Master of Science in Historic Preservation
Program Information
The Master of Science in Historic Preservation (MSHP) is a 45 credit hour program, usually completed in 15 or 18 months (three regular semesters and possibly part or all of one summer). It is designed to accommodate the background and needs of both those
students with substantial experience and those new to the field. The course of study is for students seeking training in spatial, technical and design aspects of the broader field; it encompasses architecture, cultural landscapes, preservation, planning,
building technology, project management, documentation, interpretation and representation.
Historic preservationists come from a variety of backgrounds. Some are well-educated in the humanities and desire to increase their technical understanding. Those familiar with the social sciences might be seeking “real world” applications for their expertise. Many already with “first professional degrees” in design and planning disciplines, as well as law and business, seek to deepen their competence in the vibrant and interesting professional niche of historic preservation. Our program is compliant with National Council of Preservation Education Standards.
Historic Preservation Contacts
Program Highlights
Field-Based Learning
CAP offers multiple opportunities for Maymester and summer travel study. Some of these are particularly useful for historic preservation students.
Independent Studies
Faculty members are open to proposals from students for a topic of study not regularly offered in the curriculum. Typically, the student will suggest a topic and together with the faculty tutor develop a work plan and evaluation strategy.
Research Assistantships
Opportunities exist for students to engage in paid research assistantships with the college’s Center of Preservation Research (CoPR).
Curriculum
The course of study for the Master of Science in Historic Preservation is designed to accommodate the background and needs of both those students with substantial experience and those new to the field.
The curriculum is flexible but rigorous, requiring a total of 45 semester hours to complete:
| Course Type | Semester Hours Required |
| Core Courses in Preservation | 15 semester hours |
| Approved Core Design History Courses | 6 semester hours |
| Capstone Requirement | 9 semester hours |
| Electives | 15 semester hours |
Students receiving significant transfer credit and those with a related degree may further reduce the time required for the MS in Historic Preservation degree and should work with an academic advisor to confirm.
Our program is compliant with National Council of Preservation Education Standards.
Travel Study Opportunities
Admissions
Students admitted into this program must have completed a Bachelor’s degree before they will be able to begin this program. An official conferred degree transcript is required by the university. For additional information, please see Graduate School Policies and Procedures.
Application to the Master of Science in Historic Preservation program is open to all students holding the bachelor's (undergraduate) degree from an accredited college (or its equivalent from a foreign institution).
Tuition & Fees
The University of Colorado Denver has one of the most affordable tuition rates in Colorado. Our tuition and fees are set by the Board of Regents, the governing body of the University of Colorado. Tuition is based on student classification (undergraduate, graduate, academic program, resident or nonresident) and you can find out what rates will apply to your situation here.
All CAP Graduate Programs have WICHE-WRGP (Western Regional Graduate Program) status, which grants in-state resident tuition to students from 15 western states including California, Washington, Oregon and Arizona.