New degree is the first of its kind in the U.S.
The University of Maryland, College Park has approved the establishment of a Dual Degree Master’s Program in Applied Anthropology and Historic Preservation. A collaboration of the School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation and the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences, the new degree is a nod to the natural connections between the two disciplines and an increased demand for professionals knowledgeable in anthropology, preservation and cultural heritage. The new degree is the first of its kind in the United States.
“This new program grows out of a long-term relationship between Anthropology and Historic Preservation, building on the successes of Master of Applied Anthropology students who completed the Historic Preservation Certificate program,” said Dr. Donald Linebaugh, Director of the Historic Preservation Program and Associate Dean of the school. “In particular, the program will prepare cultural resource and heritage professionals for the challenges of understanding, documenting and saving a wide range buildings, landscapes, sites and communities.”
Despite many overlapping themes, applied anthropology and historic preservation are very specific in their scope; anthropologists traditionally focus on belowground resources and intangible heritage, while preservationists concentrate on the aboveground resources of the built and natural environments. Yet, as issues related to global heritage grow more complex, there is an increased demand for professionals who can transcend the multiple aspects of preservation and heritage. The new degree program will position students interested in pursuing a career in cultural heritage with a unique and competitive advantage; a comprehensive insight into both tangible heritage, such as architecture, artifacts and natural forms; and the intangible resources of society and culture. The experiential foundation offered by the two programs—including regional and international field studies, excavations and the use of LiDAR technology—offers the practical knowledge needed to succeed in an increasingly competitive global market.
“The new degree offers a unique program which will allow our graduates to build an impressive tool kit of courses and experience,” explained Paul Shackel, Chair of the Department of Anthropology. “Graduates from the program will be able to meet the needs of a changing cultural economy, offering a broader resume of expertise that also meets the requirements of local, state and federal governments.”
Previously, students pursing a Master of Applied Anthropology and a Master of Historic Preservation separately needed to satisfy 87 credits; the complementary missions of the two programs whittle the requirements for the new degree—which will be offered to current students immediately—down to a slim 66 credits. The dual degree will take full advantage of the diverse coursework offered at the School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation and in the Department of Anthropology, bringing together expertise in archaeology, vernacular architecture, ethnography, cultural resource management, heritage studies and social/cultural anthropology. The establishment of the dual degree forwards the university’s mission of continued educational development that fosters innovation and entrepreneurship, and addresses its commitment to reducing student debt and offering more affordable degree options.
“The new dual degree will help tomorrow’s professionals balance the importance of our history and heritage with the demands of an ever-changing world,” says David Cronrath, Dean of the School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation.
Individuals interested in applying should contact Laura Steeg with the Historic Preservation program or Nadine Dangerfield with the Anthropology Department for the particulars on how to proceed with an application