Historic Preservation

The Hines College’s Historic Preservation program offers graduate students the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by protecting cultural heritage through thoughtful design and planning.

Houston is a prime place to study historic preservation.

The city’s mix of architectural history, lack of traditional zoning, and vulnerability to climate challenges make it a living laboratory for preservation, adaptive reuse, and resilience. Through their studies in Historic Preservation, students will learn:

Core principles and theory of historic preservation
Legal, economic, and regulatory frameworks
Design and planning strategies that respect cultural heritage
Technical skills for long-term sustainability

Why Choose the Hines College?

Focus on Cultural Sustainability

Learn how architecture can support the long-term preservation of communities and their unique identities.
Interdisciplinary Training

Gain skills that apply across architecture, engineering, urban planning, public policy, and heritage management.
Real-World Experience

Complete a required internship (practicum or apprenticeship) with organizations involved in historic preservation with faculty guidance and support.
Expert Faculty

Learn from professors with expertise in sustainable design, urban planning, disaster resilience, world heritage management, and mid-century modern preservation.