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MBA In Real Estate: Courses And Career Paths – Forbes Advisor – Forbes

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Earning a master of business administration (MBA) in real estate prepares you for career opportunities in the real estate industry. This degree equips learners with foundational knowledge and fundamental leadership, which are necessary business skills for a career in real estate.

This article covers general admission requirements, typical coursework and career options after earning an MBA in real estate.

Admission Requirements for an MBA in Real Estate

Admission requirements for an MBA in real estate vary among programs. Generally, applicants must complete and meet the following requirements:

  • Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
  • Complete business prerequisites courses, including economics, accounting, finance, marketing and statistics.
  • Meet a minimum GPA.
  • Submit all postsecondary academic transcripts.
  • Submit a resume or CV.
  • Write a personal statement or admission essay.
  • Submit letters of recommendation.
  • Submit GRE or GMAT scores.
  • Complete an interview.

Part-Time vs. Full-Time MBA Options

Students applying for MBA programs can often choose between part-time and full-time enrollment. Full-time enrollment typically suits students with less professional experience or who are willing and able to commit lots of time each week to coursework.

Part-time study offers more flexibility for working students. Part-time learners typically take fewer courses each semester than full-time students. Some programs offer classes scheduled during evenings and weekends.

MBA in Real Estate Courses

Coursework for an MBA in real estate varies by program. Below are examples of course titles and topics included in the curriculum for an MBA in real estate.

Housing Markets

This course examines the relationship between economics and the housing market. Students learn how supply and demand affect the housing market, including price dynamics and cycles.

Urban Real Estate Economics

This course explores urban economic processes and theories, including determinants of urban growth. Students learn about urban real estate markets by applying economic models and methods. They examine concepts such as:

  • Real estate cycles
  • Commercial real estate
  • Characteristics and determinants of real estate markets
  • Determinants of urban structure
  • Patterns of land use
  • Land market regulation
  • Homeownership
  • Local public finance

Real Estate Law

In courses on real estate law, students learn traditional property law concepts, the fundamentals of real estate finance and development and the transactional components of real estate business. Course topics include:

  • Leasing
  • Management
  • Investment
  • Development
  • Land acquisition
  • Disposition of real estate property
  • Foreclosures/Negotiations
  • Tax implications

Students develop the knowledge and skills necessary to understand the laws governing their properties. They also learn to apply legal concepts in real estate transactional settings. Additionally, courses cover environmental compliance and zoning requirements when planning new developments.

Real Estate Investment

Real estate investment courses focus on investment and financing-related topics. Students learn about project evaluation, capital and real estate markets, financing strategies, investment decisions and risks. This course gives students the foundational knowledge and skills to make informed real estate investment decisions and assess the impact of financing and capital markets tools used in real estate.

Career Options for an MBA in Real Estate Graduate

Real Estate Manager

Median Annual Salary: $59,230

Projected Job Growth (2020-2030): +3%

Job Description: Real estate managers are in charge of the operational aspects of residential and commercial properties. They maintain properties and work to increase property value. Their responsibilities include preparing financial statements; negotiating contractor, supplier and vendor contracts; and supervising staff members and maintenance workers.

Financial Analyst

Median Annual Salary: $81,410

Projected Job Growth (2020-2030): +6%

Job Description: Financial analysts track a company’s financial performance and analyze financial reports and market conditions to predict outcomes for business decisions. They study bonds, stocks and commodities. These professionals also use data-driven insight to identify trends and assess risks to help their clients make strategic financial and investment decisions.

Real Estate Appraiser

Median Annual Salary: $61,340

Projected Job Growth (2020-2030): +4%

Job Description: Real estate appraisers assess and estimate the value of residential and commercial land and properties before they’re sold, mortgaged, taxed, insured or developed. They consider the intended use of the property; analyze the characteristics of a site, architectural quality and its surrounding location; and compare properties to create appraisal reports.

Asset Manager

Median Annual Salary: $59,230

Projected Job Growth (2020-2030): +3%

Job Description: Asset managers conduct risk analyses, prepare financial reports and develop strategies to optimize asset growth for their clients. Their responsibilities include:

  • Researching relevant markets to identify trends and patterns
  • Monitoring asset performance
  • Reviewing policies to make recommendations for adjustments
  • Developing strategies to increase return on investment and minimize risk and loss

Frequently Asked Questions About an MBA in Real Estate

What are the requirements for an MBA in real estate?

Requirements for an MBA in real estate vary depending on the institution and program. In most cases, applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree or have completed specified prerequisite courses.

Do I need a real estate license if I have an MBA?

Most states require real estate agents to take a certain number of real estate courses to earn their licenses. Earning an MBA does not automatically qualify you to practice real estate, but it may help you meet the educational requirements to obtain licensure.

Is an MBA good for working in real estate?

An MBA can equip you with the foundational knowledge needed to work in real estate. In an MBA program, students develop managerial and leadership skills to help them navigate their careers in real estate.


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