The three primary areas of study are:

Research and Documentation
 
Conservation theory – a cultural landscape approach to understanding and transforming historic places

Historic research methods – oral and documentary research, identifying social value, sources

Archaeological research – theoretical and legislative framework, field work, analysis

Architectural history – high style and vernacular architecture, traditions, technologies, styles

Landscape history – aboriginal approaches, urban and rural landscapes, gardens

Documentation – measured drawings, hand-drawing, AutoCAD, architectural photography

Field investigations – condition analysis, identifying and dating, reporting


Design and Project Management

Statements of significance – identifying historical, physical and social value, designation requirements

Historic structures report – compiling research and documentation findings

Conservation plan – preservation, restoration, rehabilitation and adaptive reuse, contemporary design

Business models – real estate practice, the restoration economy

Legal and zoning issues – heritage legislation, building codes, zoning bylaws

Energy systems – traditional and alternative theory and practice, sustainable design


Craft skills

Stone and mortar – basic geology, quarrying, stone dressing and coursing, lime mortars, conservation

Plaster – materials, applications, plain and decorative plaster, cast plaster, conservation, replication

Wood – species, milling, traditional and alternative tools, carpentry, joinery, doors, windows, repair

Metals – forge practice, ironwork, sheet metal work, metal repair

Glass – leaded and stained glass windows, glass replacement, repair and restoration

Fittings – hardware, traditional and contemporary lighting

Conservation science – basic chemistry, temperature and humidity, artifact care