-suited for students interested in research and the application of architectural and historical knowledge. 

With guidance from an accomplished faculty of design practitioners and innovators and access to top-notch resources at Temple, you’ll acquire knowledge and skills to address the timely global topics of accessibility, climate change and equity.

Students undertake an in-depth capstone research investigation of a selected case study to employ research methods utilized in preservation. Dedicated group work areas, woodshop, digital fabrication and digital lab spaces allow for in-house research drawing, modeling and digital visualization. 

Hands-on Learning

​Students in the Historic Preservation Major work both individually and in groups to carry out original research guided by architects, historians and preservationists. Students use the Philadelphia region to conduct archival and on-site investigations into the material and cultural fabric of the built environment. 

Foundations

All undergraduate first-year students at Tyler begin with a yearlong immersion in our foundations program. Foundations is a multidisciplinary curriculum through which students gain knowledge in essential concepts and theories; established principles and practices; and time-honored skills and techniques in the study of art, design and the built environment. Students develop a global understanding of artistic traditions and the role of art and design in society before choosing a major in their second year at Tyler.

In the art programs, including graphic and interactive design, students begin with focused study of drawing, 2D design and 3D design. They explore diverse materials, processes and perspectives—from the traditional and low-tech to the innovative and experimental. This bachelor's degree program is highly structured and intensive, and imparts fundamental studio practices for all visual art. Through the foundations coursework, students gain an academic grounding in the forms, techniques, styles, subjects and symbolism represented in art, architecture and design. Faculty members from across the art and design areas teach the foundations courses, assuring a broad range of experience and diverse viewpoints.

Learn more about the foundations program at Tyler.

Classes & Curriculum  

Develop applied research and design skills while studying the diverse urban context of Philadelphia with the Historic Preservation Major. Examples of coursework include the following classes. 

  • Architectural History 
  • Global Preservation Practice
  • Research Methods for Historic Preservation 
  • Sustainability and Architecture 
  • Visual Literacy for Architects 

Learn more about the coursework for the Historic Preservation Major.

Minors 

Historic Preservation Major can expand on their coursework with a variety of minors that deepen their understanding of the history of artistic practice and the relationship between the built and natural environments, ecological planning and preservation, and protection of landscape resources. Minors include the following.​

Related Graduate Degrees  

Tuition & Fees

In keeping with Temple’s commitment to access and affordability, the Bachelor of Science offers a competitive level of tuition with multiple opportunities for financial support.

Tuition rates are set annually by the university and are affected by multiple factors, including program degree level (undergraduate or graduate), course load (full- or part-time), in-state or out-of-state residency, and more. You can view the full Cost of Attendance breakdown on the Student Financial Services website.

These tuition costs apply to the 2023–2024 academic year.

Pennsylvania resident: $17,976.00 per year
Out-of-state: $32,376.00 per year

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Additional Program Information