The Undergraduate Certificate in Historic Preservation is a four-course (12 credit hour) program that introduces students to the history, theory, and practice of historic preservation. The certificate is designed to enrich the educational experience of all undergraduates at the university. It is particularly suitable to students majoring in architecture, interiors, history, anthropology, and geography, but the interdisciplinary nature of the field and its widespread application make it relevant to a wide range of majors.
The Department of Historic Preservation takes an expansive approach to preservation education, viewing it as an essential part of global citizenship and a means of introducing knowledge vital for success in many professions and informed participation in civil society. The certificate curriculum takes advantage of faculty expertise in architectural history, critical analysis of built environments, community planning and design, historical research and documentation, and sustainability. Courses emphasize the interdisciplinary application of preservation knowledge; the social, cultural, and economic value of historic buildings and landscapes; the role of preservation in sustainability and social justice; and the importance of heritage in a globalized world.
The certificate curriculum is designed to develop basic knowledge of preservation practice and theory, and help students see connections with their major fields of study. Students apply for the certificate after taking HP 101 : Historic Preservation: How the Past Informs the Future. Two core courses are required: HP 252 : Adaptive Reuse and Treatments for Historic Buildings and HP 300 : Sustainability and the Built World. Thereafter, students select two courses from a wide range of electives. The overall program seeks to develop general knowledge of historic preservation and appreciation of its role in diverse and dynamic societies.
Admission
Undergraduate students who wish to pursue the certificate must have a minimum 2.75 grade-point average and must maintain a 3.0 grade-point average in certificate courses. Course work taken more than four (4) years before admission to the certificate may not be applied to the certificate. Students must meet all prerequisite requirements for certificate courses. Students may apply to the certificate upon completing HP 101 , which does not count toward certificate requirements but provides foundational knowledge. Students then take HP 252 , two electives, and HP 300 . Students will be advised to take HP 300 as their final course or in the same semester as their final elective(s). An exit exam will be administered in HP 300 . Students must earn a C or higher to complete the certificate. Students will be allowed to retake the exam if needed.
Post-baccalaureate and non-degree-seeking students will be admitted upon submitting a statement of 1,000 words or less explaining the reasons for their interest in pursuing the certificate
Curriculum
Students may apply to the certificate after completing HP 101 - HISTORIC PRESERVATION: HOW THE PAST INFORMS THE FUTURE . As a 100-level class, HP 101 does not count toward certificate requirements but provides fundamental knowledge that students need before proceeding to more advanced classes. Once a student is accepted into the certificate program, he or she must take the following Core Courses:
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