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The field of historic preservation is constantly developing, centered on maintaining and overseeing our built surroundings while safeguarding cultural heritage in its broadest interpretation. Closely linked to regulations at local, state, and national levels, this discipline has grown significantly as both an academic pursuit and professional career since its origins in the mid-1800s when interest in conserving historical and cultural elements first emerged. Modern preservation professionals are employed across various sectors - from municipal, state, and federal agencies to museums, nonprofits, and private firms specializing in planning, architecture, and resource management. Today's preservationists are also playing a growing role in education, working with K-12 schools as well as higher education institutions. More than sixty U.S. colleges and universities now provide degree programs or specialized training in historic preservation.