Various colleges have historic preservation studies that focus on covering the principles, techniques and concepts of architectural history, preservation and supporting documentation. The University of Virginia has its World Heritage Site, an interdisciplinary approach program that includes master's degree studies in architecture, history, landscaping, and urban development and environmental planning. Professionals are also offered the opportunity to expand their careers through specialized practice and ethics training. Graduate students may develop skills for preservation practitioner careers with agencies, firms and non-profits, as well as advocacy and non-governmental organizations.
The National Council for Preservation Education Guides showcases over fifty certificate, undergraduate and graduate historic preservation programs at various educational institutions to choose from, in and around the United States. The college programs focus on education for students with an eye toward professional careers involving state, local, federal and both governmental and non-governmental businesses and non-profit organizations in public and private sectors all over the world.
Colleges such as the Texas Tech College of Architecture offer a Certificate in Historic Preservation through its interdisciplinary program. The Historic Preservation Certificate is designed to prepare graduate students to enter leadership roles that relate to architectural historic preservation. Certificate programs typically specialize in offering practical knowledge and skills for an extensive understanding of the preservation of historic structures. The objectives include buildings from an array of traditional, natural and cultural environments. Also included in the balanced curriculum are classes in theory, history and technology.
Many colleges offer a Master of Science in Architecture, which includes historic architecture preservation studies, and a comprehensive course of study to emphasize the theory and practice of historic preservation. Graduate programs can also include a chance to participate in professional internships and extensive research projects across the nation.
Historic preservation programs generally feature the study of architectural history, theory, preservation and preservation technology. Some colleges offer a program with comprehensive course work, including a written thesis. Graduate students may obtain a certificate of specialization through other core studies within historic preservation programs.