The recognition and enhancement of architectural and urban heritage have become increasingly important in Algeria through new legislation and growing awareness of heritage loss on the one hand, and the widening gap between architectural production and cultural identity references on the other. The Master’s program in “Rehabilitation of Architectural Heritage and Historic Buildings” aims to prepare students for the realities of project management and project ownership in rehabilitation projects involving historic buildings. These projects have recently been launched throughout the country in response to the urgent need identified by the State to preserve and rehabilitate the large stock of housing dating from the Ottoman and colonial periods.

This program stems from the recognition that it has become essential to train architects specialized in the rehabilitation and adaptive reuse of historic buildings, while contributing to the revitalization of historic centers and settlements. Such interventions must respect heritage values and ensure their continuity while addressing contemporary issues related to sustainability, conservation, and environmental protection.

Drawing upon Master’s programs in Architecture as well as the traditional architectural education system, the program is organized into two stages:

First Year:
The first year provides pre-specialization and gradual orientation. It focuses on the fundamental teachings of architectural heritage and rehabilitation through the study of concepts and legislation governing national architectural heritage and historic buildings. Students deepen their theoretical knowledge and acquire the basic skills required for intervention in the fields of heritage conservation and rehabilitation.

Second Year:
The second year is devoted to specialization, enabling students to deepen their knowledge and develop their skills in response to the needs of the socio-economic environment. The Master’s program in Rehabilitation of Architectural Heritage and Historic Buildings emphasizes techniques and methods related to rehabilitation projects initiated jointly by the housing and cultural sectors through final-year projects. Furthermore, students are introduced to scientific research through the preparation of their final dissertation.

Upon completion of the program, students will have:

• Acquired the professional competencies necessary to manage architectural projects related to the rehabilitation, renewal, and sustainability of architectural heritage and historic buildings.

• Developed and strengthened the theoretical foundations required for the production of knowledge concerning the rehabilitation, heritage recognition, and management of historic building stock.

• Mastered the principles, intervention techniques, and management methods related to the conservation and rehabilitation of architectural heritage, particularly historic buildings, while addressing their relationship with sustainable development.