Master of Applied Anthropology / Master of Historic Preservation in College Park United States | University of Maryland, College Park

The University of Maryland's combined Master's Program in Applied Anthropology and Historic Preservation offers an integrated approach to professional training in cultural resource research and heritage conservation. As the nation's first such dual degree, it equips students with the skills needed to address the growing need for expertise in documenting and protecting diverse structures, landscapes, archaeological sites, and communities. While applied anthropology and historic preservation each have distinct focuses, the program recognizes the rising complexity of global heritage issues by training professionals who can bridge these disciplines. This innovative program provides career-focused students with a distinctive edge, offering deep understanding of both physical heritage (including buildings, artifacts, and natural features) and intangible cultural elements. Through hands-on learning opportunities—such as domestic and international fieldwork, archaeological digs, and LiDAR technology applications—students gain practical skills essential for today's evolving global marketplace. By combining curricula from the School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation with the Department of Anthropology, the program integrates knowledge across archaeology, traditional architecture, ethnographic research, cultural resource management, and anthropological studies. This dual degree initiative reflects the University's dedication to educational innovation while providing cost-effective options to minimize student debt.