August 29, 2005—The American College of the Building Arts in Charleston, S.C., has welcomed its inaugural class of students. The newest college in South Carolina is the first ever in American history to be licensed to offer a degree in one of the traditional building arts.
With the successful completion of their studies, which include the liberal arts general education requirements (English, Math, History, etc.), students of the College will receive either an Associate’s or a Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Sciences. Students will major in one of the six traditional building trades: architectural metal, architectural stone, carpentry, masonry, plaster working, or timber framing.
According to the college, The American College of the Building Arts provides a focused liberal arts education and trains new generations of artisans in the traditional building arts to foster exceptional craftsmanship and encourage the preservation, enrichment and appreciation of our architectural heritage. The College operates in three locations: the historic Old City Jail in downtown Charleston, the Noisette Campus at the former Charleston naval base and the future permanent home being created on the nearby 330+-year-old McLeod Plantation. All three sites offer the students and faculty the chance to work together in a living laboratory that encompasses history and beauty. For more information, visit the College Web site.
