MBA Programs in Real Estate

Whether you just want to focus on locally based real estate issues or start a global real estate and development enterprise one step in the right direction can be getting your MBA in real estate. It can be a great career booster for those already working in the real estate field and an illuminating experience for those looking to make the switch. In other words, if you’re already a member of the National Association of Realtors and you’re already listed in the official real estate agents directory, this might be a way to separate yourself from the pack. Youíll learn the skills you’ll need to work with the changes currently happening in the real estate market as well as being prepared to work with any future changes that might occur.

With a majority of programs taking 18-24 months to complete, finishing an MBA is no small feat. New programs that offer weekend classes and accelerated study can help those who want to work while attaining their degrees to do so more easily, however. Students should be prepared to take a range of general business courses that will help them emerge well rounded from the program, even with a concentration in real estate. Specialized coursework can include topics like real estate law, development and finance, estate economics, urban fiscal policy, policy and private development, international real estate markets and the aesthetic considerations of architecture. The combination of these general courses with more specific ones should produce graduates who are able to work skillfully on issues related to development, finance, investment, valuation, law and the regulatory environment and urban land economics.

While the real estate market has unstable in some places, in others itís still flourishing, with low prices for land and buildings driving a healthy investment market. Those looking to work in real estate will find that there are still many opportunities out there for success upon graduation. Possible career paths can include upper level management at large real estate firms, starting your own real estate investment business, and a variety of specialty positions within the real estate market. Salaries for this kind of work can vary widely, and are often based partially on the overall success of the company involved. For that reason, it’s tough to create an estimate as some people will be pulling in salaries that are six figures and above, while others will make more modest amounts working in a different and possibly less risky market.