Graduate Certificate in Historic Preservation
Who is this program for?
A graduate certificate in Historic Preservation is ideal for individuals passionate about preserving cultural heritage, architectural history, and historical sites, and who wish to gain specialized knowledge in restoration techniques and conservation practices. Graduates often pursue careers as preservationists, cultural resource managers, or architectural consultants, working with government agencies, non-profits, or private firms to protect and maintain historic buildings, landscapes, and landmarks.
Program Overview
Blend a love of the past with your future. Designed for working professionals and graduate students in related fields, the certificate can be taken exclusively online, through classes at the University of Kentucky campus in Lexington, or with a combination of online and in-person courses. The Graduate Certificate in Historic Preservation examines the history and theory of preservation and provides training in architectural history, revitalization, adaptive reuse, and preservation policy.
Related Careers
This certificate helps architects, planners, engineers, and other professionals expand their knowledge and develop specialized areas of practice.
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What You'll Learn
As a graduate of the program, you will be able to:
- Draw upon the history of American architecture and landscape design in making informed choices about the care, maintenance, and revitalization of historic properties
- Facilitate community discussions about the social and cultural significance of historic buildings and sites
- Navigate local, state, and federal historic preservation laws
- Employ design practices appropriate to adaptive reuse and tax-advantaged rehabilitation projects
The certificate consists of two required courses and two electives. Courses on architectural history, preservation planning, cultural resource management, and sustainable development are routinely offered.
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Admission Requirements
Please view the Graduate School's Admission Requirements. If there are Program Specific Requirements listed below, those will also apply.
Application Requirements
Please view the application requirements for the Graduate School. If there are Program Specific Requirements listed below, those will also apply.
Application Deadlines
Domestic
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Fall
- 07/25/2025
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Spring
- 12/12/2025
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Summer
- 04/18/2026
International
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Fall
- 04/15/2025
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Spring
- 09/15/2025

Explore Funding Options
As a graduate student, there are additional opportunities for student funding. Once you are admitted into a degree-bearing graduate program at UK, you can apply for a wide variety of financial assistance, including assistantships and fellowships. These opportunities can be tied to your program’s availability, so you should inquire with your program director about opportunities available within your program!

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