Analysis of Historical Structures OpenCourseWare: Free Graduate Level Architectural History Course by MIT

Published Jan 11, 2009

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'Analysis of Historical Structures' is a free graduate level course from MIT that investigates historical structures (bridges, domes, spirals and buildings) by construction materials (masonry, timber, metal and concrete). It is hoped that students, at the end of the class, will understand historic structures preservation. This class is suitable for students pursuing a Master of Architecture or Master of Science in Building Technology degree.

Analysis of Historical Structures: Course Specifics

Degree Level Free Audio Video Downloads
Graduate Yes No No Yes

Lectures/Notes Study Materials Tests/Quizzes
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Analysis of Historical Structures: Course Description

Although few modern buildings feature flying buttresses or gothic vaults, the knowledge of historical structures, gained through analysis, is important for preservation efforts. This free course covers the basic engineering and architectural principles of historical constructions, from masonry structures common in cathedrals to timber arches used by the ancient Romans. Professor John Ochsendorf teaches students to apply modern load-bearing and engineering analysis to historical architectural forms. This lecture class covers a wide range of history, from classical stone buildings to 20th century concrete structures. The class culminates in student presentations based on a historical structure research paper. This free OpenCourseWare is intended for students in an Architecture or Building Technology graduate program.

This architecture OpenCourseWare provides lecture notes, sample assignments and a list of readings. If historical structures are your thing, visit the historical structures analysis course page.