Historic Preservation BA/BSc

Historic Preservation is the study and practice of identifying, protecting, and maintaining buildings, monuments, and sites of historical and cultural significance. It combines elements of architecture, history, urban planning, and conservation science to ensure that heritage assets are preserved for future generations.

A Bachelor’s degree in Historic Preservation equips students with the knowledge and technical skills needed to document, assess, and restore historic structures. It explores how preservation supports community identity, sustainable development, and cultural continuity, balancing the past with modern needs.

Why Study Historic Preservation?

There are many reasons why students choose to study Historic Preservation:

• A passion for history, architecture, and the built environment.

  
  

• Opportunities to work on real conservation projects and heritage sites.

  
  

• A multidisciplinary blend of design, construction, and cultural studies.

  
  

• The chance to contribute to sustainable urban regeneration and heritage protection.

  
  

• Strong career prospects in planning, heritage management, and conservation consultancy.

  
  

• Engagement with professional organisations such as Historic England and the National Trust.

This degree suits students who are observant, analytical, and dedicated to protecting historical and cultural assets.

Course Duration and Structure

In the UK, a BA or BSc in Historic Preservation typically takes three years of full-time study, or four years with a placement year, foundation year, or study abroad option.

A typical course structure includes:

Year 1: Introduction to heritage studies, architectural history, and conservation principles. Students explore the cultural, social, and political contexts of preservation.

Year 2: Intermediate study in building pathology, heritage legislation, and documentation methods. Practical work includes surveying and analysing historic sites.

Year 3: Advanced modules in heritage management, sustainable preservation, and conservation science. The final year often includes a dissertation or applied project on a specific building or heritage site.

Field trips, workshops, and placements with heritage organisations are integral parts of many courses.

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements vary between universities but typically include one of the following:

• A Levels: In History, Geography, Art, Design and Technology, or English.

  
  

• BTEC: A relevant Extended Diploma in Construction, Art and Design, or Environmental Studies.

  
  

• International Baccalaureate (IB): Including Humanities, Arts, or Social Science subjects.

  
  

• Other qualifications: Access to Higher Education Diploma in Humanities, Conservation, or Architecture.

  
  

• English language proficiency: Required for applicants whose first language is not English.

An interest in heritage, architecture, or conservation is advantageous, and some universities may request a short written statement or portfolio of relevant experience.

Teaching and Assessment

Historic Preservation degrees combine academic study with fieldwork and hands-on conservation experience. Students learn through:

• Lectures and seminars

  
  

• Fieldwork and site visits

  
  

• Practical conservation workshops

  
  

• Group projects and case studies

  
  

• Independent research and dissertation work

Assessment methods typically include:

• Essays and technical reports

  
  

• Heritage site assessments and surveys

  
  

• Group presentations and project work

  
  

• Reflective journals and portfolios

  
  

• A final dissertation or conservation research project

Many programmes include collaborations with professional heritage organisations such as Historic England, National Trust, or ICOMOS-UK.

Skills You Will Develop

A degree in Historic Preservation develops a combination of academic, technical, and professional skills, including:

• Building documentation and site analysis

  
  

• Knowledge of conservation materials and techniques

  
  

• Heritage policy and planning

  
  

• Project management and teamwork

  
  

• Critical thinking and problem-solving

  
  

• Research and report writing

  
  

• Visual communication and documentation

  
  

• Understanding of sustainability and adaptive reuse

These skills are highly transferable across the heritage, construction, and planning sectors.

Career Prospects

Graduates of Historic Preservation degrees are equipped for diverse careers within the heritage and construction industries.

Typical career paths include:

• Heritage or conservation officer

  
  

• Building conservation specialist

  
  

• Historic environment consultant

  
  

• Museum or archive curator

  
  

• Planning or policy advisor

  
  

• Architectural historian or researcher

  
  

• Project manager or preservation planner

• Further study in heritage conservation, architecture, or archaeology

Employers include local authorities, heritage trusts, museums, conservation firms, and organisations such as Historic England, National Trust, and Heritage Lottery Fund.

Tips for Prospective Students

• Visit heritage sites and historic buildings to gain practical understanding.

  
  

• Gain volunteer or internship experience with heritage or conservation organisations.

  
  

• Learn about UK heritage legislation and conservation principles.

  
  

• Develop research, photography, and documentation skills.

  
  

• Familiarise yourself with digital tools such as CAD or GIS for site analysis.

  
  

• Join professional bodies such as IHBC or ICOMOS-UK for networking and resources.

  
  

Course Variations

Universities offer several related and specialist degrees, including:

• Historic Preservation (BA/BSc): Core study of heritage protection and building conservation.

  
  

• Heritage Conservation: Emphasising cultural heritage management and sustainability.

  
  

• Architectural Conservation: Combining preservation with design and technical knowledge.

  
  

• Cultural Heritage and Management: Exploring the social and administrative aspects of heritage work.

  
  

• Historic Building Conservation: Focusing on restoration, repair, and reuse of historic structures.

  
  

• Museum and Heritage Studies: Concentrating on curation and interpretation of historic artefacts and sites.

  
  

• Urban Conservation and Regeneration: Linking heritage preservation with city planning and community development.

Recommended Wider Reading for Aspiring Historic Preservation Students

For those considering or beginning a degree in Historic Preservation, the following books and resources provide valuable background and insight:

• “Conservation of Historic Buildings” by Bernard Feilden – A classic text on preservation principles and methods.

  
  

• “Understanding Historic Building Conservation” by Michael Forsyth – A key guide to practical and theoretical aspects of conservation.

  
  

• “Preserving the World's Great Cities” by Anthony M. Tung – A study of global approaches to urban heritage.

  
  

• “Practical Building Conservation” series by Historic England – Detailed guidance on materials, structures, and conservation techniques.

  
  

• Historic England and National Trust – Resources on policy, best practice, and heritage careers.

  
  

• The Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC) – Professional body for heritage and conservation specialists.

  
  

• ICOMOS-UK – International network dedicated to cultural heritage preservation.